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Spring 2012 Must Have Trends: “Flaming Heels, Colored Denim, Polka Dots, 70′s Flare to Stiletto Nails”

Jan18

In the fashion world you must always stay at least 6-months ahead of the next season. So with that said, I’m sharing with my readers some of the top must-haves for the upcoming Spring 2012 season. Look forward to seeing color-blocking make another return, including colored denim jeans, making a major splash on the fashion scene. 70′s styles and metallics seem to be very popular as well. Here’s my Spring 2012 vision board for beauty products, slender and plus-size clothing, shoes, bags and more…….

One surprise trend is the “princess” skirt. This showed up on runways such as that of Jason Wu. I remember seeing this trend a few years ago when Sarah Jessica Parker wore hers on the “Sex and the City 2″ movie. 

Last Spring Prada had some of the most wanted trends being that of the stripe dress, monkey prints and chunky heels. This Spring the Prada shoes are a statement again. Checkout these “fireball” sandals inspired by hot wheels cars with flames:

More trends below:

To blend in with the “deep sea” trend from above, I’m lovin this Kate Spade ‘Barclay Street’ Ship Clutch, $358 from shop.nordstrom.com

And these Jimmy Choo Sandals (below) are the bizness

As you see below, polka dots will be “spotted” everywhere this Spring. 

For the curvy gals, here’s a great little polka-dot trench coat from Ashley Stewart, $59.50, sizes XL-4X

Belted Polka Dot Trench Coat

Or this cute polka-dot belt from White House Black Market, $38

The colored denim jeans trend is on the top of my spring list. These can be dressed both up with a blazer or down with a tee. 


For plus-sized colored denim try these aqua jeggings from Ashley Stewart, Sizes 12-26, $36.50

Basic Stretch Jegging

I’ve been eye-balling this new nail trend called “stiletto nails” since last year but just couldn’t really get with it until now. Rihanna is just one of many celebs wearing stiletto nails – acrylic nails that are filed to a point to look like stiletto heels, and then are generally painted in an attention-getting color. I plan to try these out very soon!

To polish those stiletto nails, opt for new spring shades such as Dior Scented Polish  ($23), “YSL Candy Face”  ($30) or the new Nicki Minaj for OPI  collection

This dress called the “The Miranda” was just released today and I already have it at the top of my personal Spring wish list. It’s from designer Monif C. and is available now for pre-order. I can so see me rocking this with my stiletto nails,  $228, Sizes 14/16-22/24

"Miranda" Draped Jersey Gown - PurpleOrange Shell Necklace Turquoise Shell NecklaceIron Fist - Zebracorn Platform Heel (Wide Width) SKU: 567808

Since the Monif C. dress is such a vibrant hue, it can easily be used within the color-blocking trend with these “Sheri” by Jessica Simpson pumps, Sizes 5-11, $98 or either one of these Shell Necklaces from www.curvaceousboutique.com, $34.99 each. But if you wanna bring out your animal instincts, then pair up the dress with these Iron Fist Zebracorn Heels from Torrid, $39

(Remember, everything doesn’t always have to be matchy-matchy to pull a complete look together).

The Look For Less: “2012 Golden Globes Edition”

Jan17

So everybody and their mother has posted a fashion blog about the Golden Globe Awards that took place this past Sunday night. I originally said to myself that I wasn’t gonna do a blog with my commentary on the event, but I just happened to come across some “looks for less” of a few of the red carpet gowns and I just had to share them since I love a good bargain. Plus, if any ladies are looking for similar styles for the upcoming prom season, here are a few Golden Globe looks for a fraction of the price.

