Perfect Spring Break Hat to Pack

For those of you young fashionistas planning and packing for spring break trips, you will need to have everything that's needed to lay on the beach and do some exploring. Although you may be excited to get rid of your pale winter skin, you’ll need to look extra trendy when it’s time to protect it. Bloomingdale's has a wide array of hats to keep your face safe from the sun, for when you think you may have gotten too much. Some of you may be into big, floppy hats, but we recommend a simple and chic fedora. 

August Accessories has created the perfect paper fedora with a black bow. You can wear this fedora on the beach when the sun is starting to get in your way, or in a city while you are taking a nice shopping trip. The fedora is only $48, and it will be a great purchase before your spring break trip! You can head to Bloomingdale’s official website, or drive to the nearest store nearest to find the one that fits you best. 

Text Sydney Ruby 

Image Bloomingdale's

Agyness Deyn Teams Up With Dr. Martens Footwear

After starring in two of the British brand’s campaigns, model Agyness Deyn will collaborate with Dr. Martens for a 2012 limited edition collection. Deyn, who's known for her androgynous appeal, bought her first pair of Docs in her early teen years. This is not Deyn’s first collaboration, as she has also designed a line of shirts for Uniqlo. 


“This brand is a great fit for me, as it stands for strong character and being able to shape your own personal identity,” she told WWD. 


Dr. Martens have maintained their appeal since they became a staple of nineties fashion. We’re excited to see what kinds of designs Agyness Deyn will launch with the brand. The line is supposed to launch in time for fall 2012, and it will be available worldwide.


Text Emily Thomas
Sources and Images WWD, Huffington Post

Carolee Lux 40th Anniversary Legacy Collection

This upcoming spring, Bloomingdale's will offer Carloee Lux's 40th anniversary Legacy collection! The collection is full of unique yet incredible jewelry that is inspired by the best pieces of the last four decades.

The Legacy collection contains different stones and shapes, pearls, and even look-alike coins. Not only is the collection diverse, but for each piece sold from the collection, the company will donate $5 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. This Carloee collection is made for everyone and the jewelry can be worm by anyone. All pieces range from $25 to $250, depending on what you select. Visit Bloomingdale’s website to purchase a Legacy piece, so you don't have to wait until the jewelry brand's 50th anniversary!

Text Sydney Ruby 
Image Bloomindale's

Real Men Wear Scarves

Winter may finally be making its well-anticipated exit to make way for the warm spring weather. With it goes plenty of great accessories and other articles of clothing.

Essentially, the concept of layering goes right out the window when spring hits. You hang up your heavy coats, tuck away your wool socks, and bench your sweaters. However, there is one accessory that has transitioned from a winter-only garment to a year-round article: the scarf. For a long time, the scarf had a bad reputation for being a lumpy piece of fabric to keep your neck from getting cold; but, over the years, it has become a fashion staple.

A new level of notoriety came with that transformation. The scarf is no longer only used for its practicality. Now, it is used not only to keep necks warm, but it can also be the deciding factor between a drab outfit and an extraordinary one. A bold, printed scarf can serve as an accent to the classic black T-shirt and jeans combination, making even the most fashion-unconscious person seem trendy. But, don’t be limited; there are plenty of different types of scarves to choose from, including a traditional scarf made from a lighter fabric.

Just think of how fancy you’ll look this spring, riding with the top down and your linen scarf flowing in the wind behind you. Life may not be that fanciful, but you should still give scarves a shot past winter.


Text Jarrod Wadsworth
Image Style.com

Keds Shoes Start March With Strong Buzz

Keds and Pro-Keds have both been busy over the past week, releasing a few things that their fans and consumers can look forward to.

Last month, Keds announced a limited spring 2012 capsule collection of its Champion shoe, produced in collaboration with Madewell. Featuring multicolored stripes and polka dots, the design of the shoes were inspired by art-deco elements from the Madewell spring 2012 collection.

Also, in late February, Pro-Keds released its spring lookbook in a more visual form. The video is extremely simple, as it follows two friends who take a trip through New York City. Set to a slow-paced hip hop beat with almost no dialogue, the video effectively showcases the spring launch.

Finally, in the spirit of saving the best for last, Keds has released its fall 2012 lookbook on the heels of its collaboration with Opening Ceremony last season. Varsity cardigans and crewnecks, lightweight trenches, cropped print pants, and sixties-inspired dresses make up the collection.

With such a powerful showing in February, Keds  is off to a steady start as we enter the first full week of March. Feel free to check out the Pro-Keds video lookbook after the jump.

165 Years of Cartier

 

In honor of its 165th anniversary, Cartier has released a short film called "L’Odyssée de Cartier," which follows the path of a bejeweled panther. The feline comes to life and travels to Russia, China, India and France, which are all places that played integral parts in bringing the luxury brand to where it is now.

