As many of you know, I was in New Orleans at the end of last week for the Essence Music Festival at the My Black is Beautiful Booth which included a number of P&G brands! As a Brand Ambassador for Crest, I spent the day meeting a number of attendees and celebs that came through as I gave them accessories tips as well as explaining why Crest ensures that my best accessory, a white smile, is the perfect way to complete your outfit! I'll create an album and will update this post so that you can see all of the fun.
I love wearing white dresses and this linen dress from Miguelina which had intricate work . I paired that with a Virgins, Saints and Angels Magdalena Necklace which is always fun (I also paired it with one of my VSA rings as well as this stach of bracelets which can also be worn as necklaces - a fun way to bring in pearls) to bring ornate elements into the look. I also wore a number of pieces from Linea Pelle including this wrapped bracelet that you can see on my arm which incorporates orange and gold into the look as well as their fabulous Dylan Double Zipper Bag which I am obsessed with!!!. I capped off the look with my Ana Reign onyx ring! In terms of makeup, I'm all about keeping it simple and dynamic. I love that I on my cheeks not only do I have my usual bronzer that looks sunkissed but I also have Estee Lauder's Blush in Fearless (this can also be used as a lip color due to its formulation which is amazing).
I had such an amazing day that allowed me to meet a number of fabulous women, men and kids as well as to be embraced by the people of New Orleans who were super sweet and generous! I also loved seeing my fellow industry peeps such as Bevy Smith that I am pictured with who is always phenom no matter where you see her and as an Accessories Expert, I can say that she is always accessories approved! On another note, I love that I am more prone to wearing my sunglasses indoors than I am when I am actually outside!
Where is the summer going? In the midst of the bombs that have been dropping today - Tom and Katie divorcing, Lauryn Hill going to jail and Adele bringing in a bundle of joy (if you haven't heard get thee to E! immediately). In the midst of the madness, we're in the midst of planning 4th of July outfits! We'd kick it off with Diane von Furstenberg whoc has a fab white bikini with knot details. This will look amazing with Virgins, Saints and Angels Magdalena necklace! As you strut around your roofdeck watching the fireworks, rock these Christian Louboutin python and lace wedges! Finally, when you have to rock appropriate attire, slip on Roberto Cavalli with this dynamic red and white caftan.
I have been obsessed with mint for a number of months and when I saw that one of my favorite designers and friends, Aiisha had this gorgeous piece, it made me think of all the things that I love about summer, rooftop parties and jetsetting! I love how it looks on the runway with a simple sandal and hair pushed up so that you definitely look like a sun kissed goddess, but of course I had to add the full on look! I love how simple and eye catching these Virgins, Saints and Angels earrings are as they have such a whimsical feel for this look. Pair this with the fabulous Alberto Juan Prohibition Cocktail that's a fabulous peridot cluster cocktail ring! Jil Sander has a fabulouse envelope clutch in my favorite material - python! Finally, a simple freshwater pendant is an excellent way to cap off this look by Athena Designs.
If you've seen me during the summers, you know that I'm all about my maxi dresses. I'm all about wearing them casually as well as dressed up. Of course you can always wear a maxi with simple flip flops but when I'm out and about, this is what I definitely think about in terms of pairings. First off a simple black maxi by Topshop is a great base begging to have a few add ons. Place a belt that is tilted on an angle by Linea Pelle - loving the hardware. Slip on Erickson Beamon's cocktail ring that embodies Bette Davis. When it comes to your wrists stack on these wrap bracelets by Chan Luu in fun alternating colors that add in pop. Virgins, Saints and Angels has a fab Magdalena Necklace in silver jet - black diamond. Slip on Burberry's beaded leather flat sandals which look very ornate. Together this can be worn to go out with friends, a fab dinner or anywhere where your summer takes you.
As many of you know, I was in sunny and humid Tampa this week for my on air appearances for Sebago on HSN! It was a great day to chat about Spring trends, boat shoes and what you can expect from Sebago this season. In addition, I loved being able to chat with my fave hosts on the show as well as to see Robert Verdi as he was on air as well for his line. If you missed it or want to see it again, I'm chatting with Tamara Hooks about spring. I loved keeping it easy with a fun tee, citron yellow denim and an amazing assortment of jewelry! Love that I rocked Ted Rossi python bangle, Ana Reign Black Onyx ring, Virgins, Saints and Angels ring and a Flower Pendant necklace from CG Arte.