All clothing is available from www.unique-vintage.com

(left) Kate Winslet in Jenny Packham, (right) Mignon Keyhole Dress   $258  Sizes 0-16

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(left) Rooney Mara in Nina Ricci, (right) Faviana Mesh Gown  $398   Sizes 0-12

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(left) Paula Patton in Monique Lhuillier, (right) Yellow Ruched Taffeta Gown  $330  Sizes 0-18

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(left) Julianne Moore in Chanel Couture, (right) Black Mermaid Gown   $196  Sizes 4-18

Jason Wu for Target Debuts February 5th

Jan10

Many fashionistas became familar with designer Jason Wu after he became a household name for designing FLOTUS, Michelle Obama’s, Inagural gown. Now he has followed along the footsteps of many other designers and creating an affordable line for retailer Target. Next month, he debuts his 53-piece “gamine chic” collection for the retailer. According to the style.com website Jason says he has managed to translate the same sophistication of his namesake runway collection into his Target line by “not replicating more expensive materials.” Instead of using faux leather for the handbags, for example, he used raffia or canvas. “The focus isn’t just getting Jason Wu at a lower price point,” he says. “It was about creating an entirely new collection that I think my regular customers will enjoy, too.” Jason Wu for Target, $19 to $60, launches in stores February 5.

(Above)

Textured, pleated-front peplum top – gold: $32.99
Pleated skirt in black: $29.99
Lace clutch in black: $29.99

(Center)

Trench coat in black: $54.99
Flared dress in black with nude patent belt: $59.99

pics via “A Bulls Eye View” and “Target Style”

The Bella Styles “January Fashion Report” For Skorch Magazine

Jan9

Recently Skorch Magazine released my January 2012 picks for items that I feel are hot right now. I am a dress kinda gal all-day long so I included in this post some dresses that I think are winners. (I must have been right because a couple of the items are already sold out that quick).  I also believe that the right pump is just what you need to complete your outfit (and I’m a sucker for the studs trend). The following six items can be worn to either work, a dinner function or partying with friends. I would pair the Asos dress in #4 with the Sam Edelman pumps in #6. Or the slinky navy dress by IGIGI  by Yuliya Raquel #2 or dress #3 with the statement Vince Camuto pump #1. You choose your faves!

By Bella Styles, Executive Fashion Editor www.bellastyles.net

1. Vince Camuto ‘Jamma’ Pump    $139.95 from www.shop.nordstrom.com

2. Becca Asymmetric Dress by IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel   $160 from www.sonsi.lanebryant.com

3. Alex Evenings Beaded One Shoulder Jersey Dress (Plus)   $168 from www.shop.nordstrom.com

4. ASOS CURVE EXCLUSIVE Drape Dress With Flower Crochet Trim  $127.26

5. Batwing Dress $59.90 from  www.avenue.com

6. Sam Edelman Roza Pumps   $225.00 Now $135 from www.dillards.com

http://skorchmagazine.com

OOTD: My IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel Gown from Sonsi for My CBS Interview

Dec19

Last week I had the pleasure of being a guest on my local CBS “Virginia This Morning” show. I did a segment on “New Year’s Eve Fashion”. I was honored to have Sonsi, the #1 website for plus-size shopping, sponsor my dress for the segment and I chose a gown from IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel. I have worn Igigi before for my  Open House and their clothing always makes you feel like a stand-out.  My gown is called the “Sabina” and was floor-length with a silverish lace insert underneath and at the neckline. I especially like the hint of cleavage that shows at the front of the gown. My dress came with a long silver sash that I accented with my silver and studded jewelry. Celebs from Gabby Sidibe, Nikky Blonksy, Kim Coles, KayCee Stroh, Frenchie Davis and Martha Wash have all worn the IGIGI brand to red-carpet events and other Hollywood galas.  My shoes (although you can’t see them in the pic) were by Enzo Angiolini and completed the look to a tee. With this length of a gown you need a very high heel shoe. These are 5-inches but with the platform heel, I wasn’t in any discomfort wearing them at all.  

