Last week I had to share one of the favorite looks that was created by Johana from NBC's Fashion Star. This week she was paired with Daniel again as they had to create separate pieces that are meant to be worn together in order to create a cohesive look! Yet again, I was all about Johana's look as her pencil skirt was perfection and I love Daniel's tops! During the show, there were three distinct variations that made it on the runway; however, when it came to production (as Saks actually bought both), you can see that they have a blush/black ensemble as well as a black/white combo. The beauty of this look is that they look fabulous separately but when placed together, it's as if you have a dress!
Roll over the images to see how I would accessorize the above in terms of shoes and handbags! In addition, see how these items are a universal for your accessories and how you can include it within other looks that you plan on wearing during this season and the next! You'll find these accessories consist of Reed Krakoff, Alexander McQueen, Bottega Veneta and Stephanie Cesaire.
Each month, I like to highlight what accessories I'm super excited about including within my wardrobe. With the weather moving into warmer temperatures, that means we'll lighten up the outerwear as well as shortening our sleeves. This means that there's no reason to spare a little love towards more arm candy, rocking fabulous heels, wearing super cute bags and more. When you roll over the above images, you'll find why I'm loving a number of accessories to rock with a number of styles including: Monika Chiang, Plukka, Christian Louboutin, Balenciaga and Indochine.
Although we're thinking about getting gifted around the Kitten Lounge Loft (Happy Christmas Eve to everyone and those celebrating other winter holidays, enjoy them without a doubt), I have to say that my mind around this time of year goes to the beginning fashion tradeshows that kick off my fashion calendar as well as such events as Sundance Film Festival. It's going to be an amazing 2012 of travel and although some of us will have to deal with pesky outerwear, there is no reason to reduce how cute we can look as snowbunnies (regardless of how mild the weather may appear to be in NYC or other locales). First off, I am obsessed with a new outerwear find to me, Hawke & Co. courtesy of TJ Maxx. This season, I will enjoy wearing a number of my tapered coats and capes; however, with images of people skiing last winter on Park Ave, I knew I needed a coat that was puffy, long, had a hood and would be super warm! This definitely fit the bill! Last winter I received these exact Sorel boots known as Cate the Great which are an awesome grey which works well with my grey coat (which also comes in black and brown). These boots are perfect when it is snowing, when you're walking through slush and I love the furry detailing and the fact that they come up high.
Although I want to be warm, I know that it is essential that I'm still cute as I will be heading to the airport for warmer climates, running around the city and more and you can't skimp on the cute factor. Pair this look with Hotel Particulier's Fox Fur hat which is so cute and cozy. Ralph Lauren keeps your hands warm and accessible to grab your phone with these fingerless gloves that have fab cable detail on the outside. Of course, exposed fingers allow for fabulous cocktail rings to grace your finger - including this one by JLRicci which is made of smoky quartz. Finally, it's always about the bag and I'm loving Furla's shearling camel hobo bag which is easy and yet makes a fab statement no matter where you are off too!
When I'm out and about, people notice that I rock the exotics everyday. I have my python satchel bag, iPad case and matching coin/key zip all from Rebecca Minkoff, my Jimmy Choo wallet, Ziordia python passport holder (this was a phenomenal bag brand that is no longer available but I love it) and so much more! I think it's so important to have that pop especially as we go into outerwear weather when you need these accessories to show your personal style!
With that being said here are some of my faves that I know are awesome to rock regardless of season. Gucci has a phenomenal hobo bag that embodies one of my favorite motifs - Marrakech. I love Marc Jacobs' fun green python cosmetic case which adds a nice color within your bag and can be worn even when it is not the spring season. I'm LOVING this richly burgundy wallet that contains python as well as calfskin by Jerome Dreyfuss - love the embellishment on here as well which is a nice touch. When you're traveling all your documents will be secure with Rebecca Minkoff . Passing out business cards gets luxe when Bottega Veneta comes out of your bag. Finally, keep it mobile with this gorgeous iPad case from one of my fave online boutiques, Luisaviaroma which will have your travel companions take a second look at what you're up to.
