Chic Holiday Style

Posted on December 8, 2015 by RLStyle

The holidays are here, and so are the parties and gatherings. With all the events of the season, it can be tricky to decide the right look for the occasion. Whether it’s a casual family gathering or cocktail party, here are some fun and easy style tips to look your best!

The Casual Family Gathering
Dressing up a dark-wash pair of jeans is a great way to look chic while staying casual. To channel the current 70s trend, try a flared leg. But most importantly, find the fit that flatters your figure best. Then add a silk blouse or soft cashmere sweater. To add some extra warmth and style to your look, layer with a cozy faux fur vest or jacket. White is always festive for the snowy season, and soft blush is right on trend. A statement necklace, sparkly flats, and a shiny, luxe clutch say you’re ready to celebrate. For an extra boost (of style and confidence), especially with a flared leg pant, go for the heels, even at home!

Festive Casual Party
For a casual get-together at a friend or colleague’s home, pair a dark-washed straight cut jean with a shiny, glam top. Try a black silk blouse and metallic blazer, or another option could be a metallic blouse with a black or grey blazer. No matter which denim silhouette you choose for your figure, the long, fitted, hip-covering jacket is always flattering. (When shopping for a blazer, ignore the slouchy, boxy jackets which are on trend now. Instead, buy one with the highest armhole you can comfortably wear, that curves in even slightly at the waist, and buttons without pulling. If there’s ever one place to invest, it’s a great jacket.) Add a multi-strand black crystal necklace and earrings to add extra texture and shine to your outfit, and let your pumps or booties bring a splash of color. Dressing up your denim with sparkle will assure you’ll feel gorgeous, but not over-dressed.

Girls’ Night Out
A fabulous sequin skirt is the perfect piece for going out with the ladies! Pair it with a monochromatic cashmere sweater and some chic black booties. Then add a trendy fringe clutch, glamorous earrings, and champagne to boot!

Straight from the Office
When jetting from the office to the holiday fête, a classic sheath dress works wonders. It is totally work appropriate, but can easily be dressed up for evening. Choose a neutral color like black, gray, or navy (paired with pumps and a sweater or blazer for work). But once evening comes, swap out the office shoes for a more festive pair, and amp up your style with your jewelry and accessories.

Cocktail Party
A burgundy lace cocktail dress is a trendy yet elegant choice. Finish your ensemble with a lush fur wrap, chandelier earrings, a glimmering clutch, and strappy black heels. Be sure to remember your burgundy lipstick, too.

Have Fun With Your Accessories…
This is the perfect time of year to shine your brightest, so shine on! Don’t be afraid to add some extra sparkle to any outfit you choose. Find some mixed metal bangles, jeweled earrings and necklaces, a shiny clutch bag, or some metallic nail polish. Go out in style and enjoy a festive holiday season and a Happy New Year!

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Fall Styling Event September 26!

Posted on September 8, 2015 by RLStyle

Put a Little Effort In, to Make It Look Effortless…

As you probably know, PrAna has great attire for activities like yoga & climbing, but did you know that they also have tons of cool lifestyle clothes for weekend?

Join RL Style as we put looks together to make casual dressing effortless!

Fashion Event Tomorrow, April 19!

Posted on April 18, 2015 by RLStyle

Join RL Style tomorrow, April 19, 3-6pm at the PrAna Flagship Store for a free event, 1147 Pearl St, Boulder! Get to know PrAna! It’s cool, casual lifestyle clothes and stylish active clothes, for women and men. Join us for a styling presentation for your spring/summer wardrobe and stay to shop.

Bring your family for snacks, sips, shopping promos and more!

————————————————————————————————

And announcing another upcoming workshop…

Wednesday, June 10, 8-10am, Ireland Stapleton Pryor & Pascoe, PC | 717 17th Street, Suite 2800 | Denver, Colorado

RL Style, LLC is very proud to participate in the 2015 Professional Development Series for Women in Energy. This event is open to the public!

