Fall Fashion 2012

Here are some fun new trend ideas to try for Fall!!


Fall is my favorite time of year for fashion! I love the boots, scarves, leather... so many accessorizing options!

There are some great new trends coming out this fall, be sure to try:



Peplum tops-These figure enhancing tops are a ladylike addition to any wardrobe, great paired with pencil skirts or skinny jeans!

Waxy jeans-Wax coated jeans are the new trend for denim this fall. You'll see all kinds of colors, finishes, from metallics to patterns. Try basic black for a sexy almost leather look, pair with a fun going out top or blazer!

Booties-Western inspired booties are the trend for footwear, along with rugged hiker inspired booties, and basically all the trends we saw last year. Pair with anything from jeans to skirts, these are very versatile.

High Low Hems!

High low skirts and dresses are the new trend! It's a dramatic new way to experiment with your hemline. Try this look in a flowy skirt paired with a slim fitted tank and sandals or in a belted dress. You can't go wrong with this trend so go ahead and rock it! Happy Shopping

Wedding Season-What to Wear!

Wedding season is upon us and we will all be wondering what to wear! Should you drag out your old frock you wear every year? Should you buy new? What does the attire mean you should wear? No fear, I am here to answer those questions and make sure you look your best!

1) You never want to wear a dress to a wedding everyone has already seen you in, but if your budget is a little tight figure out how you can spruce up a dress you already own so it looks new! Try adding a belt! If you have a floral dress try adding a cute brown leather woven belt, if you have a great sheath dress add a stretchy waist belt. Jewelry can make any dress look different. Try wearing a basic dress and really play it up with bold statement pieces. Think black dress (yes black is ok to wear to weddings now) with turquoise jewelry or green with gold! Simply accessorizing basic dresses will totally change the look of any dress.

2) Confused about what the attire on the invitation means? Let's break it down:

White Tie-The most formal of all wedding dress codes-Think Oscars! Go for a formal, full-length ball gown in a neutral palette. Go all out glam with hair and jewelry! Men wear tuxedos with tails.

Black Tie: This means tuxedos for men, long evening gowns for women, very dressy cocktail dresses are also appropriate.

Formal/Black Tie Optional: Daytime/Evening-This is a looser version of black tie so suits as well as tuxedos will work, evening gowns and cocktail dresses are acceptable.

Semi-Formal: A suit with a tie, cocktail dresses/nice tops with skirts or for daytime lighter weight fabrics and light colors are more suitable.

Informal/Casual-Think khaki's and sundresses! Jeans are off limits unless the invitation specifically mentions they are ok.

Don't wear anything too loud or flashy, think overly bold patterns or sequins. Be sure to dress appropriately, nothing club worthy. If the invitation does not specify attire, play it safe with a cocktail dress.

Come into LUXE today and we will help you find a great "guest of wedding" dress!

SPRING TRENDS 2012!

So after pouring over all the style magazines, I've chosen my top "Must Have" trends for Spring!
I'm not super excited about a lot of the trends this Spring but I think that's because Fall fashion is my favorite but in any case I'm making the best of it and updating my closet!

1) Mint Green! The subdued hue is all the rage right now! I like this color in a dress or in an accessory, personally I'm going to invest in a mint green clutch! (Asos.com)

2) Color Block! Ok so this isn't new but it's definitely a trend that's transcending into this season as well so be sure you're on board. You can find this trend in basically anything, I like that this season you see it incorporated in shoes and handbags. I also like that it's pretty easy to "color block" with the wardrobe you have right now; think a royal blue skirt with a bright colored orange or hot pink top! (Jessica Simpson-Macy's.com)

3) NEON, NEON! From highlighter yellow 7 for all Mankind jeans to tops and shoes, anything goes here. But warning! A little goes a LONG way! You don't want to go too 80's with this one. For me, I'm going with the 7 For All Mankind neon yellow crop jeans and I'm already thinking I'm going to style it with some kind of gray top or jacket... (LUXE)

4) Large "DAY" Clutches! I love, love, love these! So chic and ladylike! The clutches resembling envelopes are my must-have! Try these in any color! Or two; )

AT LUXE we will feature a lot of the trends of talked about here, so be sure to stop in!!

HAPPY SHOPPING!

New Year, New You!

Time to clean out the ol' closet!

Here are some suggestions for starting the new year out right:

1) Color coordinate your closet. This will help elimate time spent looking for clothing items.

