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Hi from Paris!! I finally found a way to charge my laptop, and I’m back in action. I haven’t been on my laptop in a few days because I didn’t have a charger, and therefore wasn’t able to post my PFW shows yet! So far, Paris has been the adventure of a lifetime. I arrived on Thursday, and my driver from Blacklane picked me up and dropped me off at my hotel. I went right from the airplane to lunch and a few shows! This is my first Paris Fashion Week, and it’s been super cool having the opportunity to experience FW in a new city. Fashion Week here is crazy different from New York, where everyone who knows someone or is a “blogger” gets entrance to the shows. As expected, Paris is pretentious, elite, and extraordinary. Celebs like Olivia Palermo, Ciara, and Kelly Rowland have been at almost all of the shows I’ve gone to, and street style photographers have been snapping pics of the major celebs at every opportunity they get.

Barbara Bui has been one of my favorite shows so far. I sat across from Olivia Palermo, and I could tell she’d wear the majority of the outfits that strutted down the runway. I would too. The clothing was very Parisian: with knee-high boots and lots of plaid. Models were edgy, with dark makeup to match the equally edgy clothing. It’s quite nice to be seeing color on the runway, and not just primarily neutrals like I was expecting. After all, everyone in Paris is wearing black all of the time! Some of Barbara’s clothing was a little too out there for me to wear during my everyday life, but it’d be an experiment to rock some of the outfits during photo shoots.

No one really wears the clothes from Fashion Week in the real world, anyway. 😉

Hope you’re tuning in on Twitter + Instagram for updated pictures from each show! Galliano and Givenchy up next today!

XO,

Miss Fashionista

As written by Nate Botehlo, on The Muse. 

    The strangest thing happened to me the other day. Something I never thought was possible… I was speaking with a VP of a very prestigious company and I noticed his footwear. I had to take a double take, and I began to slowly understand a trend I had, for so long, missed.

    Before I explain, I’ll give you some backstory… I would occasionally see well-dressed men in business casual (wearing Nike running shoes), and I would be puzzled. It didn’t make sense to me. Why would I wear my workout shoes with a blazer? Shouldn’t you be wearing leather dress shoes, not workout kicks? I’d rather wear penny loafers or some oxfords, personally.

    Then I ran into this individual and my perspective changed. I think it had something to do with how long I was talking with the person. I’ve always seen this style in passing or flashing by my eyes on my Tumblr feed, but never have I spent an hour observing the style. The more I looked at the intricacies of his outfit, the more I realized that it totally worked. It shows a sporty style with a functional twist. I feel like it says “I’m a badass professional who is active and healthy.” After hanging out with this guy more, and beginning to understand this booming trend, I absolutely love this look. It’s a look both men and women are adapting into their daily life, and I’m not opposed to it. There’s one caveat to this trend: you HAVE to buy a pair just for work. No, you can’t wear your smelly spin shoes to the office.

Trust me, your co-workers will thank you.

I’m not one to follow trends. I much prefer to wear styles that don’t go out of style.  One style that never goes out of style is trench coats. As spring approaches, I see people beginning to wear trench coats out and about in the city. I’ve begun hunting online to try and find the best deal on a coat, and this year, I’m thinking investing in a high quality coat is the way to go.

Similar to expensive denim, trench coats are effortless, versatile, and bound to remain in your closet for longer than one year. Instead of buying a cheap one from Express or Target that will probably break after several wears, save yourself some time and energy by buying one from Michael Kors or Talbots. If you’re really in the mood to splurge, go Burberry. Though that’s definitely not the plan for the majority of us. I like this one by Michael Kors, and this one by Alexander Wang. They’re not unreasonably expensive, but they’re by two brands we know offer quality products.

Remember, a trench coat is not a pea coat. It should have a belt that ties around the middle, and usually comes in colors like nude, grey, or black. I’m a fan of the skin colored style, but that’s because I’m pale.

Scroll through the slideshow above for some outfit inspiration. Whether you’re in the mood to dress like Carrie Bradshaw and throw a trench on top of your McQueen gown, or simply have a jacket to run to the store in, trench coats are suitable for everyone. Even mini Harper Beckham’s!

Xo,

Miss Fashionista

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This post has been written by the lovely Lauren, who works for A Life in the Fashion Lane remotely from New Jersey! 

1. Pastels

The first trend I saw on the runway is pastel colors. Pastels aren’t usually a color we keep in our wardrobe during this time of year, but it’s a great change of pace from neutrals. Pastels give warmth to collections when the base color is grey/black. With the pantone colors of the year being rose quartz and serenity, I wasn’t surprised to see an influx of pastels featured on the runway, and continue from summer into fall. Some people look at pastel colors and immediately get nostalgic for their childhood, which I totally relate to. We all used to wear light and fun colors when we were younger, so what’s stopping us from doing so now? Michael Kors RTW successfully incorporated these beautiful colors into the collection, and made a definite splash on the runway.