Enhance Your Style and Elevate Your Professional Image Register Here Today, and also check out the awesome lineup of events in the series,

Would your company or association benefit from a seminar on style and professional dress? Please inquire about booking a seminar for women and men.

Spring Trends 2015

Posted on March 21, 2015 by RLStyle

Wave goodbye to your winter wardrobe, because spring is upon us at last! This year’s spring trends are fun, easy, and best of all: you don’t even have to get rid of last year’s essentials. Last spring’s hot colors, white and pink, have outlived the winter and are back in full blast! Florals, botanicals and painterly prints are also hot this spring, so embrace this quintessential trend. However, if you want to stand out, keep in mind the following trends and tips to look fresh and stylish:

1) Denim All the Way: Don’t be afraid to mix and match denim, because you’ll just look cool and classic. Whether it’s a denim skirt or jeans with a light weight chambray shirt, make sure you vary the shades of blue to contrast your outfit.

2) Painterly Prints: If you’re not a huge fan of florals or botanicals and crave a more unique spring pattern, look for abstract “painted” looks. Printed dresses are an easy solution, or if you have a great printed blouse, pair this with a solid or denim bottom.

3) Bohemian & 70’s Vibe: Give your outfit a dose of hippie with some fringe accessories, such as shoes or purses! Also, flowy-sleeved blouses, long dresses/skirts, and deep colors like burgundy, green or spice market hues will greatly enhance your free spirited look.

4) Head-to-Toe White: Forever classy and always chic, wearing all white is the perfect spring look whether you’re taking it easy or going out for dinner.

5) Army/Navy: Military-influenced styles endure with army green, neutral khakis and always classic, nautical navy. Think utilitarian jackets, trench coats, anoraks, uniform-inspired dresses, and even fashion cargo pants.

6) Marsala Wine: Looks like an autumn tone? Time to think outside the crayon box. Wear it in spring, summer, fall & winter, sleeveless or not, and mix it with soft, cool tones of blush or aqua for a fresh mix. Flattering on just about everyone, Marsala is the Pantone 2015 Color of the Year.

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Top 10 Trends for a Fabulous Fall Season

Posted on October 29, 2014 by RLStyle

As posted on Inspire52, check out the list of must-have fall fashion trends…click here for full article:

TOP 10 TRENDS FOR A FABULOUS FALL SEASON

(Inspire52 is an awesome daily dose of positive news…read

here to learn more.)

It’s officially fall, and it’s finally starting to feel like it. So with the crisp air upon us, it’s time to switch out your closet, start layering and implement some of your fave fall trends to boost your wardrobe. So how should we describe the season’s trends? Practically anything goes from menswear-inspired to lady-like, from minimalist to embellished, from relaxed to sporty, from pastels to darks.

Let’s take a look at what’s hot this season… Click to read what you need and shop the styles…

Cold Spring Fever

Posted on April 16, 2014 by RLStyle

It’s that time of year again, when despite the lingering cool weather, it’s an exciting time to welcome spring fashion into your wardrobe. Spring is a time to freshen up your style, shed some heavy layers and incorporate new trends into your outfits. There are many ways to transition into spring, such as selecting softer colors, floral prints and lighter fabrics, though still layering for warmth and added style.

For a casual everyday look, contrast ankle-length dark denim with a lightweight pale-colored blouse. Go even farther with your spring look by adding blush pink accents, such as a light pink leather jacket, spring coat or shoes. Not only is pale pink the hottest color this spring, but it is also very feminine and flattering. A styling trick that works wonders is simply adding color- either in small pops such as shoes or in statement-making pieces in soft tones, which will help you to look effortlessly stylish.

Another way you can transition into spring is by selecting more patterns, such as botanical and abstract prints. Switch out your typical jeans for loose-fitting printed trousers, or instead of wearing a solid blazer try one with a floral pattern. If these trends are too daring for your style, go instead for a printed blouse or a printed shoe. Wearing printed clothing also allows you to complement your outfit with more colors. For instance, the white flowers on the blazer can be accented with white accessories. White is another big trend for spring, as well as black and white together and color-blocked shoes and bags, which will give any outfit an ultra-chic, sophisticated edge.