2) Order clothes from long sleeve to short or winter to summer. Again, this eliminates wasted time spent finding a top or pants. Catagorize clothes, put all sweaters together, jeans together, jackets etc.

3) Do invest in shoe, belt, scarf, and jewelry organizers.

4) Try on everything in your closet! If you haven't worn it in the last year chances are, you probably won't!
If something doesn't fit quite right but you really like it, assess whether you can alter it so you'll actually wear it! Create a "keep", "maybe", and "donate" pile. Try and create outfits as you go, if you haven't worn something in a while it may be because you have nothing to go with it. Start writing down a list of items you need to purchase to create outfits or replace.

Denim Fit Guide!

Hey ladies, one of the most dreaded or for me fun; ) tasks is jean shopping! You may struggle with where to even start with so many choices of styles and washes it can be overwhelming so here's an idea of where to start:

First, determine what body style you have. Then determine the styles that will most likely flatter your figure. Then decide what kind of wash you would like.

Curvy: If you're an hourglass or a pear shape. You have full hips and maybe full thighs with a tiny mid section.
Your problem-you might find that you have trouble getting jeans wide enough for your thighs and then find that when you do the waist is too big.
Solution/Goal- You may find you want to slim and balance your proportions. The best jean types for you are: Bootcut, Trouser fit, Wide leg, or Flares. A bit of a wider flare at the bottom will balance out your fuller hips and make you look shapely. Try and find jeans with a slightly higher rise and some stretch to solve your "too big in the waist" dilemma. At LUXE we can custom alter your waist so you get the perfect fit. Avoid washes that are lighter in the hip area or whiskered. Darker washes will give you a slimming effect.

Petite: If you're 5'4" and slim you are probably a petite.
Your problem-You may find that you are always having to hem your pants and everything is too long and/or too large for your body.
Solution/Goal-Try and seek out "petite" cuts! They do exist, premium denim makers make lengths more appropriate for your height and not only that, the whole jean is in better proportions ie. knee cuts are in the right spots. You may consider lower rises, as you probably have a shorter torso. Try straight leg or skinny jeans as they don't require as much alteration in the length. Avoid crops or anything too wide, you want to give the appearance of being taller. At LUXE we can alter any jean to fit our petite ladies.

Athletic/Boyish: If you lack curves and have a more square body shape.
Your problem: Lack of curves or looking too thin.
Solution/Goal: Try highlighting any curves you may have by wearing skinny jeans, straight leg jeans, or flares. Try lighter washes or washes with fading as these will enhance your bottom and hip area.

Tall: If you're tall you your shape probably falls into one of the previous categories, your other consideration will be that you have trouble finding jeans long enough. Try "Super model length" a new cut from premium denim makers that have 36" inseams or longer!

Pocket Guide:
Flap- will enhance smaller backsides.
High-drawa the bottom upwards.
Far apart-wide set give the appearance of wider hips.
Low pockets-draw the eye down , may make tush look bigger.
No pockets-No, no.

The Holidays are here! Now what to wear?!

Dinner with friends- I like a tie neck blouse with some trousers or even wide leg jeans if your gathering is casual. Try a color block tie neck blouse for a twist!

Holiday office party-For an office party keep it festive but appropriate, a skirt with a blazer or try opaque patterned tights with dressy shorts and a cowl neck sweater!

Cocktail party-For cocktail parties I'm all about the sequins! Try small sequins sewn closely together, they tend to look more expensive!

Formal event-Go bold with a jewel tone! If you're really brave top it off with a fur bolero!

Day off/Christmas shopping-I love fair isle patterns. Pair a fairisle sweater with skinny jeans, riding boots, and a scarf!

FALL FABULOUS!

OOOooo yay! All the fall fashion mags are out and I've devoured every page to find out what all the fab trends will be!

1) JEWEL TONES! Sparkle in all your favorite gems tones; ruby, emerald, jade, citrine, sapphire! They're coming out in all kinds of ways from jeans and cords to clutches and even nail polish. I must say I am most obsessed with Ruby and Emerald and am already clamoring for the perfect handbag in those colors. Also try Ruby red trousers to kick up your daily 9-5 look.

2) LADY LIKE HANDBAGS! Yes they're still here, they first made an appearance last Fall but they're still here and for good reason, with classic lines and finishes they're a timeless choice in all that's trendy. Try them in a fun animal leather or color to punch it up!