2. Prints!

Most of us have a tendency to steer clear of prints and new shapes/colors because we’re afraid of what they will look like on our body and how people will react. Success in fashion comes from taking risks. Though I’m not excited about the return of animal prints, I love the idea of polka dots and floral prints coming back into style. We’ve also learned mixing prints is a popular idea, as long as you do it in a tasteful fashion. Altuzarra’s Pre-Fall collection featured models mixing prints, and we die for the look above. If you’re nervous about mixing prints for the first time, break up your outfit by putting a belt in the middle. You’d be surprised at how much of a difference this one little trick will make!

3. Lace

Lace is a trend that will never go out of style. It brings a level of elegance to every outfit that you wouldn’t get from any other style. Lace dresses, skirts and shirts always look elegant, and immediately fancy up any look. It’s a trend we love (and Alexa loves) because she can wear it to the office and directly to an event/dinner following, and she’s all about versatile styles. Reem Acra succeeds at the lace trend every single season, and the dress above is no different. Lace looks fancy in clothing, along with accessories like gloves and tights. Don’t shy away from it because it has a tendency to be an “old lady” trend!

4. Socks + Heels

Our girl, Gigi, nails this trend. Everything about this outfit is on point. In an effort to bring back a popular 50’s trend, designers are incorporating socks and heels into their lines this season. It’s a playful look that many would be skeptical of actually trying, but after seeing examples on the runway, many are excited to try this out. Tommy Hilfiger, known for his quirky and nautical vibes, was one of the first designers to show this trend on the runway at this past NYFW. When you don’t want to wear heavy winter boots to stay warm in the fall, you simply put a pair of thin socks on with your stilettos and you’re ready to go!

5. Metallic

Metallic, latex, patent leather and vinyl all made comebacks this season on the runway. Worn in the past by celebs like Britney Spears and the Spice Girls, it’s not a trend I was anticipating to come back around, but I’m glad it is. I prefer it in muted tones, vs. full on shine, and designers seemed to think that too. It’s not exactly an office friendly outfit, so stay on the safe side when incorporating it into work style. Don’t be afraid to go all out for date night or a GNO: metallic will get all the boys asking for your number!

Ann Taylor skirt, Primark boots, Banana Republic vest

I have not posted in 4 days. I made a massive mistake on Friday and accidentally deleted the whole past 10 months of pictures from my iPhone. It’s been a rough few days. No, none of it was backed up or on my laptop. Remember: backup via iCloud, don’t press restore, and just don’t have a cell phone.

In an attempt to move on and try to put my past few months back together, I went out with my friend Nick yesterday to shoot in the Commons for some new pics. It’s been an absolutely beautiful weekend weather wise, which has made my picture situation slightly less depressing. If I was image-less and it was raining, I’d probably be crying in my bed right now. But life goes on! No pictures means 1) an excuse to eat excess amounts of chocolate 2) make new memories.

This isn’t an outfit I’m totally thrilled to have been shot in, though it matched well with the edgy vibe I was going for when wandering through Cambridge earlier in the day. A different friend and I went to take pictures on railroad tracks, and the outfit is edgy and bold. I never would’ve been caught wearing all black when I was younger, but I guess you get older and all of a sudden black is the new pink. And anything sleeveless? Count me in. Man, I love looking like a biker dude that just left the gym.

Happy Sunday!

Xo,

Miss Fashionista

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I actually do. DC, you’ve got my heart. I’ve been able to go for a few days over the past couple of months, and every time I’m in the city, I fall more in love. Even though I only get to be in the city for a tiny amount of time (literally 48 hours is the max I’ve ever been in DC!) I still have time to walk around, visit new coffee shops, and explore.

For this segment with Fox DC, I decided to stay at the Fairmont Georgetown. I’ve never stayed at a Fairmont property before, but I’ve heard fantastic reviews from friends and colleagues. Similar to a Mondrian or Four Seasons, the Fairmont was going to have to seriously impress me for it to be on the same level of other 5-star properties.

And…the Fairmont did. It seriously freakin’ did. If I could choose a second home, out of the 100s of hotels I stay at per year, I’d choose the Fairmont Georgetown. Actually, nothing went wrong. Something always goes wrong in my life. The Fairmont was the most spectacular property I’ve stayed at over the past year, including everything from customer service to amenities to food. In my opinion, hotel food usually sucks, regardless of whether the property is high-end or not. I was shocked (not kidding) at how fantastic the food at Juniper was. I tried breakfast, lunch, and dinner out, and everything was up to par. My room service came within 30 minutes, toasty and seasoned.