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Find your flattering denim

Posted on March 21, 2013 by RLStyle

No matter how you style your look, it’s imperative to start with the right fit for your figure. Spring is a great time to edit your wardrobe and add some new things to freshen your look for the season’s transition. But as you go through your closet and hit the stores, be discerning about the way things fit, including your jeans. If you’re not sure of the best silhouette for you, follow these guidelines… (click to read article in The Denver Post, and see more tips below.)

The Denver Post 5 Tips article today

“Curvy” figure

Though most jeans out there are skinnies, most women have curves! If your curves are mainly in your hip area, then balance your figure by adding some flare at your pant leg with a boot cut jean. This proportion will straighten your silhouette and minimize the width of your hips.

Also forgo the low rise and choose the mid or high variety to smooth out the tummy and avoid “muffin top.”

Back pockets are important, too- be sure the pockets aren’t too high, which could create the look of a larger back side then desired. And be sure to minimize the bling and bright stitching and say no to pocket flaps.

“Slim, straight or boyish figure”

If your figure is slim, or perhaps you want to add more curves, as many women with “boyish” type figures do, go for silhouettes that will accentuate your figure. Skinny jeans that hug your hips and calves will create a curvy line. Accented pockets will add shape to your derriere, and so will the narrow ankle width. The wash of the denim is also important- when the jeans are faded in certain areas like the backside, the fading can contribute to a curvier look.

Skinny jeans can look sexy, but mystery is sexier. Style your skinnies with a hip-skimming untucked top for a little coverage. Straighter leg options can look great with or without your top tucked in. And remember when styling your outfit, that third piece such as a jacket or cardigan will instantly amp up your look.

“Petite figure”

For the ladies who would prefer a little more height, create the illusion of a longer leg with a straight leg jean, or a skinny. At the end of your hem, choose a pointed toe shoe to extend the length for as long as possible. Beware the boot cut style which can visually shorten the leg, since there is not a lot of length between the hip and the flared hem.

However, if you need a boot cut to balance your hip (see “curvy figure” above) then go for a minimally flared version. This subtle boot cut also works for the days when you want to wear boots and functionally need the width of the hem. Keeping your jeans outside your boots (instead of doing the trendy jean tuck) will create a longer line to add height to your petite frame.

“Denim Wash”

For the most flattering and dressiest look, go for a dark wash. This is also the best option for casual Friday if jeans are allowed. (This is true for the guys, too.)

Subtle vertical fading down the center of the thigh can slim and elongate the leg, because the inner thigh and outer thigh will appear darker. However, beware extreme fading, as well as fading at the backside which can make it appear larger.

While it’s cool to have the look of distressed denim, beware of bold or too much whiskering (the thin horizontal lines and folds created by linear fading and wrinkling around the fly and upper thigh area.) This denim finish can be unflattering and will draw attention to this area of the body. Whiskering can often look too young, but also- why would you want attention at your fly area?

Lighter denim wash washes are more casual, and will also draw more attention to your lower figure then dark washes.

“Colored, coated and printed denim”

Pastel colored denim carries the same rules as white jeans- they will definitely draw attention to your lower half. Bright colors do the same, though their depth of color can conceal slightly better than their lighter cousins.

If you want to go for a light color for a fresh spring look, but are self-conscious of your hip area, then wear a long, hip covering tunic or blazer in a color that’s at least a little darker, to deemphasize this area and bring attention down to your legs.

Deep jewel tone colors are easier to wear, and more flattering to pull off because they’re darker.

Printed denim for spring is au courant, but beware of patterns that accent the wrong places or appear too busy.

For rocking your patterned denim, I recommend keeping the rest of the outfit neutral and fairly simple. A dark top will ground the look, and a long top will minimize the intensity, while providing more of a subtle “wow” factor.

