STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Welcome To The Jungle

Like most things in life moderation is key, especially when it comes to wearing animal prints. Unless you are headed to a jungle themed party, I highly recommend keeping your trip to the wild side in check or else you may end up looking Tarzan chic rather than Cruella Deville chic.

I suggest taking a cue from this Fashionista this fall; she was spotted rocking just the right amount of print in Washington Square Park. She uses animal print accessories to breathe life into her casual look.

What I like about her choice of a cheetah print head scarf and giraffe printed bag is that she mixes two different prints together. Mixing and matching prints has been very popular this past year and this Fashionista’s mix is just right (read here for advice on mixing prints by the Man Repeller).

In the same way that you should not be afraid of a little bit of color, do not be afraid to add a bit of animal print to your wardrobe this fall. Whether it be adding this fun cheetah print scarf to a simple white T-shirt and jeans, or by adding a bold animal print top or skirt for an updated daytime look.

To achieve this Fashionista’s look is easy. Try adding this J.Crew snakeskin printed sweater or this snakeskin printed pencil skirt to your wardrobe to make a statement. If you are not feeling that bold add this Eugenia Kim turban headband for those days that you skip washing your hair. You can follow this Fashionista’s lead by adding this Michael Kors tote bag, which would be great for class.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Welcome To The Jungle

Leopard print has proven itself over and over again to be a trend that never dies and I’d say the majority of us are more than okay with that. With recent appearances in Rachel Zoe’s Spring 2012 Ready-to-Wear, Diesel Black Gold and Giabattista Valli’s Resort 2012 Collections — it’s pretty clear that this ferocious print is here to stay.

Leopard print can be found in a multitude of forms — from shoes, bags, tops and even makeup. This Fashionista chose to showcase her wild side through her beautifully structured blazer. She paired her jacket with a bold, red-orange free flowing top, which complements the fitted jacket perfectly, while contrasting the top with dark-washed skinny jeans. To tie everything together, she topped off her vivid outfit with neutral colored accessories such as a simple feather necklace and nude pumps.

To get this Fashionista’s look, start by searching for your perfect leopard statement piece. To put a twist on her look, try switching the focus of your outfit by slipping on a pleated leopard print skirt with a brightly colored jacket and add in a neutral colored tee and lace-up oxfords. Match the hues of your skirt and flats with a bronze-gold colored filigree fringe necklace to complete the outfit. Like this Fashionista, you will project an effortlessly chic aura when blending the bold jungle cat pattern with a vibrant shade. Don’t be afraid to embrace your inner wild side.

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STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Welcome To The Jungle

Wearing animal prints during the daytime is a tricky game to play, and more often than not the pattern ends up reading less chic and more cheap — don’t lose hope, Fashionistas! Honing your ability to take this print out of the jungle and into the real world is a skill that will benefit you greatly through the animal print craze and beyond.

There are two buzz words to keep in mind when searching for an animal print to incorporate into your wardrobe: silhouette and styling. Selecting a flattering silhouette is of the utmost importance; too tight or too short and your print immediately becomes daytime inappropriate. Look for an airy blouse or dress in a light silk blend because this fabric will float away from the body and create a beautiful shape. Correctly styling your print is the second most important step in the process of creating a stylish, luxe daytime look. Keep accessories light and in a color family that complements the print rather than distracts. Neutral shades of beige, gold, black and white are generally safe bets when selecting shoes, jewelry and accompanying clothing pieces.

This Fashionista beautifully displays how to wear an animal print while keeping things classic and feminine. She builds her outfit around a flowy J.Crew blouse; the high collar and delicate buttons increase whimsy while laying down the foundation for a girly look. She adds depth with a nude cardigan, dark wash jeans and rich brown boots. A classic horn toned watch and delicate gold necklace seal the deal on this outfit, weaving sparkling touches of visual interest throughout.

