Author: Lauren Hirschhorn

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Maxi-mize Your Wardrobe

In my opinion, there is no better article of clothing than a maxi skirt. Maxi skirts are so versatile and can be used to create any look, style or fashion statement. Not to mention that these bottoms could possibly be the most comfortable piece of clothing that ever existed. If you do not own one of these, I suggest you make a trip immediately to the nearest shopping center.

This Fashionista knows how to rock a maxi, that’s for sure! She paired a gray and white tie-dye maxi with a white patterned tank with pops of color. Her style is very laid back and simple. Her sunglasses are circular in shape and add a very interesting feel to her outfit. Who knew that something as simple as the shape of your spectacles could make or break an entire outfit? For all you fashion mavens out there, be sure to play around with different styles and shapes of sunglasses. Besides being fun, having a variety of shades lets you create a multitude of outfits and looks.

Now in terms of maxi skirts, there are so many to pick from depending on what style you are aiming for. What I am seeing nowadays is that many people are pairing maxis with cropped tees such as this one. For me, that is a little to much navel showing, so I tend to stick to either graphic tees or even a tee with a blazer. Never be afraid to change up what is considered “on trend” to fit your body type and your personal fashion.

My favorite maxi skirts are striped ones. They just seem to go well with everything and their interesting patterns add that extra detail that pulls everything together. You could even use a maxi skirt as a beach cover-up if you wanted. Maxi skirts flatter everyone and every body type, you just need to know what to wear them with.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: All Star All Day

On the weekend, we Fashionistas want to relax and unwind from our crazy hectic weeks. We strive for comfort and accessibility all while trying to set a fashionable example for the rest of the world around us. This style maven dons the perfect outfit for a weekend afternoon in the city or around town.

She has taken a white day dress and paired it with black Converse and a neon pink headband. I love the simplicity of her outfit and the statement that it makes. From the front. her dress seems quite basic and comfortable, however the rear view offers a much more intricate and interesting shape and style. The back of the dress is a hidden feature that catches the eye as she walks in front of you. Forever 21 is known for their dresses with varying back straps, designs and cutouts. Check out this skater dress from them in acid wash. Or, if you want something a little more sophisticated and suitable for a date night, check out this black mini.

The next best part of this ensemble is the pair of Converse she has on. I have always been a strong supporter of Converse and I find that everyone is too since they are so versatile. Girls are wearing them with skinny jeans, leggings, skirts and now, dresses. They instantly dress down an outfit for that simple yet put together style everyone is going after these days. These sneakers are more unique and interesting than in previous years. Now on their website, you can customize any pair to match your personality, likes and dislikes. My favorite pair are the typical beige originals. They are great for summer to wear with daisy dukes and a white tank top. Converse is even showcasing the infamous high tops, bringing us back to the good ‘ol ’70s style.

This stylish lady has created a fashion forward outfit mixing the neutrals of her black sneakers and white dress with neon pops of color found in her headband. Have I mentioned before that my favorite color palette is black, white and pink? Well it is, and this Fashionista captured my heart immediately for that reason. As always, protect your eyes with some fun sunglasses. Be daring and try out new styles, shapes and sizes. You want your shades to make just as much of a statement as your outfit does.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: These Boots Are Made For Walkin’

As much fun as the summer months are with pool parties and tropical vacations, it is time to get a kick back to reality. It is back to school shopping time! Despite not wanting to head back to school, any good Fashionista needs to to put those emotions aside and really look into what trends she should be focusing on for the coming year. The new hottest trend that every retailer is supporting is knee-high boots. Boots are even in right now during the summer too. Many girls are wearing sun dresses with cowboy boots for a country styled ensemble. Also, with the weather being so indecisive lately, many fall trends are starting early.

This Fashionista has the perfect outfit for the first back to school days. She has paired her brown boots with skinny jeans, a striped tank, a gray blazer and a dark red scarf. If the air conditioning in your school is a little chilly keep that blazer and scarf handy. However, if it is still humid and hot near you then forget those extras and stick with the tank and skinnies.

My favorite thing about boots is the variety of different styles that they come in. There are rain boots for those bad weather days, riding boots, cowboy boots and so many more to pair with any outfit.