Colored denim and patterned denim are fun fashion trends, but as with all trends—decide if these are right for your style (and your figure), don’t spend too much, and don’t be a slave to fashion!

The Denver Post 5 Tips: Denim fashion: Finding jeans that flatter for springtime

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Fall for Boots

Posted on November 1, 2012 by RLStyle

Boots are one of fall’s hottest accessories. Check out today’s article in The Denver Post for

tips on buying boots. And feel free to post any of your style questions!

Shop these styles:

Incorporating Your Fall Wardrobe for the Last Dash of Summer

Posted on August 30, 2012 by RLStyle

It’s hard to hang up your breezy sundresses and rotate your strappy sandals to the back of the closet as the weather cools come September. Or maybe you can’t wait to shop for new jackets and fall’s “it” boots. Whether you’re clinging to summer’s last traces or eager for autumn, you can mix your wardrobes for both seasons together starting now. Who says you can’t have it all?

These pointers also appear in August 30’s fashion edition of The Denver Post‘s “5 Tips” feature, and can be found in print and at the DenverPost.com/Lifestyles.

Incorporate Fall Trends Into Your Wardrobe Starting Now

1/ Darken your palette but keep your brights. Burgundy, navy, and black are this fall’s “it” colors, but you can start wearing them now. Infuse your wardrobe with these rich hues, even mixing them. Navy and black combined is unexpected, yet very chic and sophisticated! Or layer a printed blouse with a cardigan or blazer in navy or burgundy, and your dark tone will act as a neutral. Also, you don’t have to phase out all your hot colors once the weather cools. Carry forward your bright yellow, bold blue, cherry red and bright orange tones from summer. For example, a tangerine tee or blouse will work effortlessly with the changing leaves when topped with a blazer in autumnal tones such as rust, cognac and burgundy.

2/ Add leather to your look. Start small while it’s still hot out, then up the ante once the crisp air arrives. For example, start by adding a wide leather belt to a soft blouse or dress, and leather booties, too. Then get ready to switch out your blazer and cardigan for a hip leather jacket. Try on a fitted style, and if the leather is a light enough weight, the jacket can be worn all day indoors as part of your outfit. And for an extra trendy take on your jacket, choose a military-inspired style.

3/ Don your denim. This fall’s denim trends are easy to incorporate once the summer heat breaks. The past spring and summer’s colored denim gets a sophisticated update with richer jewel tones and fall colors. Leather-like coated jeans come in light, medium or heavy weights (from their wax-like treatments), and add an instantly edgy attitude. Metallic varieties are having a moment as a way to add shimmer. Pair your daring denim with pretty, summery tanks and soft lightweight cardigans for a seamless season transition, as well as an interesting mix of textures.

4/ Dress in layers and layer your dress. Your favorite summer floral or geometric dress works straight into fall with tights, a soft leather jacket, and booties. And the accents don’t have to be black – gray, brown, navy, or maroon are great neutrals to ground the patterns.

5/ Summer shoes get the boot! Try closed-toed pumps and booties with your summer clothes while it’s still warm. Capped toes, platforms and embellished statement shoes are some of the new season’s hottest accessories. Just be sure to include burgundy in your fall collection—this sumptuous shade in leather or suede will stand out in the sea of black.

Shop It:

Pantone’s Fall 2012 Color Report

Posted on July 13, 2012 by RLStyle

Take a look at the colors of fall…they seem a bit brighter than traditional fall colors! Notice that Tangerine Tango is continuing from spring, so carry over your bright orange tees and frocks and layer them for the fall season…

Also I’ve seen in various trend reports that Navy is “the new black” and that jewel tones are back this fall- whether in colored denim, leather, velvet or wool… also be sure to score some burgundy in your wardrobe, or as the fashion world is calling it- “oxblood.”

More to come in the months ahead. But for now, enjoy summer while it lasts!