My breakfast showed up right on time for my hair stylist and myself, and the banana bread was the moistest banana bread I’ve ever tasted! I wanted to sit in my beautiful bed all day and eat that banana bread, but some of us gotta work, ya know.

I even met a super sweet fan in the hotel lobby following my shoot, and she was a local fashionista eating lunch at Juniper for a meeting. It’s THE place to go in Georgetown. I made my way to Soul Cycle down the street, Sweetgreen for a quick salad, and Blowout Bar DC following Soul Cycle for a quick blowout before my shoot the next morning. The Fairmont is located literally in the heart of the city, with amazing shops and restaurant in walking distance.

If you’re in DC for pleasure or business, book a room at the Fairmont Georgetown. Grab brunch in their beautiful hall on Sunday morning with the whole family, or a quick drink at their exquisite lobby bar. If you’re on the go like I always am, choose one of their lunch boxes for a handy lunch on the road.

This property is worth every penny, and I’m definitely not one to throw those few words out there too often!

Xo,

Miss Fashionista

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During Fashion Week, I usually have trouble fitting in time to eat and relax between shows. I’m running around all of the time, whether it’s to a meeting or to a show, which means food usually gets forgotten about until 10 PM when I’m sitting in bed realizing I haven’t eaten.

One of my go-to places to stop by during Fashion Week is Laduree in Soho. Based out of Paris, Laduree has now expanded to New York City, and in the future, LA and Chicago. If you’re looking for a fancy and chic brunch/ coffee stop, consider Laduree your new best friend. Between the tastiest macarons, flakiest croissants, and richest almond milk lattes, it’s only expected that I spend my time lounging here while waiting for my next show.

For brunch, we ordered lots of coffee, croissants, macarons, and french toast with an omelette. The fresh whipped cream and raspberry sauce that came alongside the french toast was absolutely delicious, as were all of the mini macarons.

After Laduree, I headed to the Concept Korea show which was one of the only shows I actually enjoyed watching this season. The collection was stunning, and I adored the edgy yet glamorous vibe of every piece showcased. Or maybe I was just on a macaron high. I’m not quite sure.

Xo,

Miss Fashionista

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Sorry for the delay in posting- the past few days have been crazy. After going straight from DC to NYC for fashion week, I met my best friends here in the city to begin my 9th season at New York Fashion Week! New York City is supposed to be getting the absolute worst cold front, and I have to tell you, going around to fashion shows in this weather is complete hell. Throw away your heels ladies, and take out your Nike sneaks and thermal socks. You won’t regret it.

I haven’t been too keen on any of the shows I’ve been to so far, but Concept Korea and Banana Republic have stood out. I went to TOME this morning which I will put up on the blog later this week, though Concept Korea was still a better show in my opinion. It seems as if designers are copying other designers this season, as well as putting clothing on the runway that literally no one would wear! What’s the point of fashion if the clothing is way too ugly to wear to your office or school?

The Banana Republic presentation was held at The Highline Stages in Meatpacking, where it always is. I always look forward to the Banana Republic presentation, and they didn’t dissapoint this year. Between a stylish yet intimate crowd, almond milk lattes and macarons, and the HOTTEST male models I’ve ever done, BR outdid themselves.

The clothes? Modern with a vintage vibe. Peacoats with 4 buttons, dark greens and blacks, and kitten heels were a few of the memorable trends showcased. Have we seen a few of these trends in store before? Yes, but that’s one of the reasons people continue to shop at Banana Republic. They choose timeless trends that never go out of style. My mom would wear all of the clothes, and I totally would too. But maybe that’s just because I’m an old soul.

Xo,

Miss Fashionista

Twitter || Instagram

Hair and makeup by the unreal Lauren Diana MUA. See her site here. Some of the best hair and makeup I’ve ever had on a shoot. No joke! Are you seeing this smokey eye? I meannnnn….who wants to be my Valentine? 😉 

My dress is by Camille La Vie! They’ve got a huge selection of prom, wedding and regular dresses on their site and in their store located in Glendale, CA. I’m such a fan of this mini dress- so was the whole Fox team!

Good morning from the lovely Washington, DC! I just wrapped up another incredible segment with Fox 5 DC, this time, we talked about Valentine’s Day gifts on a budget. Whether you’ve got a special someone or not (the or not part for all of you single ladies, myself included, out there) Valentine’s Day is a holiday everyone can celebrate. Don’t shy away from buying your friends and family gifts because you aren’t necessarily “dating”. We all deserve to be LOVED!