If you are the type of girl who wants to be comfortable in a pair of black leggings and a sweater, then try this pair from DSW. They will blend perfectly with the leggings and bring the whole outfit together. However, if you are planning on attending some country music concerts before the summer is over, be sure to buy a pair of those coveted cowboy boots like these. Pull out a cotton dress and your shades and you will be ready for that concert! Now, if you just want a simple everyday kind of boot, then try this brown pair from Madden Girl. They are a light shade of brown and will go very well with dark wash denim jeans.

Well Fashionista/os, you have heard it from yours truly, boots have become season-less and therefore it is completely acceptable to buy an entire closet’s worth of them. So what are you waiting for? Go spend your hard earned paycheck in style.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Ready, Set, Lace

One of my favorite spots in the hustle and bustle of the city is Central Park. The streets of New York City are hectic, crowded and loud. However, walk a few blocks and you will find serenity masked in nature and winding walking paths. The best thing I find about Central Park is that, despite common belief, it is the place to find the true born Fashionista/os. I mean those men and women who know how to make anything and everything a fashion statement without even trying. These people breathe a type of style unlike any other.

I saw this Fashionista and I knew I had to capture her ensemble. Clearly she is a nature fanatic, but that aside she knows how to dress for the weather. The heat wave has hit the city and paired together with the exhaust fumes from taxis and subway grates the air just sits on you. This Fashionista is keeping it cool in a pair of navy, high-waisted lace shorts and a coral blouse. There is nothing better in the summer than wearing bright colors and pairing them with darker neutrals. Coral and navy are a signature combination that is bound to work on any complexion.

Lace is a hot new trend in every area of fashion from footwear to headwear and everything in between. This Fashionista has taken the shorts approach and is rocking it! Forever 21 is a big supporter of this trend. Shoppers can find shorts in a wide variety of colors and styles. When wearing delicate shorts such as these, there are a multitude of ways to wear and style them. Some edgier Fashionistas throw them on with a graphic tee and combat boots. On the other hand, some such as this stylish lady, will pair the bottoms with a cute blouse and pumps or nice sandals. Ultimately it is up to you to decide how to wear them.

Depending on your style and outfit, keep jewelry and accessories to a minimum so that your bottoms can be the main pop of your look. Sometimes a few bangles and thread bracelets can do the trick.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Sun, Shade And Spectacles

Who would have guessed that the sun is finally shining in New York? After the past few weeks of scattered showers and thunderstorms, a sunny day is definitely a much needed surprise. However, the sun did not catch this Fashionista empty-handed. She was well prepared with her stylish sunglasses.

I’d have to say that my favorite aspect about sunglasses is that there are so many different shapes, styles and colors to pick from. Each and every pair has something special about them. At the end of the day, a pair of spectacles has the power to make or break an entire ensemble.

I love how this Fashionista paired a very feminine and delicate blouse with rockstar styled sunglasses. The two give off completely different attitudes and yet they complement each other effortlessly. Skinny jeans and simple flats are always a good choice when walking around the streets of New York. The look is versatile and is always casual. Headbands like the one this Fashionista has chosen are a perfect addition to an outfit for a sunny day. They keep your hair out of your face and offer a little pop of color (which is never a bad thing).

Now in terms of sunglasses, you need to find a style that fits your face and truly exemplifies your personality. If you are absolutely obsessed with the ’50s like I am, then a pair of cat eye styled sunglasses is right up your alley. If you are more into the incognito look, then try this pair of Oakleys. The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to a pair of shades. If you love the Beatles or anything hippie related, try out this pair from Forever 21. Lastly, if you are more of the retro type, this pair by Lauren Conrad is perfect for you.

As you can see, sunglasses come in a variety of styles. The best thing about this eyewear is that there is never just one type that is considered “the fashion.” Sure, every once in awhile there may be a trend that comes along, but since everyone has a different kind of face, a variety of sunglasses will always exist because one style does not fit all.

So, next time you head outside be sure to grab your favorite shades to protect your eyes from the shining sun. Be daring and try on every pair in the store. Experiment with bright colors, tortoise shell, even exotic shapes and sizes. You never know how great a pair may look until you try!

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Colors Of The Rainbow

Whenever I think of summer, I immediately envision maxi dresses, bikinis and sunglasses. However, this summer has been a little different so far. The heat wave has hit the Tri-State Area and there is no sign of it clearing up anytime soon. Therefore, we are seeing a ton of shorts, tanks and simple clothing as compared to previous years. No one wants to bother with long maxi dresses, skirts or even capris. It is just too scorching hot!