3) LEOPARD-Ok sure leopard is always "in" in some capacity but this Fall you MUST have a purse with calf or pony hair leopard and a pair of shoes (I have 3 already!) it gives everything that extra pop of trendy!

4) LOAFER PUMPS- Menswear meets women's pumps- these fab shoes appeared in the year's vogue but I didn't see too many out for the masses until this year and I'm stoked! I have always loved loafer-like shoes. Try these in patent finishes!

NOTHING NEW- BUT we're seeing some of the same trends for last year back in a bigger way!
1) FLARES and TROUSERS-We see this continue throughout fall which is great because they add extra polish to the more structured fall looks. Try the flare in a new fabric way like corduroy.

2) Menswear inspired- I don't even think it's men's wear per se, just all the tweed, trenches, and wool fabrics appear every fall WHICH WE LOVE! Mix in one of this Fall's "IT" jewel colors for fresh take on an old classic. Menswear inspired shorts are really in full force this year so definitely pick those up!

3) FUR-or for animal lovers like myself FAUX FUR! It's still here, definitely get yourself a vest if you didn't last year, if you already have one grab something new like a full faux fur coat or sweater with fur details. (Not in small puffs though-ew that's gross.)

4) CHUNKY KNITS-Duh yes, every fall/winter we ALL love a chunky knit. Try a cute cable knit and pair with menswear inspired shorts and do monochromatic shoes and tights!

5) "Middie" as opposed to Maxi or mini skirts are in but I'm not super stoked about that look so take it or leave it.

6) SOUTHWEST PRINTS-we saw them this Spring but they continue in cute sweaters for Fall, I DO love this and it's a "DO" only one at a time please.

More to come! Get out there and shop!

Color Me Denim!

What do you think of the colored denim trend? Personally it's growing on me as I've ordered my first pair of cherry red skinny jeans! I think this is a really fun trend for the summer. Also going into Fall I'm seeing a lot of the same however in more muted hues and earth tones. Try pairing your crayon bright jeans with something more toned down like a cute graphic tee or a striped top and flats. Or go a dressier route and do a black blazer or a black sequined top and heels! Try to keep the rest of your look simple since you already have a lot going on the bottom! Happy Shopping!

Blushing Blush!

Check out the newest color for Spring, you may have noticed this pale hue on some of your favorite celebrities and now it's everywhere! This shade is so subtly beautiful but it can definitely be hard to wear. Here are some helpful tips to wearing blush; get a spray tan! No doubt this color looks great on olive skin complexions but that's no reason us pale ladies can't rock it as well, so go get yourself a spray tan! What colors pair well with blush- try gray, charcoal, black, and my favorite camel or nude! I like to wear jewelry in rose gold or gold hue to warm up the shade.  Keep your makeup simple-go for a smokey eye or a bold pink lip!

The New Capri!

Every Spring we venture out to see what's new in fashion, you're undoubtedly going to search out a new pair of denim capri's. We're here to show you what's on the radar for crops!

Skinny capri's-these aren't new but they remain a steady throughout most premium denim lines. Slim fitting through the calves is the look to go for. Roll them up or buy them already at the proper length, either way you'll be on trend with this silhouette.

Boyfriend Skinny capri's-sounds like an oxymoron but yes the "New" capri style is boyfriend, ie. baggy, loose, like you threw on your bf's old 501's. It's a fresh new spin that may take some getting used to but once perfected is so now! Check out some Hollywood examples. (the only ones that aren't skinny cut are Reese Witherspoon's so don't look at her; )

Come into Luxe to try our version of the boyfriend skinny by Paige Premium Denim.

What's "IN" for Spring!

So the weather is getting warmer, so what is your wardrobe update for Spring? Here are my top picks!

1) Platform wedges-sky high! The taller the better, wear with your fab flares! Wood elements are great.
2) Cut out/cage style sandals-great update on gladiator styles.
3) The mini bag-de-clutter your giant hobo and get yourself updated with a tiny bag worn messenger style
4) As I told you before blouses are huge-read last post.
5) Flares-Must have, read the last post.
6) Harem style pants and non denim are a great way to mix up your wardrobe!
7) Fedoras
8) Rompers and Jumpers!! Don't panic there is a great style for everyone, every age! Have fun with this style.

More fun trends to come!!

Blow out blouses!