What do I love most about this time of year? Beyond the fact that today is Christmas (Merry Christmas to everyone as we're only a few days away from the end of the year), it's about updating and pushing the fashion envelope. Our outwear takes on a new role as we are seen more in this gear then anything else. I find myself wearing amazing coats, shoes, etc as I pop in and out of showrooms and I can wear something very simply but I would rather people see how amazing certain coats, sunglasses, purses and boots look. In addition, with all the traveling coming up for HSN appearances, brand discussions with design topics and spokeswork - no matter how fab the temps will be - I will still have to board a plane out of NYC to get there!
With that said, this is what I am hoping is under one of the trees that I will visit. If not, I will definitely take the first 2 weeks in January acquiring these items that will be a major staple in my wardrobe. I believe when you're in cold weather, you need a chic coat so a Shearling one will be essential and with a number of pics being taken before you can even shimmy out of your coat - it has to be perfect. A great pair of boots that are over the knee will keep you warm and of course an amazing bag becomes the central focus of a look. Capping it all off with oversized sunglasses allows you to remain classic while being very chic. This is the winter signature look for me and as I get these items, I know you will see them in upcoming pictures!
Sometimes I wake up knowing I have tons to do, set events to attend and yet I don't know how the day will end - today is such a day. So with that said, I dress for not only maximum comfort but my fave accessories. I am obsessed over this kimono top and love the whole feminine blush effect that has whimsy. But I also love adding a hint of edge with all the accessories that appear in today's spread. Last night I just purchased a pair of over the knee boots in grey with fab hardware which made me inspired to put this in the look as this top can be paired with leggings or jeans of your choice. I talk with my hands a lot so it's important that I have a ring full of personality. Of course it's always all about the bag and how cute is this hobo as I never know what I will pick up along the way!
It's a lazy day but it's all about football whether you're into the game or you're coming to enjoy some fabulous nibbles. I love fall Sundays as it's always all about cozying up with cardigans. I have been rocking Ann Taylor Loft's necklace over the past few days and love that it has a mix of chunky chain and the bling that I enjoy wearing. This week, I've also enjoyed being around Rebecca Minkoff and her collection so how can you not have one of her super cute hobos! Finally pair the fab accessories with a pair of skinny jeans (or jeggings) and add in a cozy sweater!
Last week, I sent out a major call for Accessories Designers to send in their information to be apart of Project Accessory! The response has been amazing and we have great shows starting April 6th! I'm proud to say that most of April and May has been taken up for these weekly slots. You guys know that I am a fanatic about organization as I love my Editorial Calendars so having yet another calendar to work on is amazing. Although slots are filling up, we still have plenty of room as we will do this throughout the year and many of the designers will make it into a book that will also be apart of this theme.
Continue to flood my inbox whether we have worked together or haven't. There are so many fabulous rings, belts, shoes, clutches, hobo bags, earrings, cuffs, bracelets, etc that need to be shown. In addition, there are amazing designers that I see at the Accessories Shows, other trade shows and of course within their showrooms that I can't keep those goodies to myself. Today's post is yet another call to action as we begin filming next week and for now, I'm keeping the designers under wraps but they are pretty phenomenal. Above are pieces that are definitely amazing to include in your spring and summer wardrobes. Thank you to everyone that has submitted as it's quite a process but I am looking at your lookbooks, websites, etc and the calendar to fit you in. If you haven't heard a response yet, I will be in touch soon. You can also find out additional information by visiting Project Accessory on The Style Pod. This is where there will be information about designers that are participating, our media partners (we have a huge one that we can't mention just yet but it's exciting) many of the call outs will go here but of course the content will also be here as well.
A classic dress is an essential to any wardrobe regardless of your style. When it comes to the It dress that everyone should have, I urge everyone to think about getting the classic wrap dress from Diane Von Furstenberg. It never goes out of style and it doesn't take a lot to add to it whether you're going out for drinks, heading to work etc! Of course being someone who loves accessories, you know that I can't leave you without adding a few gems! First of all make sure to have a cute heel (check my Jimmy Choo's would be perfect for this) and then think about your cute hand bag whether you opt for a clutch, hobo, etc. Finally, jewelry is always an essential. Now Nicole Ritchie has been a part of a lot of fashionable collaborations but her jewelry line, House of Harlow, is such a great boho chic line. Now what I love about this is that she is actually about to make pieces exclusively for Bebe and will be available on their site and in stores by the end of the week!