A good outfit needs support and I'm not just talking structure! When you know that you're rocking fab skivvies, it's fun to build you outfit and you have this sense of being able to take on the day because you started on the right track! With that said, I introduce La Verite Lingerie that has a number of collections that are perfect to start your day, evening and more off on the right foot! I'm loving the bra and pantie which has details on it that makes you excited to jump in them! In addition, it's about having fab robes! I own probably 6 robes and although we all love having our terry and cashmere robes there is something about getting ready in a silk robe and this one by Jenny Packham is decadent and a take off of a kimono style robe. In addition, when I am getting ready I love to get ready with my jewelry which is how I start getting dressed! We all know that I am a huge fan of Virgins, Saints and Angels Benito Magdalena in Gold with Opague Purple Amethyst. Since Amethyst is a calming stone complete the look with Sheila Fajl's gold plated Amethyst ring which is phenom! Now all you need to do is to decide what to wear!
Tomorrow is the Golden Globe Awards which puts us within awards season as we watch who will be winning, what they're wearing and more - there are other events that are also attended around each of these shows. Above, Christina Simpkins is at the 2012 DPA Golden Globe Awards Gift Suite. DPA (Virgins, Saints and Angels so I would pair this ring with this look as I love that it picks up the tones of the dress that Christina is wearing. Plus it's an amazing conversation piece as well. I'd actually swap out the earrings (which are lovely) that she's wearing with this pair by Mizuki as it's such a dainty and beyond glam look that doesn't conflict with the eye popping necklace that I would put in by Stephen Dweck. Together this look is playful and glam which is what you want to go for even when you're popping into the gifting suites!
Although we're settling into a series of winter weeks, I can't help but get excited about warmer destinations that I will head to over the next few months. So, I'm always building an all seasons wardrobe! Right now, I'm all about the color known as 'tomato'. This color is not red or orange but a delicious hybrid of the two together. I'm obsessed with Rachel Pally's Leighton Dress which is perfect for west coast and south beach parties that have a phenom boho chic style!
This begs to be worn with these fab Christian Louboutin's tomato cork heel patent leather peep toe pumps! Round out this look with Virgins, Saints and Angels San Benito Magdalena necklace which is perfect to pair with this dress and to add a few stones within it. Slip on Claudia Lobao's citrine and python ring which is a fab way of playing all these fab hues. Chan Luu has a wrap bracelet that plays up the gold tones and yet maintains the boho chic style. Finally, I love that Ghibli's python satchel bag is decadently lush and works well with a number of outfits no matter what style you're looking to rock.
As mentioned yesterday, from now until the end of the year I will share with you my Top 5's (known as Kimmie's 5s - as an Accessories Expert you'll find the best way to complete your looks) within various themes as this is the time of year of lists after all! Today's look is inspired by the upcoming Winter Solstice and the dip in temperature being 27 degrees yesterday! We're still running around gifting, going to dinners and so much more! With that said I am all about caramel and rich brown tones! How can one dress up their outerwear and leggings which is a staple in my look when it comes to colder weather. I'm obsessed with the Prairie Hideaway Coat available at Modcloth. I love that it mixes in caramel, grey, black and cream and has a fun texture! In addition, this can be paired with any legging and of course, I have chosen the black pair by Alberta Feretti!. With that said, here are the top 5 caramel focused accessories that are fab for your closet and to complete this look!
Necklaces are essential and of course if it's from Virgins, Saints and Angels - I know that it's going to take your look to another level. Although this Magdalena piece is available exclusively at Nordstrom, it's tiered and drop pendant look is perfection for this look! Keep your fingers warm with fingerless gloves by Portolano. Keep your legs warm by slipping on Naughty Monkey's over the knee boot which is perfect for the season. Keep your eyes protected from the wind with Fendi'sZucca sunglasses which is all about being oversized and amazing. Finish the look with Prada's White Pebble Leather Convertible Satchel! Together - this is a super cute and clean look which will keep you warm no matter where you are off to.
With a little over a week left before Christmas, we can all use a kick in the pants to go out and get gifting. Standing in line yesterday at the post office, I realized that I have a lot to do. My favorite part of the gifting process is spending time cross legged wrapping packages. I prefer this to be a solo activity but if you have wrapping parties, this is how to dress for it!