I went on a hunt to find the best gifts to give everyone this season. Here’s my list:

1. Mochidoki

I bet you didn’t know you could buy artisan mochi online now, did you? To be honest, I’m slightly obsessed with this brand. I ain’t got no boyfriend, but I think I’m going to treat myself to some mochi on V-Day. Why the heck not? For $15, you’ve got the cutest mochi that tastes good AND is insta-worthy. Order now to get in time for the holiday!

2. Apothic Wine

Since we’ve all got parents, grandparents, older siblings and what not, gifting wine is a fantastic idea this holiday season. Even though I’m not drinking myself, I found a rad brand of wine that’s sexy enough to gift your boyfriend/girlfriend, yet appropriate enough to gift your parents. Apothic, known for their unique blends and bold flavors, has a line called Apothic Crush (come on, what sounds better than that) that they’ve brought back to heat up this V-Day on every level. A decadent red blend that combines red fruit flavors with caramel and a velvety smooth mouthfeel is what you can expect from buying your loved wine wine from here.

3. Heat Holders

I’ve been buying/wearing heat holders since I was a little girl, and since I’m such a huge fan of the brand, it only makes sense that I gift heat holders to my loved ones. Their extensive line of products, from hats to socks and outerwear, will protect you this winter and keep you nice and toasty for that date night walk. The socks are 7 times warmer than regular socks, and 3 times warmer than regular thermal socks.

4. La Mer Watches

I posted about La Mer last month, and since I fell head-over-heels for the brand, I had to include them in my V-Day roundup. The LA based brand is sold at Shopbop and Nordstrom, and is known for their celebrity following like Christina Milan and Jamie Chung. Customize your own online on their site!

5. JCPenney

One of my go-to brands, JCP, has something for everyone and every price point this Valentine’s Day. If you’re shopping for a lucky guy, buy men’s accessories by Michael B. Strahan and J. Ferrar, exclusive to JCP. For the ladies out there, invest in the Ambrielle intimates collection, also exclusive to JCP. JCPenney seriously has something for everyone, even the college kids on a college budget!

 6. Bath and Body Works

All of you guys are familiar with Bath and Body Works if you’ve ever stepped foot in a commercial mall. Bath and Body Works has a huge selection of V-day appropriate gifts for those on a budget. I totally love their gift set, which has just about everything your lady needs in it. If you’re looking for some more specific items, try a few of their specific lines: Paris Amour, Japanese Cherry Blossom, and Mad About You. All of the products are going to make your girl smell good and smile!

See the segment HERE! New York Fashion Week up next!

Xo,

Miss Fashionista

Twitter || Instagram

JOA top, Miilla pants, Primark heels

*Wishing I had remembered to put on my Fresh Trends jewelry for this outfit- it would’ve made such a perfect addition!

I miss California already. I landed yesterday night, and a snow storm has already hit the East Coast. Are you kidding me? I was all ready to wake up and go home, and now I’m stuck taking the bus home hoping I don’t get trapped in a mound of snow. Ughhhhh. I need to move to CA.

Therefore, I’m going to reminisce on my trip to Malibu with my friend Alix. We did a ton of research, and decided Malibu Farm was the place to eat brunch at. Alix is a Cali local, though had only eaten at Malibu Farm once prior. We were right, to say the least. I sat across from Anne Hathaway, next to Jaden Smith, and across the pier was Kylie Jenner’s whole friends group. Apparently, Malibu is the place to spend a lazy Saturday. For brunch, we went totally HAM. Malibu Farm has organic, local cuisine they serve up, and that’s my kinda food. Alix and I were too late for brunch, so we got an assortment of brunch/ lunch foods to try.

The acai bowl with gluten-free granola is a must, paired with a fresh watermelon juice on the side. And yes, every food item and table is totally #InstagramWorthy. We ordered the salmon salad, which was basic but tasty. The cauliflower pizza and quesadilla were absolutely too die for. I make cauliflower pizza, and it has little comparison to the one Malibu Farm shelled out. It feels like you’re actually EATING real pizza, yet the dish is gluten-free and paleo!

For dessert, we opted for their lavender cake and frozen yogurt. The frozen yogurt was a total win. What’s even better is our waiter 1) didn’t question the amount of food we ordered 2) left us alone to sit and eat for hours! That was my first time in Malibu, so all I wanted was a restaurant I could spend hours nibbling away on food at and adoring the view.

After brunch, Alix and I drove to LA where we checked into the Beverly Hilton and got cozy for a while before heading out for dinner/clubbing. Lucky for us, the SAG awards were going on on Saturday, so we couldn’t get a table to eat at literally anywhere in the city! We ended up waiting, and going back to the ultra exclusive Sunset Tower Hotel around 10:30 PM and dining next to Jessica Lowndes and a ton more actors. That’s just the CA lifestyle, I guess.

Xo,

Miss Fashionista

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