I love that although this jewelry is super cute, they're best when separated to add a little more oomph to your outfit which is perfect to mix and match everything! I love the pattern and love the tribal elements of the pieces which adds a great flavor to the classic wrap dress! Take some time to think about classic elements that you should be adding to your closet while making sure your accessories allow us to know more about your personality!
When you're busting your butt and you're running all over the place, you need a second to come up for air. I find that it helps when I'm wearing something that's comfortable and not so confining. In my world of copious visits to various coffee houses, showrooms, lounges and more - I never know when a friendly chat turns into a fab business opportunity so my best bet is to be chic. With the changing of the seasons it can be a little difficult. One day I'm in full winter mode and the next I'm reminded that it's just fall. Whatever way you decide to bridge that gap (thin knitted caps are your best bet until it starts getting cold enough where you only see your breath), make sure that once your coat is off that you look transitional.
My biggest thing is in the accessories department, just because the weather has turned doesn't mean I still can't wear seashells - I'll just get some whose color is reflective of the season. I have this ring in a cream color that I got from the Dominican Republic; however, a dear friend @KarenRobinovitz, Creatrix of Purple Lab NYC told me that I should check out Mesi Jilly! Of course I realize that although I have yet to meet her, I am very familiar with her work as I have been drooling over it for a couple of years at least! I love that she takes the natural shell to another level and encrusts it with enough glitz to make me giddy!
So I have many days where I do "Kimmie old school" or I love to wear black as I do believe in the whole Audrey sense of style and although I know that the color palette extends beyond my faves (black, grey and cream), I am allowed to go back and embrace them anytime I want. LC by Lauren Conrad presents a fashionably classic approach to the Dolman sweater which also makes it perfect in terms of price point. Growing up, I remember my mom wearing these sweaters with a Calvin Klein jean and riding boots - interesting how it all comes back again except I'll reach for this TopShop jean which is not only a skinny but will have a few extra inches which will look fab with the Dolce & Gabbana snakeskin heels. As a side note, you can be super casual and once you throw on a heel with a little texture you come from coffee house to cute cafe or bistro in ten seconds. A lariat is a cute way to include a messy but uber classy look and this touch of golden essence is perfect for this outfit since it creates pops of vibrant color. Finally, complete the look with an awesome bag. As you know, I'm a huge fan of my Cole Haan woven bag. The shape is great and once again that texture is devine; therefore, how much more do you think I love this one by Jimmy Choo? I love the bangle that you can actually wear or let it stay as hardware and I like it has a hint of metallic as well.
When it all comes together, this look works well when you're running around all day (don't be shy if you feel the need to switch into flats - just make it snakeskin). If you get invited to a signing, drinks after work or anything of that nature, you don't have to think twice about what else needs to be done in order to fit in with whatever everyone else is wearing. The transitional look can be difficult in terms of the season but once you have that part taken care of, everything else falls into place!
Ok I have to admit, I get sucked into reality shows which is why I do try to avoid them but it gets to be too much and I either see it every time it airs OR I catch it on a marathon. Case in point, the title of this post comes from one of those shows. TV aside, Maptote makes the cutest tote and hobo bags that let you rep your city! Today I want to give love to the city of Brotherly Love. I love that not only does it map the city but it has images that we all think of when we think of this super cute city. I love the LOVE image, Rocky's famous stance and more. This hobo is perfect and if you think that you need something smaller get it in black or taupe as a tote. If you're an LA, Montreal or Paris girl there is a bag for you. This is definitely something that will be great to wear during the Spring and the Summer and of course you will be quite the conversation piece no matter where you're going. Check out Maptote to see what they have available and with a price at $20 - this is definitely something to make the Lovefest last longer!
She's Kimmie is a virtual scrapbook and is the best way for fans of Kimmie to connect with her, see where she's heading next and of course to get fab insider info!
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.
Ok I have to admit, I get sucked into reality shows which is why I do try to avoid them but it gets to be too much and I either see it every time it airs OR I catch it on a marathon. Case in point, the title of this post comes from one of those shows. TV aside, 
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