Headed to the beach, looking chic…

Posted on June 28, 2012 by RLStyle

My 5 Tips for The Denver Post this month are all about your summer getaway to a beach (or pool) destination. Please click the link to view the article:

The Denver Post “5 Tips: Advice on packing for a beach vacation”

1. For the beach • A swimsuit that flatters your figure is a good investment. Look for a style with built-in shapewear to flatter your bustline or minimize your tummy. • Shorts and a top will work as a cover-up, but the ease and simplicity of a dress style adds a sophisticated and even glamorous note. • Sunglasses are important, so protect your eyes and add a little movie star appeal at the same time. • A big straw hat can act as your own personal umbrella to keep the sun off your face. • Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen offering protection from both UVA and UVB rays. If you need to look tan, use a self-tanning lotion before getting to your destination.

2. One piece • Dresses are an easy option, but mix up the styles: Go long for day and short for night. A casual belted maxi dress is a relaxed, comfortable daytime look. For evening, show off that fake tan with an above-the-knee shift and strappy sandals.

3. A leg up Shorts come in all shapes, sizes and fabrics: cropped or Bermuda-style, printed or solid. Go by what looks best on your figure and legs. Not comfortable in shorts? Try capris in khaki or a range of colors.

4. Top it off
• T-shirts will lend versatility to your wardrobe. Pack modal/spandex blend styles in flattering colors. Avoid designs with sayings or logos that scream “tourist” or look juvenile.
• A knit tank top on a toned upper body looks great with a flowy skirt; just be sure to wear the right bra or use a bra clip to conceal your straps if it’s a halter or racer-back style.
• If you like blouses, try a loose-cut printed style paired with slim shorts or capri pants.
• A sweater might be the only cover you need on breezy nights. Try an open-knit linen style to throw over a dress or top, or a cardigan for air-conditioned restaurants and airplanes.

5. Accessories
• A beach tote is a necessity. If you can’t pack a huge straw bag, fold a soft canvas one or a waterproof mesh bag into your luggage.
• A handbag in a bright color works for your carry-on and sightseeing adventures. If you’ve got the room, tuck a clutch style inside your handbag for travel. Then wear it solo for evenings out.
• A skinny metallic belt looks good with shorts and capris; a wide one in brown leather will work with your maxi dress.
• Try a big airy, gauzy scarf to make your shorts and tank look instantly chic and also help take the chill off of aggressive air conditoning.
• Two to three pairs of shoes should do it. Try open, strappy flat sandals for the beach, the maxi dress and casual daytime excursions; and strappy heels for night. Lightweight tennis shoes are great for walking. Try the ones that look like ballet flats. (Reserve your cross trainers for sessions at the gym.)
• Finally, pack a few jewelry items, such as a statement necklace in a wooden, tribal style. Or try glam-girl gold mixed with hot colors; these pieces will pair nicely with your dresses and your casual looks, too. Pile on bracelets for added style.

Shop it:

Do you have comments, questions or suggestions? Post them right here on the Lefort Style Report!

Freshen your wardrobe with florals

Posted on May 31, 2012 by RLStyle

This month my 5 style tips for The Denver Post focused on floral prints and ways of wearing them. Please click the link and check out the article! (Then come back here for more, and post your questions and comments!) And remember to subscribe to The Lefort Style Report blog for style tips!

The Denver Post: “Five tips: How to wear floral prints this summer”

Memorial Day has passed (and yes–now you can officially wear white! ….That’s if you actually adhere to this strict fashion rule of days past.) So let’s celebrate the warm weather, the gardens blooming around us and the anticipation of summer by infusing our wardrobes with a burst a florals. Of course for those who are wary of the potentially busy patterns, remember that it doesn’t have to be head to toe in table cloth manner; instead, incorporate printed florals in small amounts that are just enough to freshen up your outfit. Check out the fashion collage for ideas that you can replicate at home, and read on for the specifics…

1/ Brighten up!