The film features flashes of beautiful rings as the panther leaps through silver bangles, encounters a gold dragon, steps through an opulent land of trees dripping with jewels, and more. The film ends with Cartier muse Shalom Harlow, who is draped in a red dress and diamonds that are worth every girl's envy. The panther presses itself against her, as the classic red Cartier box closes on the scene.

The film, which took two years to make, is emblematic of the luxury of the brand, which is both traditional and exotic. The brand's image and history is captured perfectly in the silent film, accompanied by the orchestral music of Pierre Adenot. 

Text Alice Chen

Image Cartier

The Ultimate Matchup: DKNY and BaubleBar

Attention accessory lovers and fashionstas: Donna Karan New York has teamed up with BaubleBar! For those of you who are not in the know, BaubleBar is an accessories website where you can find exactly what you’re looking for at any time of the year. The website stocks a wide array of bracelets, rings, necklaces, and more! 

DKNY has finally created an amazing line just for you in the BaubleBar world. The designer has taken big, blooming flowers, unique chains, and even some stripes to create the ultimate girly collection. The line also includes bright colors that go with this spring's trends! Not only does BaubleBar have DKNY, but also they have other designer accessories that you can find in magazines and spot on celebrities. If you still aren't sold, when you sign up for BaubleBar, you can receive $10 off your first order!

Text Sydney Ruby
Image BaubleBar.com

Easy Ways to Glam Up Your Outfit

There are days when a fashionista doesn’t have the time or energy to put together an amazing, stop-in-your-tracks outfit. But never fear, because here are five easy ways to bring some glamour to basics. 

1) Belts: Throwing on a wide or skinny belt instantly brings dimension to your ensemble while defining your waist. Bonus points are awarded for fun neon colors. 

2) Statement pieces: Who doesn’t love a conversation-starting accessory? Pairing a cool bag or a piece of statement jewelry with a plain outfit is a fun way to bring your look up a few levels.

3) Heels: It doesn't get any simpler than stepping into a pair of high heels. They look great with everything, from dresses to jeans. Grab a pair of color-blocked heels if you really want to make a splash. 

4) Mixed proportions: Fit is important, but it’s not the end all, be all in fashion. Highlight your best assets by giving them the fitted treatment. If you want to show off your stems, wear a loose, print top with skinny jeans. 

5) Changed-up hair: Your hair greatly influences your look. Try a different style temporarily, or make it permanent if you're feeling daring, or add an accessory. Embellished buns are all the rage right now. 

How do you glamorize your outfits?

Text Ashley Amidon

Image Cool Spotters

Mulberry Shows Lana Del Rey Some Love

Singer Lana Del Rey may have suffered a heavy backlash from audiences following her SNL performance, but Mulberry has lovingly embraced her. For Mulberry's show at London Fashion Week, the line premiered its latest bag inspired by the muse, the Del Rey.

The Del Rey is a white leather bag with Mulberry’s trademark gold hardware. Since Alexa Chung gained mainstream recognition after inspiring Mulberry's Alexa bag, perhaps the fashion world could become Lana Del Rey's saving grace.

Along with naming a bag after her, Mulberry sat Lana in the front row of their runway show, along with Michelle Williams and Elizabeth Olsen. She performed at the after party with a piano instead of a band. Mulberry says that the 25-year-old has "the style of Old Hollywood," and creative director Emma Hill was “captivated by her soulful, melancholy voice and the nostalgic beauty of her 'Video Games' single and [music] video.” Lana Del Rey’s musical talent may be controversial among critics, but the bag she inspired, which starts at $1,250, is agreeably chic.

Text Emily Thomas
Image and Source Style.com, Fashionista.com

Tri-Tone Heels

Let's step fashionably into the new spring season with a pair of tri-tone shoes that will surely become your new wardrobe essential! Whether they are available in bold, bright colors or a mixture of sophisticated neutrals, this trending footwear is bound to make heads turn. These heels bring a certain kind of twist to the well-known trend called color blocking that we all know and love. So, take this new fashion accessory out for a walk and rock the multi-colored footwear we are all obsessing over for the spring 2012 season. 

For those of you who don't mind breaking the bank, try the Samos Patent-Detailed Leather Sandals by Jimmy Choo that cost $875. These tri-tone sandals offer a sophisticated yet fun touch to any outfit with their contrasting textures and slight hint of retro glamour. Giuseppe Zanotti also offers a pair of fabulous Color Block Patent-Leather Sandals that costs $695. These stacked heels feature hyper-bright hues and luxurious patent leather material that are sure to make the finishing touch on a more monochrome ensemble. 