Personally, I'm not a fan of Fair Isles but when it's the holiday season, I think it's so cute. Here in the city, we have been enjoying fabulous weather where we can layer lightly! So pair this Fair Isle Hooded Cardigan from Paul & Joe Sister with a long sleeve white T from J Crew and Donna Karan's white leggings. I love wearing white well past Labor Day Weekend as I don't believe in rules to style! Of course, when it comes to looking cozy, you have to bling it out as you never know what you'll be doing after all the gift wrapping. Slip on a pair of studded ankle boots by Charles by Charles David which will add a rich caramel to this look. As you know, I'm a fan of Ted Rossi and beyond making fabulous python cuffs, he has adjustable rings that has Swarovski crystals and sits on a python base to create the perfect cluster. Now in addition, my loyal kittens know that when it comes to jewelry I have my faves that I salivate over and enjoy rocking (Ted Rossi, Virgins, Saints and Angels and ...) so you know this includes Ana Reign Designs. I have been writing about this designer since 2004 and met her in person earlier this year and found that she is definitely a friend. This past weekend, she was apart of Kitten Lounge's Holiday Shopping Lounge at Ink48. I am now the proud owner of the very first piece that I wrote about AND fell in love with years ago - a Teardrop Onyx Ring that is also adjustable (as well as 3 fabulous cluster bracelets which I am so obsessed over! This is a great way to complete the look!
When you're the hostess and it's the holiday season, you can rock whatever style you want to! Go over the top and wear pieces that you would definitely look at but think twice about wearing any other time of year. So if it's all about going big and being the complete center of attention, then you can't go wrong with this banded dress by Herve Leger! I love that it mixes fuchsia and a great plum tone together! This strapless and curve fitting number is such a pop factor that having a subtle necklace by Miguel Ases which has one of my fave elements - labradorite. Slide on this mixed metal ring by none other them my faves, Virgins, Saints and Angels. By mixing in the two tones, it allows you to play up mixed metals. This Fevi Reyes hammered cuff has a nice elongated look to it and to top the entire look off, slip on a pair of YSL. The "hostess with the mostest" is now complete!
A few days, ago I received a Michael Craig (founder of Dinette.com and Interior Design Guru) Collection Silver Bowl. This was definitely a thank you gift but also a great way to challenge how to take something and put it in your space and to optimize its use. As an Accessories Expert and Designer, I always have bits and baubles lying around that I need to be able to get quickly! I took my silver bowl and places in loose stones that I have used for my jewelry and placed my go to rings (we all know my on going obsession with Virgins, Saints and Angels) within the bowl which can sit anywhere that I happen to be but is the perfect item to have on your nightstand in your bedroom! With that said, I wanted to take these natural tones and create an overall look that will be amazing for your room to create a seasonless look!
Switch out your bed and make it a nice marble grey effect by having this Coralie Bed available at Anthropologie. Change your pillow covers with this marble effect pillow cover that's at West Elm and continue the marble look on this rug from Neiman Marcus whether it's by your bed or in your bathroom. While you're at West Elm, you should also check out some soft lighting with this fab Capiz Pendant light fixture.
This week, I'm sharing some fun fashionable items that you can wear on Thanksgiving! Whether you're hosting, attending family dinners, hopping or going out to eat - you still have to show up wearing something and there are so many options! This year, we're hosting so of course there is a lot of excitement and work - with a short week, everything is accelerated. My inspiration for today's look comes from my every growing love of kaftans! I love that they flow and although they come in long and short options, I love this one from Pucci that blends vibrant color (perfect as it is truly seasonless). I love the blend of yellow and wine so I carried this through the entire look when it comes to accessories!
Slip on Alberto Juan's garnet ring which is such a rich look. This Imperial Jasper cuff available at Anthropologie, has such a fab natural look to it and yet embraces the golden goddess look. Rock these amazing Fendi cutout platform booties as whether you're at home or not, a heel is always nice to have. Virgins, Saints and Angels has fab earrings that complete the look and on the chance you decide to step out for espresso or drinks after your lavish dinner, grab your clutch by Rochas as you're a cab away from the next stop on your Turkey Day list!
This week has been a busy week and we're already at the midway point! But we kicked it off this weekend by shooting my Kimmie Smith x Sebago Spring 12 lookbook which was a lot of fun as we had access to a penthouse suite at Kimpton's Hotel at Ink 48 which is a phenomenal way to see the city with all of its varied energies! In addition, I was so happy to rock Virgins, Saints and Angels, Ainsley, Sean John and a special tribute to Paul's grandfather who was a lead electrician on the Intrepid! You'll also read about my inspirations and more which is always nice to know the reasoning behind each creation!