If your wardrobe is filled with mostly solids, especially in dark colors, then adding a surge of summer with a fun floral can be just what’s needed for building an interesting outfit, injecting some personality to your look, and even providing a little extra joy to your day. For example, a sleeveless floral blouse (and even a colorful belt) could be a perfect accompaniment to your business suit while remaining professional. A floral blouse could also pair nicely with jeans to dress them up for casual Friday or Friday night out. Additionally, try switching out your solid pencil skirt for a printed cotton sateen pencil skirt in a floral pattern. Then pair your printed skirt with a solid tee and cotton blazer for a chic, stylish warm-weather look. Add a stylish necklace and closed-toe pumps for a polished, professional look.

2/ Tone it down

Although floral patterns can be bright, bold and busy, you can easily tone down your floral pattern and über-feminine feeling by adding a little bit of “edge” to your look. For example, top a floral dress with a cool jacket or vest, that just might channel a bit of rugged, utilitarian or tough-girl attitude. Think a pinkalicious, petal-patterned floral frock, then throw on a cropped, fitted denim jacket, a motorcycle style jacket, or a lightweight anorak. Instantly cool! Or if it’s just too hot for the jacket, try topping your dress with an earth-toned leather belt instead.

3/ Big flowers, small flowers

The scale of the floral pattern should align with the frame of the figure wearing it. A large floral pattern can overwhelm a petite lady. A miniature pattern can look too dainty on a woman with a larger frame. Other factors to consider are the placement of the patterns and the contrast of the colors. If the floral is not in a pattern that repeats all over the garment, then beware of which part of the figure is being highlighted by the placement of the print on the body. And keep in mind that bright, bold colors as well as high-contrast color combinations will draw more attention and potentially add more width to the figure, compared to lower contrast, darker or more tonal combinations.

4/ Floral pants?

Really? You may have seen this trend in the store windows and magazines, but thought “no way—I’ll skip that trend.” (And if you’d like to deter attention away from the lower part of your figure then you’re right, skip this one). Otherwise, yes this trend can be done tastefully. It just depends upon the colors, contrast, scale and the overall outfit. Go for a floral pant in a softer palette and try pairing with a long top. If you picture your figure divided into thirds, picture the lower third (from about the mid-thigh, down) showing your floral pant. Think slim-cut soft floral jean with long tunic and khaki cotton belted trench jacket that skims the thigh. Then go for an open sandal in a nude or soft metallic. The only wow factor should be the pants, and the rest of the outfit toned down and cool. And if you’ve got the gams, girly floral shorts are your “barbecue-chic” must-have.

5/ Accessorize with florals!

Accessories are a fabulous way to add a feminine touch to your look in a subtle, unexpected manner. Pair your wardrobe staple black pants with a floral shoe, and wow! Or try some floral flats with your slim cut jeans, tailored Bermuda shorts or solid skirt. Add instant flair to your look by mixing a floral clutch bag with a solid cocktail dress. And, of course, effortlessly tossing on a silky floral scarf with a simple outfit may just channel that inner Parisian in you.

Shop the looks:

Do you have style questions, comments or ideas? Please share! I would love to know if you found this blog post (or our other posts) helpful. You can enter comments after the blog post, or you can post a style conundrum on the “Style Advice” page of the blog. And subscribe now to receive style tips from The Lefort Style Report!

Colored Denim! (And ways to wear it…)

Posted on April 12, 2012 by RLStyle

This month my Five Tips for the Denver Post are about colored denim- it’s a hot trend this spring so I wanted to share some ways of wearing it. Check out the brief article in the Denver Post and then come back here to read more and see lots of outfits! Enjoy! (And please click the “Subscribe” link on the top right of your screen to receive blog posts with style tips every month!)

