STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Do The Polka

It has been a beautiful week in Los Angeles as we’ve all been taking up every opportunity to soak up the sun. While participating in the annual Relay For Life in the city of Walnut, I came across this Fashionista next to the track of other participants walking for the fight against cancer. What I eventually discovered was that she was scheduled to sing as a performer for the rest of the afternoon. Talented and charitable, this Fashionista wore a lovely polka-dot dress and nude heels for her appearance on stage.

There seems to something about polka-dots that are flattering on dresses. This concept has reappeared many times throughout history in fashion magazines dating back to the 1950's and '60s. Lately there has been a reemergence of the iconic pin-up girl look. Since the start of 20th century, the signature polka-dot dress has become a hug hit as celebrities such as Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor popularized the print. Even in the 1990’s polka-dots made a glamorous reappearance in the movie Pretty Woman during a scene when Julia Roberts attends an event arm in arm with the 90’s heartthrob, Richard Gere. That is why it is no surprise that even today polka-dots are making yet another comeback.

The classic polka-dot dress is perfect to wear for any occasion. In my opinion versatility is key when shopping for clothes. You want to be able to throw a summer dress on without having to look overdressed. A pair of nude heels are reliable because not matter what the situation is you can’t go wrong when wearing them.  For this Fashionista they compliment her dress and gives a chance to show off her outfit. Her shoes are simple and the heels are not too high. It is apparent that the polka-dot dress is timeless. You can get this look at American Apparel which is dotted and fitted to perfection. Or make a splash with a cute swimsuit for summer from Anything But Water.

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STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Do the Polka

Don't worry; you don't need to know how to dance to follow this week's style advice. Polka dots may have childish connotations (Minnie Mouse, anyone?), but when the silhouette is mature, this print is the definition of chic.

Today's Fashionista drew me in because of her subtle mixing of polka dots, along with other patterns and colors. She is at the forefront of this exploding polka dot trend. Where did this trend originate you may ask? In my opinion, Marc Jacobs can be labeled as the driving force. During his fall 2011 ready-to-wear show he pared different sized polka dot prints on structured, sexy forms for a result that was equal parts authoritarian and whimsical. Following the fall shows, the look can be seen all over the fashion set.

A classic pleated, polka dot skirt sets the mood for this Fashionista's cheery ensemble. Creeping off her skirt and down her legs, polka dots extend to cover her entire bottom half. Matching each element of her outfit is not a concern for today's Fashionista. She wears a long khaki jacket with a light blue pinstripe shirt, providing the perfect foil for the neutral base of her ensemble. She brings home the look with a brilliant red patterned scarf and thick rimmed tortoise shell glasses. Even though she is wearing so many different pieces, this Fashionista is the picture of eclectic ease.

You can be the picture of ease too, just keep in mind a few guidelines. When mixing large with small polka dots, keep the colors similar or neutral. Or try wearing polka dots of the same size in different colors. A prim black and white top with burgundy trousers gives the eye plenty of spots to look at while still appearing classic.

We all know to cross our T's and dot our I's, but there is now another thing we need not forget. It's time to dot your clothes!

 

 

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STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Do the Polka

Fashionistos take note: why not give your everyday striped shirt a rest and mix things up with a different pattern? Polka-dots are the coolest print around and this Fashionisto shows it’s not just for the girls with his kooky monochrome spotted shirt.

The Fashionisto’s monochrome shirt is very versatile and can be styled up or down, depending on the occasion. This Fashionisto styles his attention-grabbing shirt in a casual manner for day, letting the shirt do all the talking by combining it with classic black straight leg jeans. The subdued colour pallet makes for a stylish statement, even down to the footwear with the Fashionisto’s quirky monochrome canvas shoes. Try Vans for the original monochrome skater shoe, which gives any look the edgy cool of street style.

Likewise, the shirt could be easily dressed up, buttoned to the neck and tucked into skinny tailored trousers with a sharply tailored jacket and brogues. This polka-dot shirt from ASOS is equally versatile and can be worn in both formal and casual contexts.

As we move towards winter, this Paul Smith polka-dot jumper will keep the cold at bay. A statement in itself or you could mix things up with clashing colours and prints for a look that will brighten even the gloomiest of days.

This Fashionisto adds a splash of colour to his monochrome ensemble with an eye-catching turquoise watch. Colourful, toy-inspired watches are a massive trend for both Fashionistas and Fashionistos. Toy Watch has some fashionable chunky, colourful watches that will liven up any outfit.


 

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