Now, I often hear from ladies that they just don’t have the right dress to head to a cocktail type event (but not overly formal). Here’s an effortlessly stylish option that will look great now as well as in early Spring. I’d also wear this out for drinks with friends… yes, once in a while, it’s a good idea to step it up from the jeans routine. Malene Birger- Jadino Lace Dress Why I love it: This is an easy-to-wear dress. I know accessories can be intimidating for many people which is why this is a great choice. By simply adding a belt and a pair of bold, big earrings… and fab shoes, of course… you’re ready to go. The coral coloured belt is a great option for spring but since we’re still in the thick of winter here (ugh… ), I’d opt for a deeper, richer colour like emerald green, deep red, indigo, etc. You get the point. The colour palette of this dress leaves you wide open to a ridiculous number of shoe styles or colours. For the last bit of winter (hopefully it’s the last bit), I’d go with a platform pump (a deep, rich colour of course) or even a low bootie (if you’re a bit taller). The neckline is feminine and will really help to elongate the body. This is something most of us will appreciate. Hurry though, I’m sure this dress won’t be around for long. Happy Friday!
Apres ski must-haves: You’ll actually wear these!
First off, Happy New Year! Hope you’ve all had a great holiday season and enjoyed some well-deserved quiet time. I’ve been away visiting my family… had a great time catching up and laughing with everyone at home! During these early January days, I’m lucky enough to find myself on a fun ski getaway for a few days. Since I’m usually bogged down with ski equipment (well, my husband is the one who carries everything…), I try and pack only the essentials for a fun apres ski look. Here are my 5 must-have apres-ski items… ones you’ll actually wear. Snowflake Reversible Hat This chic winter hat that will surely turn heads while keeping YOUR head warm and cozy. It’ll be great all winter long. Sorel Lace Up Boots Lately, I’ve seen a lot of pretend winter boots that are very stylish (for a clunky boot) but are clearly NOT meant for weather that is colder than -2 degrees (C). The ones here are great for an outdoor après ski bevvy (or two) and they’ll actually keep your tootsies toasty. Leggings You know me. I rarely condone leggings as part of one’s wardrobe. By the fire, after a long ski/snowboard day, is one of the few times when I am onboard with this trend. I’d suggest going with a thicker material that has a fun winter pattern. Keep these reserved for a ski trip, a winter weekend at the cottage, or a chilly morning walk with your dog. Sunglasses If you’re going to sit outside for an après ski bevvy (on a warmer winter afternoon), you’ll want to make sure you keep your eyes covered since the reflection of the sun on the snow can be quite damaging. Sporty bright sunglasses with a double bridge? Yes please! Sweater You might have been expecting a more traditional, knitted sweater but I wanted to mix things up a bit. This interesting, unconventional pattern will look killer paired with the patterned legging (above) for a cozy and stylish après ski look. You’ll certainly be able to add this sweater into your regular weekend-casual wardrobe as well (I love when that happens!). Lookng forward to one more fun ski day!
Holiday looks for ladies 50+: Yes please!
Last week, I put together a holiday style segment for Breakfast Television. As always, I had a great time putting this segment together and I also had fun hanging out with Ryan Jespersen… he’s hilarious! The focus of this segment was hoilday style for the 50+ woman. I don’t know about you but I rarely see looks that speak to a 50+ audience that are also stylish, sophisticated, and age appropriate. Ladies, here are three looks just for you. Hope you enjoy! Here’s what I love about these looks: You’ll notice that the skirt length is either at or just above each model’s knee. This will ensure that whether you are standing or sitting at a holiday event, you’ll be comfortable and won’t be Mrs. Flashy McFlasherson at the party. If it’s chilly out, feel free to add nylons to this look. I’d suggest you stay away from thick heavy tights for these looks- it’ll weigh the look down. Each of these outfits are great in that it’ll transition well from the office to an after work or evening holiday business function. I’d say that the outfit on the right would be more appropriate for an evening function because of the rosegold skirt. I’ve added some festive elements with the sparkle and metallic detail in each outfit. Opt for only one piece to add “holiday” into your look – this will ensure that you don’t look like a Christmas tree. On the left, you’ll see that only the blouse has a festive element with all the sparkle. In the middle outfit, the cropped gold jacket (with the cool studded detailing along the collar) is the stand-out piece in this outfit. On the far right outfit, that rosegold sequins skirt, wiht a lace overlay, is clearly the “centerpiece” of this outfit. Each outfit includes a blazer or jacket. The reason for this is to give each model more coverage to the overall look – not everyone wants to show off their arms but that doesn’t mean you need to look dowdy and boring. Also, a structured blazer is a great way to highlight your shape. You’ll notice that the red blazer is lowered in the back and nips in at the model’s waist. I’ve picked shoes that are fun for the holidays and complement each outfit (without matching of course… that’s not stylish). On the right, I’ve chosen a deep eggplant pointed heel (helps to elongate the leg). In the middle, I’ve paired a more festive shoe with this deep magenta dress – this shoe would also look great with a dark jean and a white tee! On the right, the toe and heel are a metaliic gun metal which is a nice contrast to the grey material on the rest of the shoe. For accessories, my personal style preference is a couple of bold pieces. I don’t really like to go overboard with jewellry, particularly for these outfits since there is a lot of detail in the garments.