As promised we are wrapping up our New York Fashion Week coverage into the weekend. This way we will be back to our regularly scheduled program on Mon! With that said, I had many people ask me how did I get through NYFW? I wish I could say that I was eating well balanced meals, getting plenty of rest and exercising to start each day. But in reality Fashion Week is a hectic schedule and with this season launching my line and doing appearances, it was even crazier! With that said, you find comfort where you can! In the day, that may mean spending an extra 20 mins to mingle with friends between shows, maximizing the fun of lounges or just taking a moment to go off site to get some work done so you're not as stressed.
For me, I took the night time to get comfortable while I worked to stay current with shows. During UGG's Post Fashion Night Out brunch, I soaked in the sun, yummie nibbles/bevvies and loved our gift - fabulous Ansley shoes in Grey. Seeing that I was in heels everyday and standing for long periods, my feet deserved the ultimate in comfort! Due to all the fun outfits I wore (which I can't thank Natori enough, it simply meant that in coming home, I had to slip into something comfortable that wouldn't stop my work flow. LnA hits the spot as it's cozy, cute and in a pinch, I can throw on leggings and make a quick errand if need me. Finally, my skin is another way that I revitalized my self after hours. Bliss' Sugar Scrub in Blood Orange White Pepper Sugar Scrub ensures that my skin stays soft and glows so that I can rock my Ted Rossi pieces and my Virgins, Saints and Angels one as well.
My after hours routine in terms of NYFW is all about obtaining comfort without distracting from the work that had to be taken care of. Having these at my disposal ensured that I looked great and was prepping for the next day of events.
It's the night that has been bombarding my inbox, been teasing us in stores - it's about Retail Therapy at its finest while doing it in style and meeting some of your favorite personalities! Tonight is Fashion's Night Out here in NYC and in many cities around the US and globally of course. Here in the city, you can definitely rock your shopping at a number of locations from 6 - 11pm tonight! It's a time to support your retailers, boost your closets and to enjoy it in a festive atmosphere. With global acceptance, you have to check out the official site to see what is taking place in your area! For those in NYC, I will be participating this year with Ted Rossi one of my favorite luxury accessory brands at Henri Bendel! You can meet Ted Rossi and myself, your fave Accessory Expert as we show you the collection and find the perfect piece to cap off your look!
On Kitten Lounge, I'm always excited to showcase items that I have my eye on and think that you should know about. I'm also all about accessibility so whether you can head out to your local Fashion's Night Out or want to get some shopping in prior to the official time slot of 6pm tonight! I present Kitten Lounge's Digital Fashion's Night Out which presents a curated group of amazing finds that are a must to have and you can shop throughout today and still head out later in the evening to continue filling your closets!
Beauty finds come to your door and this month, Birchbox partnered with Scoop to create the perfect look! I also love that Birchbox is a sponsor for Kitten Lounge's NYFW 4th Anniversary Cocktail Party on the 14th!
I do a lot of travel and TV segments and I love exfoliating about 3 times a week for smooth, soft and glowy skin! Elizabeth Grant's Vitamin C Body Scrub is a must!
Tired eyes are a no no whether you're in front of the camera or just hanging out Vitamin C Illuminating Eye Pads are an essential!
There is no excuse to not rock a scarf as it can add a pop of color to any look but you don't have to wear it just around your neck - find out the number of ways that you can wore these gorgeous pieces from SabinaLes!
Ted Rossi was my first introduction to the world of python and Swarovski Crystals so he has a special place in my heart as well as being a phenomenal human being! So you see me rock his pieces frequently AND I am honored to participate with him in tonight's Fashion Night Out at my favorite and most essential home of accessories - Henri Bendel!
I love mixing materials and when you pair a large bag with a pop of texture you have an amazing combination which is what I present to you in the Belt Bag!
Too many options are never a bad thing and when you have a 3-in-1 with amazing exotic leather, you have true success!
I have been writing about Virgins, Saints and Angels for years and if you've seen recent appearances since this Spring, you know it's always on my hands - but there are so much more. LOVE this Tribal Cross Pendant which is also available in silver!
