I'm Obsessed Thank You Very Much - Cape Jackets, Kimonos, and Full Printed Skirts

Since I've been a bit slow in posting lately, I thought I'd give you a triple whammy today! Three of my latest obsessions. One of my biggest spring obsessions is the cape jacket. My favorites are more blazer material than outerwear material but that makes them perfect for spring and summer. They are a fun twist on a traditional jacket. Another spring topper that I can't get enough of is the kimono (a modified version of the traditional). I'm more rocker than boho but I love that you can take these pretty jackets, add them to jeans and throw on a tee and great shoes and you're instantly chic. I can't get enough of full printed skirts. I love the ones with big full gathers or pleats in fun prints (not your traditional florals).

Victoria Beckham Blazer Style Cape

When I first spied this tuxedo style cape jacket from Victoria Beckham, I was in love. It's different and so chic. As usual, size and price restrictions ensured that it would never be mine.  Over $3,000, nope! I went in search of a less expensive version. I found some great options but nothing in my size. My poor mom has now been begged and tasked with helping me to make one.



Click on the pictures for buying information.

 

My next obsession is the kimono. This modern version is a bit of a departure from the traditional kimono. It comes in fun prints, florals, embroidery or with fringe. I picture mine with cut offs or white jeans for summer. I'd add a simple tee or a tank and some cute sandals. The two kimonos in the top left and bottom right corners are definitely on my list.



Click on the pictures for buying information.

 

Last but certainly not least is the full, printed skirt. I fell hard for this skirt from tibi. The graphic print and the full, midi style, had me smitten. Once again size (only up to a 12) and price (over $600) prevented me from ever purchasing this beauty.

tibi Splash Skirt

While searching for full printed skirts I found the amazing (black, white, and gray) skirt on the right, from ModCloth!  It's very similar to the tibi skirt, it's affordable at only $69 and it comes in my size! In fact it comes in sizes small to 3x!



Click on the pictures for buying information.

 

I know the gray skirt in the center doesn't look like it's printed.  The print is pressed into the fabric, you just have to click on the link and look at the skirt up close. It's fantastic!

Well there you have it, some of my spring obsessions. A cape jacket is on the DIY list, the kimonos and skirt will be on order soon.

What are your spring obsessions?

Fall 2012 Runway Trends - Brocade & Embroidery

Another installment in the Fall 2012 Runway Trend series, today we are focusing on the brocade and embroidery trend.  I've heard this trend referred to as brocade, embroidery and baroque.  No matter what you call it, the trend focuses on detailed stitched patterns and luxurious fabric. My favorite is the brocade skirt.  It's beautiful and versatile.  Dress it up with a blouse and heels or down with a t-shirt and flats. You can also carry the trend into jewelry with a statement necklace or a beautiful ring or cuff.

A pretty brocade dress will be timeless.  With a simple change of shoes and accessories, you will be able to update it for years to come.  A single brocade or embroidered piece can be the stand out of your entire outfit.  I own the Alexandria necklace by Stella & Dot (upper right corner).  I wear it constantly to work with my dress clothes and on the weekend with a t-shirt and jeans.  Every time I put it on, someone asks me about it.  You can even make your brocade piece look rock n' roll, just add that other fall trend, leather.

How will you be wearing this trend?

Fall 2012 Runway Trends - My Favorites

It has to be all the talk of NY Fashion Week and my fond memories of back to school shopping that has me in the mood for fall fashion.  It's certainly not the weather here in the DC area.  It's super humid and supposed to be in the mid to high 80's all week. There is no sign of fall in sight.  This weekend I took a little trip to my favorite outlet, Talbots, in search of bargains.  I found two items that were on my list, a white blazer (originally $224 for $24.99!) and some fun ankle pants (mine are plaid).  I also snagged a fantastic silver sequin top.  It wasn't on my list but at $24 I couldn't pass it up. My shopping trip and the pile of September issue fashion mags on my coffee table inspired this post.

There are tons of trends on tap, as usual.  These are some of my favorites. I'm already embracing the military, white and plaid trends.  A leather skirt is on my list and I spied a brocade skirt at Talbots that I should have purchased but didn't.  I may have to go back for it.  Bordeaux is an easy trend to embrace.  Graphic prints can be done in with a single piece like a top, dress or skirt instead of an entire outfit.  A bit of menswear is fun, try a jacket, hat or some oxfords. You don't have to go full on Victor Victoria to wear this tread well.

This week, I'll be sharing my tips on how to fit these fall trends to your own personal style.