Oh my gosh I forgot to blog about my most favorite trend obsession this Spring; blouses!!! I am beyond obsessed, buying up all shapes and patterns! Ok so this is huge because of the all the 70's inspired looks that are all the rage now. I love any style, off the shoulder, peasant, sleeveless, cut out shoulders, anything works! I really love it in silk fabrics rather than harder fabrics like cotton because you really get that flowy feel. Pair with a great pair of flares to really be on trend and make sure to get the whole effect by throwing on some wedges or espadrilles to get those long lean legs.

Wear with Flare!

This Spring stores are ablaze with the latest trend in denim; the flare! Some of you may still be wearing these skipping right over the skinny trend so guess what now they're back; )

My style suggestions for this trend are; purchase a dark to medium dark, with slight wear if you want a lighter look for Spring. Darker washes will make you look longer and leaner. You must, must, must make sure they are long enough and be wary the seamstress who hems them too short. This jean must bend at the top of the foot and graze the heel on your shoe. I like the flare to fit me through the thigh so you really get an exaggerated effect. This style is perfect for you JLo body-type ladies out there because it really gives balance to your curvaceous body! It also works great for those of you looking for a nicer jean to wear to work as many of the premium brands offer a "trouser style" fit. I suggest wearing these jeans with very tall wood wedges, totally on trend! As for tops, pair with all the great feminine flowy blouses found everywhere this season! Tuck and belt and rock it!

Check out LUXE Boutique for 7 For All Mankind's Dojo style (pictured top) and also their Georgia Trouser (for you trend setters)

New Year-Old Wardrobe?

The New Year is an inspiring time to take on new challenges like revamping your closet! It sounds like an ominous task but a worthwhile one and something you'll thank yourself for throughout the year.

One of the things we don't always do when rummaging through our closet and throwing what we don't wear is making of list of what we are in need of. So this year I suggest using this list as your guideline, make a list of what "essentials" you are in need of and start buying those items throughout the year instead of aimlessly adding to your closet.

Here goes....

1) White button down dress shirt-The key to a great white button down is having it tailored to fit your body perfectly-it makes all the difference. Renew your white shirt every year or so as it can become stained and look old.
2) Black Trouser pants- Black dress pants are a go to for any office look and a staple item when creating a dressed up look. Make sure they fit perfectly and are not too long or too short. The cuff should bend and rest on the top of your foot and come about half way down your heel. They cannot be baggy! Ensure a snug fit while making sure they don't pull through the crotch area.
3) Black & dark brown casual leather belts-to be worn with jeans.
4) Dress belts-Black, brown, colored-just make sure these are thinner than your casual belts and in a streamline material like patent leather with small classic buckles.
5) A great pair of well fitting jeans-By a great pair of jeans I mean a pair you look great and feel comfortable in. I would recommend a dark rinse wash in a straight leg style-the style is really flattering and can be dressed up or down. Find your perfect fit at LUXE!
6) Blazer- you could find a suit and either wear the trousers and blazer together or buy them separately either way, you need to own a black blazer. Wear over your button down with jeans or over a flashy top, it really goes with so many things!
7) LBD-Little Black dress! A wardrobe must! Every woman must be ready and armed with this-the best way to approach this is to buy a simple but flattering black dress with a hint of sexiness that can look like 10 dresses in one. By having a simple LBD you can easily add a cardigan and belt with flats for an office party or throw on statement earrings and gold strappy shoes and be ready for cocktails!
8) Cami's-You must own cami's in variety of colors-they will be essential for your "under" wardrobe. You many need them to wear under blazers, see through white tops, sweaters, you name it you need them.
9) Pencil skirt- I love the pencil skirt of all skirts, they are fitted enough to be sexy yet long enough to be office appropriate.
10) Dress Coat-A dress coat can be a nice pea coat or a very formal fur, or a sleek silk trench but you need a nice coat to wear over dresses. Most people have winter coats and casual coats but these just won't do when your dressing up. You could find a pea coat that works for both so be smart about your purchase.
11) Trench Coat-You don't have to ask, you know you need it. Fall or Spring this is a must!
12) Sundress- A summertime go to, this could be a flirty floral print or a saucy maxi but it will keep you going for BBQ's or vacations.
13) Other cocktail dress- besides the LBD you need at least one standby cocktail dress in case of a nice wedding or party. Again, keep it basic and you'll get more wear out of it.
13) Sweaters-The must haves are: Cashmere something, anything! A wrap, a cardigan, and a turtle or cowlneck at minimum.
14) Black heels-At minimum you must have black heels, buy as many other colors, skins, and metallics as needed but keep a great pair of basic black heels. Not peep, not slingback, or platform. Just a nice pair of basic heels.
15) Basic t-shirts-Like a cami these can be your staples to go under many of your clothes. Long sleeve and short sleeve including tank tops for layering.
16) Flats- Have a nice pair of flats you can wear in the office or for a day off.
17) Sandals-Have several pairs: Beach ready to espadrilles. DO NOT buy white strappy leather ugh gross.
18) Boots-Riding boots in brown, dress boots in black are a minimum must. Booties are great if you can do additional styles.