The depth of Virgins, Saints and Angels is astounding and I love that many of their pieces are available at one of my favorite online stores, Ylang23 - their customer service is BEYOND! I'm such a fan of this Temptation Serpentine Cuff in Gold With Pacific Opal
I start my days during NYFW checking to see how my schedule needs to be updated as there are always invites that come in, media lounges to attend and a few other appearances that I am asked to go to. I spend the days prior to Fashion Week lining up my closet with items that will be perfect for all these events as my days send me running from tents and this season I will be launching my line as well. But no matter what, I have my basics that get me through the 9 days of madness. Some items are my tried and true such as my Cocoa Butter which keeps my skin enriched and soft, I also love my NARS Body Glow which gives a nice hue and my Urban Decay 24/7 as I believe in black eyeliner. Now I have an entire new arsenal series of beauty products that are a must and will carry me through this season.
I love love love M.A.C.'s Semi Precious Mineralize Eyeshadow which is a nice way to add a little something to my eyes, I fell in love with NP Set after listening to Napoleon Perdis show a small group of us his new made for Target collection before I went off to HSN and of course I have been a fan of Coach Poppy Fragrance so now having the rollerball that has their new scent in there as well as the previous one is always nice to refresh me between shows.
When it comes to my accessories, I can never go wrong with any of the Virgins, Saints and Angels rings as it's a great way to add wow factor to my hands (since I gesture a lot and they look amazing in pictures), I'm also all about stilettos and am obsessed with Vince Camuto at the moment especially anything that is studded (doesn't matter if I'm in leggings or if I am in a super cute dress) and finally Rebecca Minkoff's M.A.B. in python is the cutest satchel that can allow me to take all of my goodies along with me and yet remain so stylish!
I'm heading home to NYC after being in Tampa/St Petersburg/Clearwater for my appearances earlier this week on HSN! With Labor Day weekend coming up, the summer went by way too fast! With that said, there was a lot of travel, meetings, events and so much more. It meant that although I always look my best, I had to take it to another level Enjoy the clip of one of my segments that I did talking about Sebago's Fall line on HSN! I'm rocking SBS (Smart by Style) which I became the face of and which you will see for Spring 12. But equally important is my love for fab brows (thank you Shobha), having a dazzling white smile courtesy of Crest 3D White - as well as rocking nails courtesy of Polished Beauty Bar. In addition there are a number of lotions, scrubs and more that I use! Next week is New York Fashion Week which means tons of shows, participating in Fashion Night Out with Ted Rossi meet and greets at Robert Verdi's for my Kimmie Smith x Sebago Spring 12, my 4th anniversary party for Kitten Lounge, it's my birthday and so much more. All of this will take place within a nine day period but at least my skin will look phenom! Of course, accessory wise you''ll see me rocking Virgins, Saints and Angels and Ted Rossi.
Last night, I was back at the showrooms of UGG Australia to preview portions of their fall collection. I always love a night with fab footwear and handbags, great wine and nibbles and times to catch up as I never know when I will be traveling again! Above Felicia, myself, Megahan, Jordan and Katy posed as we were chatting up who knows what! In the midst of the rain we had a great night and I fell in love with two pairs of shoes that are an absolute must in my closet! Finally, people always ask what I'm wearing when I'm running around in terms of accessories so yesterday I picked my massive amount of charm bracelets that have been my signature this summer and I rocked two rings from Virgins, Saints and Angels, a Ted Rossi cuff and loving my Rebecca Minkoff bag! See more images, my fave looks from the collection and more right here.
Yesterday I closed out July heading to the Javits Center to check out a number of apparel, intimate and accessories brands at a massively large series of shows. I was inspired, excited and pooped! Now that we are in August, there are a number of things that go on this month that are in an effort to have a truly successful NY Fashion Week experience for Team Kitten Lounge! But in addition, with my upcoming collab launches, fab media push and events - things are just a bit more amped up then usual. The next few weeks is a serious push that I am super excited about and it's also the hottest part of the summer here in NYC! I'm already thinking of post Fashion Week which always involves phenomenal massages to end out 9 hard core days but I am also making sure that by the time I have come down from the fashion and last trade shows of Sept that Paul and I can say that we are hopping on a flight to Santorini!