Outfit Details:

IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel “Sabina” Gown   $190  Sizes 12-28  www.sonsi.com

Enzo Angiolini “Thaddea” Pump   $119.95    Sizes 4-11   Nordstrom

Jewelry from www.ashleystewart.com

My CBS “Virginia This Morning” Segment on “2011 New Year’s Eve Fashion”

Dec19

On Thursday, December 15, 2011 I had the wonderful opportunity of pre-taping a segment for CBS “Virginia This Morning” on “New Year’s Eve Fashion”.  I received the email to participate in this segment only the week before and I was so excited. I immediately started calling upon my fashion friends to assist me with this project. Let me just say, it was a week to remember.  From pulling clothes, to scouting models, to doing fittings, it all came together beautifully. I met a lot of new sponsors along the way and although I couldn’t squeeze everyone in to the segment, I have some great ideas planned for upcoming projects. I have to especially give thank you’s to all involved from Sonsi, IGIGI,  Nordstrom and Ashley Stewart for coming thru for me. I truly appreciate all of your personal assistance.  My photographer was Jaime Patterson of  “Hidden Exposure Photography”  and she captured some great shots of the segment. My models were Chanay Taylor, Darryl Miles and Lindsey Brown. They did a wonderful job on screen too.  I was interviewed by CBS’s Jessica Noll and we discussed what’s popular to wear on New Year’s Eve. My color scheme was my favorite color of purple, so everyone’s attire had a hint of the hue in it.

Video Clip Here

 

I first off had Chanay represent what  you would likely wear to a New Years Eve’s wedding or an upscale gala.  Her gown was by IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel and is the perfect selection for the occasion. Celebs such as Gabby Sidibe and Nikky Blonsky have been seen on the red-carpet in this designer’s clothing.  I had the pleasure of wearing Igigi on the set as well . These gowns are so luxurious on and you are sure to be a stand-out at any event that you attend.

Next was Mr. Debonaire, Darryl, in his attire provided by Nordstrom.  Honestly, this was my first time styling a guy, besides my son,  so I had to bring it. I’m trying to step out of the box with just styling plus-size women so I am very proud of the outcome look on Darryl. For his attire I had him to coordinate with my other female models’ outfits. He would be able to escort either model, Chanay or Lindsey, to NYE events. I had him in the sophisticated b-boy look with a blazer, vest, dress-shirt,  pocket-square and denim jeans.  Most of his clothing was by designer Ben Sherman, English Laundry and Cole Haan.  (BTW, all of Darryl’s clothing is on sale now thru January 6th during Nordstrom’s  Big Holiday sale)

Lastly, I had model Lindsey in clothing provided by Ashley Stewart. She is wearing the trends of faux-fur, studs and and skinny pants.  This outfit would be perfect for a girls-night-out themed NYE’s event. If you’re dancing the night away into the new year, you can easily remove the  shrug and show off your studded purple bustier blinging off the disco ball in the center of the room.  Notice that Ashley Stewart now sells the “basketball wives” style earrings.  Since Lindsey is wearing these  statement earrings I didn’t put a necklace on her because I felt that would clash with the studs on her bustier. I only did one piece of jewelry on each hand, a bracelet on one arm and a ring on the other hand,  to not over accessorize  her. Lindsey wore her own shoes , which are a deep pinkish color, and that  proves my point that not everything has to be matchy-matchy in order for it to complete the look.

Here are my models in their looks below:

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

CLOTHING INFO:

Chanay:

Love Spell Gown by IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel  $190.00  Sizes 12-20  www.sonsi.com

Jewelry from www.ashleystewart.com

Sueded Platform Pump  $30 from Charlotte Russe

Darryl:

Ben Sherman ‘Kings’ Trim Fit Geometric Velvet Sportcoat  $295    Nordstrom

English Laundry Trim Fit Dress Shirt   $98.50   Nordstrom

J.Z. Richards Silk Pocket Square   $36.50   Nordstrom

New Era Cap ‘EK Yorker’ Fedora   $46.99   Nordstrom

Ben Sherman Paisley Vest   $125   Nordstrom

Cole Haan ‘Air Aiden’ Loafer  Sizes  7-15  $198  Nordstrom

Jeans, Darryl’s Own

Lindsey:

Faux Fur Cocoon Shrug  $49.50  www.ashleystewart.com

Purple Sleeveless Jeweled Top  $39.50  Sizes XL-3X   www.ashleystewart.com

Grey Skinny Sateen Trouser  $36.50  Sizes 12-26  www.ashleystewart.com

Pewter Rosette Clutch  $34.50  www.ashleystewart.com

Earrings, Bracelet & Ring from www.ashleystewart.com

Shoes: Lindsey’s Own

The segment will air on Tuesday, December 27th at 9am on www.wtvr.com

My Style Picks for Skorch Magazine December 2011

Dec13

http://skorchmagazine.com

With Christmas right around the corner what better time to give Santa your list of all your favorite things that you want. I love this time of year. I’m a beauty & fragrance kinda girl and you can get sets of your favorite scents at the same price you would a single bottle. I personally think that fragrance last longer when you layer it with the shower gel, lotion then the actual perfume. Here are some new scents that I must have:

Balenciaga Paris Holiday Gift Set  $100  http://shop.nordstrom.com/

Prada ‘Candy’ Holiday Set  $108   http://shop.nordstrom.com/

Image 1 of ASOS CURVE Faux Fur Coat with Contrast Hem
I love the two trends of faux fur and color-blocking. So when I saw this two-tone faux fur coat from Asos it immediately went on my must have list. $144. Sizes 16-22
ALEJANDRA
The Asos faux fur coat would go great with these H by Halston for Bakers. $160. Sizes 5-11
Colorblock Envelope<br /><br /><br /> Clutch” /></div> <div id=
A lady should always have a great clutch bag. New plus-size line, Eloquii for The Limited, has just the perfect one. I am totally loving this envelope clutch in the black and cream color scheme. $39.90
"Miranda" Draped Jersey Gown - Emerald Green
Now with the holidays right around the corner, every Skorchette must have that perfect party dress. The green Miranda draped jersey gown from designer Monif C. is at the top of my list. The color itself makes a bold statement and you’re sure to turn heads when you walk into the room. $208, Sizes 14/16-22/24

Another great holiday gown is the “Mia” dress from Virginia boutique owner, Cassandra of Curvaceous Boutique. Sequins is a must have this season and the one-shoulder styling is still in for 2011. I definitely have this on my list for Santa too! $159.99, Sizes L-3X
To contour your curves under your form-fitting holiday gown, make sure to wear a great foundation. Australian based plus-size retailer, City Chic, has just launched their new lingerie collection. This thigh-shaper is sure to give you a smooth look under your garment.
 $69, Sizes 14-24   www.citychiconline.com
My must have holiday coat is this military inspired Jessica London. I love the ivy green color, standing collar and uneven hem. $130 Sizes 12-20
Thumbnail 1
I’m a sucker for jumpsuits. Especially one in a great stretch jersey material. I just feel that a jumpsuit does wonders for a woman with curves. This jumpsuit named “Elite” from Project Runway designer, Qristyl Frazier’s new Epitome collection, is on my must have list as well. It comes in the colors of brown, pink, yellow, white, teal and more and the sizing goes from a 4-22. $200. (Be sure to look out for Qristyl on the show, “All On The Line with Joe Zee”, on the Sundance Channel)
GORGEOUS WP

Now don’t ask me why I like this pump but I have always been attracted to the “bold and unique” items. The spikes just gravitated me towards them. These pumps from Bakers are no exception. I know that I probably couldn’t last an hour in them but they are a must have for me. Even if it’s just for a photoshoot. $165, Sizes 5-12  www.bakersshoes.com


What diva doesn’t love her some MAC makeup? Apparently the flyest diva on the silver screen right now is none other than Miss Piggy. The Muppet icon has teamed up with MAC to present her own line. Complete with liner, lashes and eyeshadow, it’s just what you need to complete any outfit on you must have list!
It’s in MAC stores and online