But don't worry, my money-savvy fashionistas. There's a plethora of less-expensive alternatives to choose from. Try on a pair of Brendle Sandals by Aldo that cost only $60 and feature fun, multi-color leather flat sandals with a cute ankle strap. Zara also offers a pair of sexy Wide Strap Sandals that costs a reasonable $100. These strappy heels are bound to add a bit of sex appeal to any outfit in need of a little vamping.

So, step out of your comfort zone this spring season and experiment with a pair of bold, sexy, and undeniably playful tri-tone heels!

Text Jasmine Song

Source and Image Who What Wear

Candy-Coated Accessories

A few bold and bright statement pieces are perfect for the ambiance of spring. A mixture of pink, orange, and yellow make a spring palette very reminiscent of candy, because it's sweet and a little bit tart at the same time! The colors vary, of course, but they coordinate very well. 

With the addition of just a few items, you can add sparkle and glam to the simplest one-piece garments, such as maxi dresses, jumpsuits, and rompers. That’s not too difficult, right? Going for a neutral colored one-piece would be chic and ultra-charming. It would provide a great amount of balance to these bright accessories. Wondering what neutral colors would fit best? Go for a tan or a nice, crispy white.

Check out the statement pieces behind the jump...

Colorful, Bow-Tied Sling Backs

Take a peek at these ballerina bow-tied sling backs from Carven. They have to be the most romantic, stylish, and comfortable shoes that have been spotted all season. They have a very girlish yet earthy appeal. Are you smitten yet? If not, take a double look and check out the kitten heel which is about one half of an inch high. We are busy and always on the go, but we want to be stylish and comfortable, as well. These sling backs are perfect for both, and they also come in other colors, like neon yellow and electric blue.

What to wear with them? We thought you would never ask! Try skinny-legged denim in a light wash with a blazer over a simple white tee, or a knee-length dress with ruffles. However the garments are mixed and matched, make sure the shoes are easily visible. As the saying goes, “One's not fully dressed without accessories.”

Text Kalyn Huff
Image Style.com

A Better Case Than the Rest

It seems like everyone is sporting an iPhone these days, but what makes yours different than the rest? Many of you already have your phone glued to your hand like it’s an accessory, so why shouldn't it be trendy?

Get rid of your boring phone case without spending hundreds of dollars by purchasing a MargauxBonnie studded iPhone case. Shopjeen.com has a MargauxBonnie collection of phone cases to suit everyone. Everywhere you go, people will stop and ask you about the studded accessory. The cases come in black and white with studs that are either brass or silver. There are different studded designs on each case, and they cost $35 each. MargauxBonnie brings a fun and stylish way to tell your iPhone apart from all the others, so head to Shopjeen.com and pick out your case!

Text Sydney Ruby 
Image ShopJeen

Crystal Clear Bags

The future is crystal clear, and the forecast is calling for transparent totes, purses, and carryalls in tones ranging from white to neon.

Louis Vuitton could not help but dress models in sweet eyelet frocks paired with a variety of clear bags and clutches stamped with the brand's signature logo. Vuitton, however, is not the only design brand behind this trend. BCBG offers petit plastic totes, as well. Consider it a warning that plastic does not guarantee privacy, so accessorize at your own risk.

Text Katelyn Chef 
Source and Image Style.com

Brilliantly Bright Shades

It's time to throw out those dull brown and black sunglasses and grab yourself a pair of vibrantly colored shades that will surely give your outfit the extra umph it needs to make a bold statement for this year's fast approaching spring season! From sultry red, to bright blue, to fluorescent pink, these strikingly colorful frames are currently the talk of the fashion industry, offering a fun and quirky twist to your classic style of eyewear. Even celebrity trendsetters by the likes of Alexa Chung, Jessica Alba, and Gwen Stefani have all been spotted sporting this lovely trend.

Available in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and color palettes, you will certainly find a flattering pair to suit your personal style. Stella McCartney has a fabulous pair of Round Frame Sunglasses that costs $225 and offers a playful pop of color to any outfit. Matthew Williamson also has a pair of splurge-worthy Curved-Square Sunglasses that costs $369 and gives your outfit that cool, effortless look that we all wish we could pull off naturally.

But, for all of you money-conscious fashionistas out there, don't worry; there are plenty of inexpensive alternatives to choose from. Try Urban Outfitters' Extreme Cat Eye Sunglasses that cost only $16. American Apparel also offers an irresistibly affordable pair of Jody Sunglasses for $35. So, brighten up your look with a pair of colorful frames, and bring high fashion to your wardrobe for spring 2012.