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STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Welcome to the Jungle

This week's Fashionista is modeling a trend recently spotted on the University of Rhode Island's campus: faux fur vests. This Fashionista stood out in the crowd however, because of her choice to wear an eggplant colored tunic and sleek leggings. I would totally wear this outfit! If you are looking to buy a faux fur vest, trying looking for this one from Nordstrom.

Another aspect of her ensemble that I love is how she chose to accessorize. Her elephant necklace complements her fur vest, both playing into the “jungle feel” her outfit exudes. Her simple, but layered bangles are also a nice addition to her look.

Her bag, a backpack-inspired tote, is an item that is so trendy this season. I have been seeing more and more Fashionistas embracing this piece and carrying one around campus. I recommend investing in one. They can be inexpensive, and are a good alternative to the popular Longchamp totes everyone has. Try this one from Urban Outfitters.

Finally, as you may have realized by now, I am obsessed with boots this season. I have serious boot-envy every time I see a Fashionista (or Fashionisto) wearing a pair of boots I want. This Fashionista's are a unique color. Many Fashionistas will wear dark brown or black boots. If you like her boots, I recommend this pair from Bakers.

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STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Welcome to the Jungle

There comes a point where your fashion magazine of choice says to store away your animal print pieces for another season. Well I’m here to announce that it’s time to unleash the beast and make a statement with those darling creatures. It’s something that adds a lot of fun and flair. It’s a bit of an adoration for things like Josie and the Pussycats, Dolce and Gabbana, and your first moments at Limited Too. Although when you accessorize and style it effortlessly you come out with something that is chic. This Fashionista amps up her casual appeal with a leopard print shawl, black mini, and buckle slips. Her downtown cool is paired with her Ray Bans and caramel toned shoulder bag. When it comes to doing any type of print you want to accentuate it and allow it to have a voice with an outfit. With neutral colors and handsome accessories this look is welcoming and not overwhelming.

Halloween is over everyone so let’s keep it wearable, comfortable, and interesting. Animal print comes in all shapes and sizes which allows you to express your inner lioness in different variations. If you’re wanting subtle cameos go for detailed shoes and belts to make black garments pop. For something cozy find awesome cardigans and scarves to go with your cords and boots. With flirty nights there are dresses and breezy tops that can be matched with blazers and even transition for day wear. There is definitely a piece for everyone to prowl proudly in the city.

Welcome to November, welcome to Los Angeles, and welcome to the jungle

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STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Welcome to the Jungle

One of my favorite trends for the fall is the exotic, sexy look of urban safari chic. The neutral colors and multiple shapes flatter every skin color and body type. You can channel your inner wild side while making this trend sexy. I caught this Fashionista coming out of the South Campus Diner and needed a closer look at her safari jacket. Purchased at Ann Taylor Loft, the twill four-pocket belted khaki jacket with slate colored cuffed sleeves was fresh and crisp. As pictured by this Fashionista, the jacket is worn open to reveal a black tunic and splendid leggings. This look is chic, polished and ultra-feminine when worn belted and cinched at the waist.

Dating back to the '60s Yves Saint Laurent dared to send this trend down the runway and it has been reappearing on runways (and in our closets) ever since. The safari jacket is a trend we all love and can relate to. It can be mixed and matched with items already in your wardrobe. Any Fashionista can pull of this look flawlessly and wear it to class with leggings, tights, jeans or trousers. This trend is suitable for both daytime and nighttime, adding a killer pair of heels to the ensemble will instantly take this look from laid-back casual to laid-back luxe. Statement flats or ankle laced-up boots will keep this style care-free and casual. Aside from its versatility, (this Fashionista revealed her multiple pockets come in handy for her iPod, cell phone and car keys) this jacket is a key item that every Fashionista should own for the fall. Noteworthy styles can be found at every store from Old Navy to Barney’s. Neiman Marcus has a great army green silk cargo jacket with drawstring waist and for a great steal check out this army green safari jacket from windsor.com (spare your wallet without sacrificing your style). Word to the wise Fashionista, shop around and find the best urban safari inspired jacket to wear this fall because this trend is bold and great for the cold!