Skorch Magazine November 2011 Issue: “The Madonna & J-Lo Photoshoot”

Nov4


On Saturday, October 15th I had the honor in styling the photoshoot for the “Madonna and J-Lo” inspired shoot for the November issue of Skorch Magazine (Pages 15-19 and 34-41). Our featured designer was Jovanna Reyes of  Curvysta. The Curvysta line is very classy and stylish and items are custom made. I even got a chance to wear one of her designs to shoot in and it was marvelous. Jovanna came all the way down from Alexandria, Va with her truck loaded with clothing and accessories. She even supplied other designers clothing options and headpieces for the models as well. I was like a kid in the candy store putting looks together from her selections.


The models for the day were Debanie Hall and Shelby Wightman and both were a pleasure to work with. Make-Up was done by Charlene Easter of Epiphany Beauty and the hairstylist was Tahnesha Ervin of  Top Notch Styles. It all couldn’t be complete without my wonderful photographer Kermit Gresham who took these awesome pictures.  Everyone on set vibed so well together and the 8 hours that we shot went by so quickly.

The theme for the shoot was the 80′s Madonna look with all of her chains, fishnets and heads full of curls. Then we also used actress/singer Jennifer Lopez as inspiration via her “Jenny from the Block” era. Shelby (J-Lo) was styled in furs by Jones New York, Guess and BCBG. Her shoes were by Nine West, DSW and I even pulled off my very own shoes that I was wearing to complete one of her looks. All headpieces for both models, except for the ivory fur hat, bow headband and the Torrid leopard hat, were provided by designer Arturo Rios. All of model Debanie’s (Madonna) clothing was from the Curvysta Black Label. (Except for her black lace dress). Please check out the Curvysta website to purchase these one of a kind designs: www.curvysta.com









The Look For Less: “Stella McCartney’s Polka-Dot ‘Lucia’ Dress”

Oct6

I have been obsessing over this Stella McCartney “Lucia” sheer sleeved polka-dot dress ($2,155) ever since I first blogged on it as a must have for Fall 2011. Many celebs have already been seen wearing it on red carpet events. It comes in different styles too. Over the past few weeks I’ve been seeing quite a few similar patterned dresses on various websites. So if you like this style too take a look at a few more of the inexpensive choices:

ASOS One Sleeve Dress with Spot Mesh   $69.84  http://us.asos.com

Spot Mesh Prom Dress   $135.00   www.simplybe.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The 2011 “Fall Iconic Collection” by Igigi

Oct4

Do you remember that beautiful purple floral dress I wore a while back for one of my events? (If not, that post is here). It was from 2010 “Full Figured Fashion Week” Designer of the Year, Igigi. It is still one of my favorites of all time. I just got my hands on the new line from Igigi entitled, “The Fall Iconic Collection”. The FALL ICONIC COLLECTION is a delightful juxtaposition of structured tailoring and soft draping that create curve-defining looks. Animal prints, seamed and elongated pencil skirts, origami tops, ruched and draped dresses, and coats provide for a flattering, chic, and stylish wardrobe.

Tailored and waist-defining wide-leg pant and elongated pencil skirt suits in rich tweeds, animal prints, and embellished, side-slit dresses are just some of the highlights in IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel’s FALL ICONIC COLLECTION inspired by the golden ages of some of Hollywood’s most glamorous screen icons 40s through the 60s. Founder and Head Designer to the award-winning American label, Yuliya Raquel has created a collection that lets us have a piece of our own Grace Kelly in the chic, ladylike styles; enjoy Greta Garbo’s impeccable cool in her men’s wear inspired suits; and reenact Gilda in the sensuous femme fatale gowns ala Rita Hayworth. Designed and made in the San Francisco Bay Area, FALL ICONIC COLLECTION is now available in sizes 12-32 at http://www.igigi.com. Prices range from $60 to $320.