Text Jasmine Song
Source and Image Who What Wear

Wild Pliés Down the Runway

Just as eye-catching as their high-heeled counterparts, ballerina flats are back in style for the spring season with an assortment of wild prints and bold colors! Think you've seen enough unusually striking patterns and designs this season? Well, think again, because this dazzling trend is not leaving the runways anytime soon. Renowned fashion designers are adding a little twist to this once subtle-yet-playful trending accessory, incorporating eye-popping color arrangements and prints that will be sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone trying to sneak a peek of your fabulous footwear. 

Roger Vivier offers a breathtaking cotton-silk ballerina flat that costs $595 and features a colorful leopard-print design, his signature buckle, and skid-proof rubber soles. These stunning flats are not only comfortable because of their luxe fabric, but they are also wearable. So, forget about those sky-high heels, and give your feet a rest. Pair these gorgeous shoes with any outfit that's in need of a pop of color, and prepare yourself for spring 2012. 

Text Jasmine Song

Source and Image InStyle

Oh, Michael!

Expect the unexpected when it comes to Michael Kors's latest edition to the tote world. He introduced the Hamilton Frosted Large Jelly tote this year, and it is already deemed as one of the "IT" bags for 2012. 

Stepping aside from the traditional canvas tote, this bag is great for traveling, or just maintaining your city appeal. The longer chain strap keeps the handbag feel to a style we know so well. With all the great qualities of a handbag, including the double straps, Michael Kors ensures that the city lady can maintain her chic presence in the midst of her leather competitors. Priced at $268, a steal for Kors, you'll be sure to keep some extra cash inside of your tote and walk alongside the best of them. 

Text Kia Chenelle and Chistiana Greene

Image and Source Macy's 

Victoria’s Secret Launches High-End Collection

Earlier this week, Victoria’s Secret launched its first high-end collection, and it has been well received. “The Victoria’s Secret Designer Collection,” which features pieces created with European lace, ribbons, and sheer chiffon, nearly sold out on the first day it was available for purchase.

With bras that retail upwards of $98 and baby dolls and teddies that range from $158 to $218, the luxurious collection also features garter belts and undies for under $70.

It may seem as if this high-end line came out of nowhere, but there were actually bits and pieces of the collection featured in the annual VS Fashion Show in November. An incredibly secretive project, the company “took it in-house because [they] have a design team that has such a passion for lingerie and they differentiate Victoria’s Secret from any other brand,” president and chief marketing officer Ed Razek told WWD.

For all of you Victoria’s Secret fans, don't worry if you weren't able to get a piece from the current upscale collection. There are plans to distribute the summer collection to a total of 12 physical stores and it will also available for purchase on victoriassecret.com.

Text Quamé A. Hamlin
Image Victoria's Secret
Source WWD

Dainty Rings Make a Statement

While we have all gravitated towards statement jewelry because of its large size and stylistically bold appearance, more delicate pieces are beginning to take over and make just as big of a fashion statement! Hopefully you are all familiar with the cocktail ring, which typically features a rather substantial piece of hardware, big enough for anyone to spot from miles away. But, as the saying goes, out with the old and in with the new. It is time for this once-trending accessory to step aside and make way for a variety of more charming and delicate baubles just in time for the spring 2012 season.

Jacquie Aiche offers a fabulous Shell Prong Waif Ring, which costs $315 and features five exquisite shells placed delicately in a 14-karat gold setting. For a less-expensive alternative, try Madewell's Foxtrot Ring, which costs only $15 and features a brass-plated fox head in a vintage gold color.

Chic, charming, and conveniently versatile, feel free to stack these dainty rings for a more eye-catching appearance, or wear one on its own for a slightly more subdued look. Whatever way you choose to wear this delicate accessory, you will surely be making a statement for the fast-approaching spring season.

Text Jasmine Song
Image and Source Who What Wear

The Bigger the Buckle, the Better

Strap yourselves into your next outfit with a fun accessory that is sure to make a strong fashion statement, because big buckle belts are stealing the spotlight! While we have all used this particular accent piece as a mere waist-defining accessory, this fashion staple has definitely transformed into something bigger and better. Already attracting quite a lot of attention from celebrity trendsetters like Rooney Mara and Byrdie Bell, this stylish accessory will undoubtedly be popular for the spring 2012 season. Although these large buckle belts have appeared on the spring runways of acclaimed designers by the likes of Phoebe Philo, Yves Saint Laurent, and Lanvin, there is an assortment of affordable alternatives to choose from that won't break the bank.

If you are worried about splurging on this bold trend, try Banana Republic's Leather Contour Belt, which costs $50 and introduces a sleek, effortless look to any outfit in need of cinching. Lauren by Ralph Lauren also has a less-expensive substitute for this spring accessory, with a $38 Patent Stretch Belt that can spice up any outfit and help you feel chic and sexy. So, add this eye-catching statement piece to your wardrobe and stand out from the crowd in a stylishly cinched frock.

Text Jasmine Song

Image and Source Who What Wear