I am sure there a few things I missed but this will get you started! Happy New Year! Happy Shopping!

Say it with Sequins!

This Holiday season add a little vamp with sequins-sequined anything is looking hot for any Holiday event you have coming up.

For a Holiday Office Party-Pack a punch with a sequined blazer over skinny trouser pants and booties with a blouse. Try this gorgeous cream jacket from Marc Jacobs! If you can't spring for Marc Jacobs try our silver version from BB Dakota available at LUXE!

For a "Holiday Night Out With The Girls"- Wear a sequined mini skirt downplayed with a black blazer and basic flowy top tucked in to look blousey and stacked platform heels. Try LaRok's sassy mini skirt!

For a Holiday Cocktail Party-Go for Gold with a full on sequined dress with a 3/4 length sleeve-pair with opaque black tights and fancy booties or heels! (French Connection) Not ready to go full out sparkle? Try this black dress with sequin details from French Connection available at LUXE!

Anyway you decide to wear it this season the Holidays are a great excuse to wear sequins so go for it!

Poncho Punch!

I decided to write my blog about what I am obessing over obtaining currently, which is a sweater poncho. I do already have two versions but I bought them a few years back but now I am on the hunt for one that is overly baggy, can be belted, and is thick knit! Here are my picks: All from French Connection-a line I carry in my store that I absolutely love! My styling advice for a poncho is wear it with jeggings, boots, and wear a long sleeve top underneath. Try belting it with a medium thick leather belt!

Lovely Lace

Right now I am beyond obsessed with black lace anything! Well not anything but still you can find the black lace trend everywhere right now, so go out and get laced up! I am only talking about black lace now ladies, now is not the time to bring out an old lace top and try to make it work. The sad thing about trends that come back is that they always come back slightly different so you can't use your old stand by that's been in your closet waiting for it's comeback. Anyway, I love this trend in a blouse, in a handbag, pump, and on a dress! I love it inset in a top as well! Pair with a nude cami or nude pumps-so hot! Wear the bag or pumps to liven up any outfit! The way to wear it is more sweet than sassy, more ladylike is fashion forward. I just bought a lace print scarf that was sooo cute and I pair it with my military jacket- a little mix of feminine with the masculine, always a do. One piece of advice; find a soft lace, not crunchy and not too fitted. Happy Shopping! Go to shopstyle.com and type in black lace to find your perfect piece for the trend! (From top: blouse by Alexander Wang;bag at Spegiel.com; pumps at dsw.com; lace top at revolveclothing.com; dress by Tracy Reese at nordstrom.com and always shop at Luxe Boutique!)

Wild About Prints!

 I feel that every woman should have a little leopard in her closet, honestly it never really goes out of style. This season leopard is really in! I like to see this trend incorporated as an accessory. A leopard belt or shoes can really make an outfit! Also, for the more conservative dresser or the woman who won't wear leopard, adding a little touch is a way to be trendy without being over the top. If you're a little more brave try a sheer leopard blouse! I like the blouse to be flowy and not fitted, so it's not street walker-esque. The rules with leopard are: wear only one piece at time, no leopard belt
 and shoes! This is not the time to be "matchy-matchy." Go out and get in touch with your wild side!

Gray is the new Black!

Even if you're fashionably clueless you're going to be bombarded with gray this fall in everything from shoes and accessories to coats and apparel! So get on board and get in with this trendy hue! I personally love to rock the trend in accessories! I myself have bought over the knee boots in gray, booties in gray suede, and a studded handbag in a taupe-ish gray (great for wearing with both brown and black.) What I love about the trend is it's versatility, you pair it with so many colors, it's a great neutral. Here were my personal finds: Handbag by Hype available at Bluefly.com; Boots by Sam Edelman available at Nordstrom.com; and bootie by Miss Sixty also Nordstom.com.