Fashion Tips for the Ladies.

February is quickly coming to a screeching halt, therefore it’s time to begin purchasing spring and summer fashions. Guys, not to long ago I gave you some tips on what to buy and now I must cater to my beautiful ladies. As a man there are a few things I love to see my woman in, but there are also things that I can go without. From dresses to handbags and flats to heels, there’s a plethora of possible fashion-do’s and here are a few. (This is strictly a suggestion on what I feel can become this year’s trends, so take it or leave it.)

It can’t be spring or summer without you owning AT LEAST two dresses; a bright, airy and fun dress and a more sophisticated, neutral and sleek one. If you shop at Urban Outfitters you are guaranteed to find one of each, if not more. The first dress pictured is a MINKPINK Tank dress that gives off a two-piece look which is always great. It can be worn as seen above or paired with a light cardigan or jacket to give a more sheek look. Next there’s a more western-vibed dress by Thistlepearl, an independent Australian line. When worn with a pair of cowboy boots and a pearl necklace, you can wear this on a night out with the girls or to you and your boyfriend’s favorite restaurant. If the first pair doesn’t tickle your fancy, there’s the more outgoing approach with the dress from Ecote. You would definitely be the center of attention with this dress, whether you’re in class, at lunch or hosting your own suare. All it needs for a little spice is a fitted fedora and your favorite pumps. If you’re a girl that likes to be on her grown woman, is usually in an office atmosphere or just wants to try something new, the Urban Renewal Secretary Dress is a great choice. Made from a vintage secretary bow blouse, at the top, and vintage fabric remnant, at the skirt, you will once again be giving a two-piece look while not having to worry about if your blouse will continually escape from within. All you need to throw this look off is a clutch, some black stockings and some open toe booties.

As an avid blogger and shopper I have come across a lot of different things over the past few months, but there’s one thing that has stood out to me. PYTHON!!! Yes, like the snake. I remember in the late 90’s when women rocked the reptile family like there was no tomorrow. The difference between then and now is real opposed to look-alike. Unfortunately, python costs a pretty penny and Saks Fifth Avenue didn’t attempt to cut down the MSRP. With designers such as Gucci, JALDA, Zagliani and Ferragomo you’re looking at prices from around $1500-$3500. Fortunately, there are purses that may not be fully python but have the detailing starting at $360 which sounds a little more reasonable. If that’s still out of your grasp I’d recommend Bag, Borrow or Steal, a great rental service for your favorite accessories. I know you’re probably thinking “that sounds really low-budget” but just imagine carrying the latest, hottest bags for an amazing price. From hobos to satchels and totes to clutches, your handbag is what can make or break an ensemble so choose wisely, and try and go for at least one python oriented bag this season.

Last, but certainly not least, is footwear. Before I begin I must say JESUS/GLADIATOR SANDALS ARE NOT IN, THEY WENT OUT WITH ANCIENT ROME. Now, I love to see my lady in both her flats and heels. Online store, Opening Ceremony has just the right styles for this spring and summer. For you ladies that are into the gladiator shoes you don’t have to totally stray away from that ideal with the peach W8 Desert Sandal. With a buckle strap, you can pair this with some slim trousers and a nice blouse for a more professional look. Or you can go a little more casual with the red W4 Gladiator Oxford, which takes a gladiator-inspired body and adds a twist with an oxford lace-up. With a nice skirt or summer dress you can give these shoes the all important “it” factor. Now, we all know that the fashionable chick can’t go without a bomb pair of pumps in her wardrobe.The W5 Flap Shoe gives you an oxford styled heel that can be worn both casually and for a more dressed up look. Finally, we have the W6 Elastic Heel which gives a strictly sophisticated shine. It is the epitome of cool; both cooling in the warm climate and a look that gives you many cool points.

I hope that these tips have been both entertaining and informative. I hope to see some of you around campus sporting these looks and becoming one of our Fashion Guru’s of the week. Please leave feedback and even give me some pointers on what you KNOW a girl can’t go without being that you truly are one.

CoutureSteez Out!!!

Fashion Tips for the Guys

Hello there guys. I know that we don’t usually get catered to when it comes to fashion but I’m here to give a few tips for the upcoming seasons. Spring and Summer are approaching it’s almost time to begin buying a new wardrobe. From shorts to bright colors to shoes that keep your feet cool, here are a few tips on what to buy.

Shorts are a must have in a warm climate. But long, baggy shorts are no longer acceptable. The designers of DSquared2 captured this ideal best in their recent Spring 2009 runway show. Shorts ranging from just above the knee to about mid-thigh give a great look, fit and are just the right size to keep you cool. I know some of us are a little insecure about “showing leg” but i assure you you’ll be making the right decision.

Bright colors are the making of a Spring/Summer wardrobe, and the color blue is this years hottest hue. You can’t go this Spring or Summer without some blue of your own. Whether it be clothes, accesories or even shoes, you HAVE to emerge yourself in this “blue lifestyle.” And don’t give me the excuse of  “I can’t find anything I’d wear in that color,” because EVERY designer has incorporated some blue into their line this season. Especially Heritage 1981, the branch off of Forever 21. If you don’t have it in your local malls just check it out online, they even have size charts making your experience easier.

So, I was thinking, can we get on our “grown man” this year guys. Not too many more pairs of sneakers or those over worn Spurry’s will keep us in the fashion game. I like the idea of a nice pair of moccasins or some REAL loafers. That would be nice. Another fashion DON’T is anything that shows a man’s feet outside of his home, i.e. NO SANDALS OR FLIP FLOPS, just not a good look. Save the “I have pretty feet story,” because women don’t care if you go for a weekly pedicure, they’d just rather not see that, ya know?? Check out Saks for your shoe collection this year.

With Spring and Summer also comes time for all your fun accersories like sunglasses, caps, jewelry and even fresh frangrances. Feel free to mix and match the best accesories, in colors such as blue, yellow, red and orange but be sure not to mask your outfit.

CoutureSteez Out!!!