I have never been but the images alone have given me such peace that I do believe that this season it must be a reality. Although I travel to a number of locations some of them being super exotic, it's not a vacation and if I revealed the last time I went on one, it would be too shameful to even admit! As always, it's all about the outfits, I definitely would want to rock an amazing bikini (love Matthew Williamson) that's super simple and can be paired with a kaftan. With these accessories from Noir, Alexis Bittar and Virgins, Saints and Angels I would definitely be in my element! Everyone needs bling even when it's time to relax. Of course, a simple pair of sandals from Christian Dior is a must! Only a few more weeks and then I'll be in holiday mode!>/p>
Happy 4th of July Weekend everyone! We're at the halfway mark of the year and in the portion of the summer where the heat turns up! With all the activities that you have to deal with this weekend, your attire can be super relaxed and easy with fabulous accessories! Obsessed with kaftans, I find it the easiest way to dress as it can be amazing to wear to the beach, a night out or just hanging out in the village. I love this multi strained necklace by Stephen Dweck which has a number of stones in it which look perfect when paired with Virgins, Saints and Angels newest tribal collection - loving the Tribal Milagro Ring which is a fun cluster of medallions. Complete the look with a pair of feather gladiator sandals by Koolaburra! I even love that this is a complete look that I would definitely wear when I am sourcing my next finds when prepping for a personal shopping trip for my clients!
Although NYC has a bit of weather confusion, at least we know that we're not in the midst of chill temperatures! With that said, when it gets hotter, I'm all about keeping the apparel simple and really focusing on fab accessories. I'm a huge fan of T by Alexander Wang due to its simplicity and this striped ruched dress would be just as cute with a pair of amazing sandals but perhaps you're on your way to dinner at Serafina's followed by drinks and since you have no idea how big the group will be and you want to impress your hunnie, these accessories (whether you choose all or some) will be phenom for you anytime night out!
You know that I'm a huge fan of Virgins, Saints and Angels. Recently during California Market, they released their tribal collection which I am a huge fan of! Normally, we don't (nor do I wear) talk about earrings; however, with something this phenomenal I would definitely include it within my wardrobe. I also love Anndra Neen's Snowflake Necklace which is such a simple and yet chicly wild component to add this look without fighting the gold in the earrings. I'm always about keeping it natural which Dara Ettinger McKenzie's ring does and has a little rock glam with the double finger! I love that it's a natural stone with a little amethyst for pop. Of course, continue to keep it neutral with Nicholas Kirkwood's shoe boots which are two toned, have the double platform heel and can be rocked in all seasons which is phenomenal!
As many of you enjoyed Father's Day or simply a gorge day in NYC, I was in a cab heading to the 59th Bridge to make my way to JFK as I'm super picky about getting to the airport at certain times especially when there is an International flight. While sitting in the car watching the city slowly coming to life, people hopping over to their nearest bodega and bagel spots, I thought about the fact that this time last year, I was super busy going to Editor's appointments and press trips to fun locales where you learning about a brand or checking out the tourism of a city etc. I loved it but yet when I think about how often I fly and the reasons behind it - I definitely feel like I have truly stepped into the role of a business woman. I love that I hit Tampa very regularly so I can appear on air at HSN for Sebago and that I also head to Dominican Republic quite frequently as I have my soon to be released Kimmie Smith x Sebago Fall 11/Holiday 11, Kimmie Smith x Sebago Spring 12 and just completed and absolutely beyond phenom Kimmie Smith x Sebago Fall 12 collections.
Sitting in the car, I thought about a number of the collab design projects that will be rolling out next year and there is something to be said for knowing that the Kimmie brand has a nice selection of diversified lines that all have my "K" logo'd on the product in conjunction with the fab brand. In addition, I'm loving the ambassadorships as well as the fab partnerships (one so large that it calms me everytime I might get a tad antsy) that will be able to be announced officially just in time for New York Fashion Week as this season will be my busiest as I will tackle covering the shows, have some fabulous major mag placements as well as hosting a series of events that take everything to another level. WIth all of that good stuff it definitely means I travel a lot and although every now and then I let you know what I love love love. Here are more items!
I snapped a quick pic of my fave restaurant just outside of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic (I believe this is in Boca Chica) - Boca Marina. I love that this gorgeous restaurant is like a lavish, large tiki hut with candles, shells and more and then outside is this large deck area. I have been here over their holiday weekends and you know that the Presidente's never stop flowing and the food - beyond! I highly suggest there calamari, fried cheese and the best bread ever when it comes to appetizer selections. Then for the entree, if you're starved, the Lobster Lasagna is a must and you'll never finish it (whether you're a guy OR girl) or the Sopa - yum! It's an experience and as the lights come down you feel like you're in South Beach such a cool vibe.