Five tips: (Click to see the article) Today’s Denver Post Five Tips: “How to best wear colorful spring denim”

More tips…

It may be spring, but if your weather is anything like Colorado, you know not to put away your jeans just yet. And good news – the delightfully exuberant colored-denim trend has been a great way to transition your wardrobe from winter to spring, and remains a fun alternative to regular blue jeans as the weather warms up. The head-to-toe bright color blocking that’s everywhere in spring magazines may seem intimidating, but done right, colored denim is a deceptively easy trend to wear: keeping the look sophisticated by using soft shades and tonal color blocking is the key. With options in every hue of the neutral, pastel, and bright rainbows, you’ll no doubt find a color (or three) that flatters you. Be prepared to hear a lot more of, “I love your outfit! I wish I could wear that.”

Colored denim jeans paired with patterns

Neutrals. These are the perfect starting point for the trend-wary. Not only do they play well with every color already in your closet, but color blocked with other muted shades like cinnamon or mauve, neutral jeans offer the same casual elegance as a monochromatic outfit.

Speaking of playing well together, camel denim also offers a great opportunity to incorporate coral into your outfit – spring’s hottest shade. A classic blazer and printed scarf in this juicy hue give your black staples the boot until next fall.

Pastels. Easter-egg hues are a fresh alternative to white. Complement buttery yellow cropped jeans with a stone-colored wrap cardigan, gold jewelry, and a smart structured wooden clutch. Or top peach denim with a frothy tiered lace tank top under an oatmeal cardigan – more creative tonal color blocking.

Brights. Not for the timid, neons and brights borrowed from the 1980s are the boldest choice for colored denim. Tomato-red jeans add punch to a soft peach tie-neck blouse, while navy and turquoise tops perfectly complement cool ocean-hued bottoms. Channel lush flower fields in bloom with a purple-and-lavender ensemble, or go pretty in pink with head-to-toe magenta and deep rose. To avoid a little too much ’80s nostalgia when accessorizing your brights, forgo black and instead go with modern neutrals and metallics.

Pattern. For a chic alternative to tonal color blocking, pair bright jeans with a pattern in an unexpected dark neutral, like bright pink with a nautical navy-and-white striped knit top, to keep the denim grounded. Keep the look pulled together with accessories that match one of the contrasting hues – a mixed-print polka-dot and striped scarf in the same navy and white will instantly add that extra little something to your outfit.

Keep in mind…Colored denim deliberately brings attention to your bottom half. If that’s not your favorite feature, this is a good trend to skip. However, for the adventurous, a deep jewel tone like eggplant or teal will still slim and flatter your hips – nobody can tell you not to have fun!

Shop the looks:

Lauren Ralph Lauren tan cardigan
£135 – johnlewis.com

Silvian Heach purple top
€75 – welikefashion.com

AllSaints cotton cardigan
$130 – allsaints.com

Green top
€70 – welikefashion.com

Ralph Lauren scoop neck blouse
£89 – farfetch.com

By Malene Birger silk tie neck blouse
£209 – farfetch.com

Tiered tank
$22 – amazon.com

Uniqlo short sleeve tee
£15 – uniqlo.com

Topshop boyfriend jacket
topshop.com

Wallis denim jean jacket
$56 – wallisfashion.com

MiH Jeans denim skinny jeans
$184 – piperlime.gap.com

MICHAEL Michael Kors zipper jeans
$80 – nordstrom.com

Habitual skinny leg jeans
$225 – nordstrom.com

Talbots denim cropped jeans
$80 – talbots.com

MICHAEL Michael Kors zipper jeans
$80 – nordstrom.com

7 For All Mankind yellow jeans
$198 – bloomingdales.com

ZELDA JEAN LEGGING
express.com

Chloé slip on shoes
$450 – net-a-porter.com

Topshop flat shoes
$44 – topshop.com

Azzedine Alaia suede high heels
€810 – montaignemarket.com

DV by Dolce Vita silver shoes
$47 – heels.com

Steve madden handbag
$98 – zappos.com

Summer straw handbag
$50 – warehouse.co.uk

Stella McCartney snakeskin handbag
$1,295 – stellamccartney.com

Zara bag
$30 – zara.com

Bottega veneta handbag
$2,320 – barneys.com

French Connection brown handbag
£112 – vanmildert.com

Oversized clutch
$20 – dsw.com

Kate spade necklace
$148 – piperlime.gap.com

Wallis copper necklace
$28 – wallisfashion.com

Disc necklace
£20 – fashionunion.com

SHANKA resin jewelry
$256 – notjustalabel.com

Miso acrylic necklace
£12 – republic.co.uk

MTWTFSS Weekday copper jewelry
$12 – weekday.com

BCBG Max Azria seed bead jewelry
$58 – bcbg.com

Wallis copper jewelry
$3.50 – wallisfashion.com

Kenneth Jay Lane cuff bangle
$112 – charmandchain.com

Banana Republic sparkle jewelry
$45 – bananarepublic.gap.com

Metal jewelry
$38 – nordstrom.com

Kate spade jewelry
$98 – katespade.com

Floral shawl
$36 – topshop.com

Donna Karan black and white top
$1,180 – stylebop.com

Bird by Juicy Couture graphic tank
£50 – theoutnet.com

Ralph Lauren stripe shirt
£110 – farfetch.com

Hudson Jeans cropped skinny jeans
$154 – cusp.com

Bright colored legging
express.com

Slimming pants
express.com

Castaner bow heels
$163 – boutique1.com

Carvela shoes
£130 – debenhams.com

Yves Saint Laurent studded handbag
£2,765 – net-a-porter.com

Mulberry oversized handbag
$1,550 – lagarconne.com

Balenciaga string bag
$1,545 – balenciaga.com

Yves Saint Laurent leopard scarve
£660 – harrods.com

Bajra oversized scarve
$298 – intermixonline.com

Oasis striped scarve
$17 – oasis-stores.com

Polished Jet Set

Posted on December 18, 2011 by RLStyle

Dressing for travel seems to beg the tradeoff: comfort or style? No girl ever got an upgrade in a tracksuit, but sitting through a five-hour flight in a buttoned-up suit with off-the-charts wrinkle potential sounds quite uncomfortable. Thankfully, jet-set style gets a makeover with a range of chic new options. The comfort-or-style conundrum for air travel? So yesterday. The basics are below.

Layering. Prepare for any cabin temperature and destination climate with plenty of lightweight layers. A wool wrap (think pashmina or cashmere) that doubles as a blanket is a must-have, unless you think the germs that reside on airline-issue covers go great with your eyes. Merino cardigans, thin pullovers, and turtlenecks all make great options, and a blazer or structured jacket pulls everything together.

Comfortable But Polished. Believe it or not, you can have both. Make ponte-knit pants your go-to bottoms for air travel. The thicker, stretchy knit provides all the comfort of leggings with the structure of denim. Additionally, a mid-rise jean with its stretch built-in can provide comfort and style. Boot-cut options can flatter fuller figures wonderfully, and a blazer on top will add structure to slim any silhouette. Even if your blazer is placed overhead during flight, you’ll feel first-class and polished during your airport adventures.

The airport is one of the (very few) occasions where you may want to hang up the high heels – running for a flight in them is not fun, especially while you’re weighed down with luggage. Riding boots and ballet flats are your best friends here. (Although I just had to show you a chic heeled bootie option for those of you who dare…they could always be packed for wearing on arrival.)

You can even get creative with your top layer. Have the best of both worlds in structure and comfort with a knit boyfriend blazer (shown above in black), which won’t wrinkle on the plane. Or a long belted merino cardigan offers a chic alternative to a jacket, and is relaxed enough to pile on the layers underneath comfortably.

Smart Storage.
For short excursions, three basic bags will take the stress off packing. Stow what you don’t need for the flight in a chic carry-on weekend tote. A small cross-body bag keeps the essentials like your driver’s license, cell phone, boarding pass and credit cards handy, and fits easily into a larger satchel that holds everything else you need inflight (like that pashmina wrap – hint, hint). For longer trips, check what you can and lighten your load with just your cross-body bag and satchel.

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