My favorite part about this little dilemma we are facing is that it forces people to change up their wardrobe. I mean, that is the best part about fashion right? This Fashionista has done just that. She has taken pink shorts and paired them with a more sophisticated styled blouse to create an interesting and unique ensemble. Her top is loose fitting and can easily be transformed from day to night. I also want to touch upon her multi-colored woven belt. Belts are great accessories and truly add a major impact to any outfit. Whether they are being used to cinch a waist, create a figure, keep your bottoms up or just add embellishment, they are a must-have for any Fashionista.

Now on to those pink shorts! Denim can easily get very boring very fast. In order to keep your style fresh and exciting, be sure to buy bottoms in an array of different colors. My favorites are yellow, peach and coral. A little pop of color can go a long way, especially when it comes to your lower half. Colored denim can also be used for great day to night outfits. By adding a pair of wedges and a nice blouse you can be ready to hit the dance floor with friends. Or, if you are playing it low key and simply hanging out, try pairing some neon denim with a graphic tee and flat sandals. There are so many variations of this style and all of them look amazing, so be sure to experiment with as many as you can.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Geometric Gems

As you may have read in one of my previous posts, I am an avid fan of any kind of accessory, especially jewelry. I believe that accessories make or break an outfit and truly add that extra spark to an ensemble. So, when I saw this Fashionista, there was no doubt in my mind that I had to stop her. I instantly fell in love with her coral geometric necklace. Geometric shapes and fun colors are two new trends in the jewelry department and can be dressed up or down.

The other interesting part about this Fashionista’s outfit was her bright, coral maxi skirt. The material was sheer and light so it flowed freely in the wind and gave off an easy spirited vibe. The white crop top is a great, basic statement piece that every girl should have in her closet. Crop tops are becoming more and more popular, especially when paired with maxi skirts and high-waisted shorts. This Fashionista had the right idea to keep her top half simple and monochromatic in order to highlight her intricate jewelry. Too many colors and patterns on a shirt can distract from the beauty of the jewels being worn.

In the same way, try to keep other accessories to a minimum. This Fashionista has chosen a leopard print watch as another detail. My golden rule is to never wear more than three pieces of jewelry at once. Any more than that just gets bulky and overwhelming.

If you are as obsessed with this new trend as I am, then be sure to head to Forever 21 and purchase some cute earrings like these ones. Geometric gems can be found on anything from necklaces to rings and even bracelets.These interesting shapes really create a bang for any outfit and are so versatile that they can be paired with practically anything. They come in a multitude of colors, sizes, shapes and styles so there is definitely one that will fit your personality perfectly. Try wearing a necklace like this one with a white cotton dress. Or, if you feel like being a little different, then try out this floral one that is a little more intricate in design. However you try it,  just make sure to experiment with this new trend!

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Laced With Joy

The best part about lunchtime in New York City is the number of Fashionistas you will find hanging out in the city’s great attractions, like Bryant Park. This Fashionista caught my eye right when I saw her white, lace top. Lace has been charging to the front line of trends over the past few weeks and I am so glad to have caught a photo to prove it.

Now, lace is not showing up in the usual ways in which we are accustomed to, such as trims or embellishments. Instead, the new style is allover, and it covers everything from tops to dresses and even shorts.

My favorite piece is the lace top because everyone, of all shapes and sizes, can wear it comfortably and stylishly. This Fashionista has paired a delicate white crochet top with a sophisticated black blazer and denim skinnies. This is a perfect ensemble for a casual day at work or a night out with friends. Her gold embellished sandals also intrigued me. They add that extra sparkle to her outfit and pull it altogether.

Lace should be considered a girl’s new best friend this season. The feminine addition can be found on everything a girl can possibly buy. Dresses are suddenly more delicate and shorts are less masculine. Tops, as you can see, are more interesting and eye-catching. When wearing something as pretty as these styles, have fun with it! This trend goes great with light and dark colors, loose or form fitting silhouettes and pretty much anything.