My travel must was having my jeggings which are fab to travel in and can be paired with my Havaianas which allow me to go through TSA super fast. Whether I'm on the flight OR in the factory in the offices upstairs, having my scarf ensures that my throat stays warm. Of course, I don't travel without Virgins, Saints and Angels OR Ted Rossi as it looks super fab, amps any outfit and people notice (love that the leather supplier having dinner with us that night said "Hey is that VSA" - that would be why I'm the Accessories Expert) and of course my lips are super important and I have been obsessed over Dior Addict Lip Maximizer (as well as Glow)!
As you know, when the temperatures rise whether I'm in NYC or traveling - just try to get me out of my maxis! I am a huge believer that this is a summer must regardless as it looks good on so many body types and as just so easy to wear! It can be super casual and can be dressed up by accessories whether you're off to run errands, grab brunch with the girls or are embarking on an inspiration day which is perfect to clear your mind while also ensuring that you do a little retail therapy! I'm jetting off soon to design my third collaboration line in Dominican Republic and thankfully when I'm packing my wardrobe now works there as well! The above look is in line with what I would wear, how I shop for my clients and of course has fun accessories that you can interchange with other looks!
Earlier this week I was intro'd to All Public Clothing which is all about crowdsourced fashion - meaning that people can submit their designs of what they would like to design on the APC Facebook Page, it gets voted on each month and a winner is selected! Whether you're a budding designer or simply have a desire to try something new, this line gives you that opportunity. I initially fell in love with the concept as I'm a huge believe in community generated content but the styles were so boho chic that I was BEYOND in love! I love that they turn art into public clothing and allow engagement whether you incorporated amazing photography, design etc into a look OR are simply voting on what speaks to you!
The super easy dress above needs a few friends and of course I'm all about Virgins, Saints and Angels Ale necklace as I have this in a ring in silver and would definitely want to get the matching neck ornament. As a fan of bling on your hands, Alexis Bittar has this gorge Flora Primrose Ring which is so whimsical but adds a bit of pop to the overall look! Lulu Frost's Concho Bracelet shows that I am all about mixing metals as I don't believe that silver and gold aren't interchangeable and of course everything is rounded out by these simple woven thongs by Vicini!
Whether I'm styling a client to get them prepped for an entire season of outings or for their special day, you can't begin putting looks together without knowing where they intend to go, how they want to feel and of course how the accessories are really going to make all of these elements come together. I also love the fact that when you pick apparel that is definitely eye catching, the accessories can be a mix of subtle and eye popping elements that can work with a number of looks! Today's fashion spread depicts the girl who knows that it's heating up and wants to look whimsical and full of fun - I also love that my client looked fab in the inspired look above!
I love a night out when you know that you and your hunnie are having a night out which means grabbing drinks at a swanky and sexy spot (Hurricane Club), pre nibbles (eggplant apps and sassy drinks at Ilili), a fab restaurant of exotic foods (down in the Meat Packing District at Spice Market) and continuing on to some serious dancing overlooking the city (Le Bain at the Standard) - I think just laid out a phenomenal night out when it's hot and toasty in the city! You know that I'm a huge fan of boho chic as I think it makes everyone look sexy while also allowing you to look as if you're floating from place to place. Just like many opt for sunkissed natural looks for makeup as no one wants extra weight, that's why I love maxi dresses or light weight belted dresses. This Bell Sleeve Chiffon Panel Maxi by ASOS is PHENOM and one that should be in your closet! It's perfect for a night out with your cutie, one with the girls and even if you have a nice evening wedding!
I love that in terms of accessorizing, you can go simple since there is such a large amount of color in the dress! I love these shoes as they are super simple and they merge casual with a pop of interest (if you're packing for the weekend this works well with a number of looks), a nice cluster of charms on your necklace is a subtle note and who doesn't love Carnelian which is such a warm hue. Capping it off with a large cocktail ring from Virgins, Saints and Angels and this fab python clutch (always perf to have when you have so many colors as it becomes a neutral - love Jalda) makes your night out camera ready!
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As an Accessories Expert, Kimmie appears on HSN, designs, is quoted/featured in various publications talking about style from an Accessories Forward perspective! To work with Kimmie or to see project portfolio, visit her site here.
Kimmie is the Co-Founder/Creative Director of Shoe Week which launched during NYFW Sept '12 and is styling a number of shows as well as having evening leading up to our second season of shows during NYFW Sept '13.
Co-Founder, Kimmie, connects brands with bloggers in intimate event settings via Style Tweetup.
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