For example, a pair of shorts are great when paired with a fitted tank top that is tucked in. However, Fashionistas around the globe are also pairing them with oversized graphic tees. Mixing and matching is the best part about fashion. This Fashionista has done just that. Follow in her footsteps and you will be happy that you did. Grab a lace top and throw on some daisy dukes and cowboy boots. Or, try a maxi skirt with a pair of gladiator sandals. Either way, you will be chic as can be.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Red Rover, Red Rover

Ever since Taylor Swift came onto the scene a few years ago, she has been influencing the fashion styles of each and every one of us. First, it began with the country girl look. Lace dresses, cowgirl boots, big voluptuous curls and leather accessories were seen everywhere. Soon after, the fedora fad started and along with that came high-waisted shorts and the classic Keds styled sneaker. The Fashionista featured this week has truly embodied the typical Keds ensemble. Simple, not overdone and truly chic in every way.

Keds were first introduced into the world of fashion in 1916 and have steadily been gaining popularity and credibility over the past decades. My favorite thing about the sneaker is its versatility. During the ’80s, Keds were worn with leggings, leg warmers and oversized sweaters. During the ’90s, they became the shoe of choice with distressed denim jeans and rocker tees. Now, they are worn with high-waisted shorts, cotton floral dresses and maxi skirts. The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to these cute sneakers.

This Fashionista has chosen to be daring with a red colored pair of these shoes. Most of the time when thinking of Keds, a simple white sneaker comes to mind. However, today there are colored, polka dotted, striped, patterned and many other varieties of this shoe. There is a Keds sneaker for each and every occasion, personality and Fashionista. Not many shoes can live up to that statement these days.

The red color of the sneakers adds the perfect punch of color to this Fashionista’s outfit. She has kept everything pretty simple from her plain white T-shirt to her denim shorts so that the shoes are the main statement. I love the pop of color the shoes bring to her outfit because it is just enough without being too much.

When wearing bold footwear, be sure to pair it with a simple outfit. I have grown to love the simple white tee look that this Fashionista is rocking. White tees are great for those not so lazy, “lazy days.” A day when you feel like staying in your pajamas and being comfortable, but you still have to run errands is when you grab a white tee and some leggings and toss on your Keds.

Also, always have a great satchel with you. We Fashionistas have a lot to carry around so we need a good quality bag to keep all our necessities together.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Barefoot Floral Beauty

My favorite part about summer aside from the beautiful weather is barbecues. Every other day someone is having some sort of party. Luckily, I grabbed this Fashionista before she headed off to her second one of the day. She was “barbecue hopping” as I like to call it and she was doing so barefoot. She explained to me that with her neighbors’ house and hers being so close together and practically sharing a backyard, that there was no need for footwear.

Her bare feet, however, were not what caught my eye. Rather, it was the tropical look of her ensemble. I absolutely love her floral hair clip. Some may think that flower accessories should be kept in a drawer until a vacation somewhere on the beach, but I beg to differ. I find that the floral accessory truly adds a spark to her outfit and dresses it up a bit. Accessories, no matter what size, will always make an impact.

I also found her pink colored shorts interesting. Brighter colors are in this season. The color of her shorts are a nice medium in-between the pastels of spring and neons of last summer. Colored shorts are a great choice when attending a barbecue because you can be comfortable all day and can participate in Frisbee or volleyball games.

When wearing a colored bottom be sure to keep it simple on top, in terms of color, just as this Fashionista has done. She paired a black strapless top with her shorts to allow the pink color to be the focal point of the outfit. I admire how this outfit is made up of many simple articles of clothing but when they are put together they truly make an bang.

The last part of the outfit I want to touch upon is the Alex and Ani bracelet that adorns this Fashionista’s wrist. Alex and Ani charm bracelets are coming to the forefront of fashion this season, practically everyone is sporting at least one of these chic bangles. They are great for the warm months when heavy jewelry is cumbersome. Summer is the time to be relaxed and laid back, no one wants jewelry weighing him or her down in the heat. These bangles are perfect because they are lightweight and go with everything.

Next time a barbecue invitation arrives, be sure to go out and buy some fun hair accessories. I like typical bows and flowers, but if you are more daring try out funky headbands, barrettes or clips. Have fun with it and let your personality show through. Put your hair up, down, pull it back or do whatever you want with it. Accent a black maxi dress with a bright red flower clip for a romantic look or pair a white halter top with a pink flower headband for a sweet, feminine look. The possibilities are endless.