If you’re at all tuned-in to the fashion blogosphere, you probably witnessed Cupcakes and Cashmere’s April fool’s tease: The Statement Anklet. While the 4/1 post date was a pretty obvious indication that we were being tricked, I have to admit that I’m actually a little bit upset that this “trend” is a hoax! After all…those ubiquitous statement necklaces of yesteryear HAVE been taking up more space in your jewelry box than on your neck as of late, no? Plus, nothing jazzes up a bare leg like some jewels, right? 😉 K, maybe not, but I’m all about a little ankle icing every now and then. I mean THESE?! Kind of fabulous. Honestly, if this trend catches on, I won’t hate it.
Were you a victim of any April Fools shenanigans yesterday? Any similarly awful-but amazing styles you secretly love?
xo,
Liza, Editorial Director
Tag Archives: Hot or Not
Hot or Not: Candy Couture
From Charlotte Olympia to Swatch, candy gone couture seems to have become fashion’s latest accessory trend. Even Chanel has taken part–Lagerfeld himself sent logo-emblazoned candy-inspired creations pictured above down his runway last week! Though those double-Cs won’t be available until August, the aforementioned offering from Charlotte Olympia–a pair of $945 pastel pumps complete with a “candy bracelet-inspired anklet”–are up for grabs right now. Love the look, but aren’t willing to drop nearly $1000 on an ultra-trendy item? Swatch’s “Caramellisima” watch clocks in (ha) at $60 and provides massive (adorable) style mileage. At an even CHEAPER price point, Perpetual Kid keeps it classic with this $6 faux candy necklace choker. Love!
What do you think of the candy couture trend? Is this a look you like? Something you’d wear? Hot or Not?!
xo,
Liza, Editorial Director
Camouflage: Hot, Not, & How To Rock It.
Glamouflage. Image Credit.
Personally, when I think of camouflage, I think of sixth grade, army pants, and the Destiny’s Child video for Survivor. Though camo isn’t necessarily a huge trend, it does have sticking power. From “hunter-chic” to “hiding in plain site”, the tricky print has been popping up all over as of late–on hats, in street style photos, over pants, in varying hues. The newest iteration of the camo crop mixes the traditionally tough pattern with a decidedly more feminine aesthetic–think, silk scarves and shirts, floaty dresses, fitted crops, and in muted neutral tones….Though of course, classic camo combat jackets always seem to retain their cool factor. Just because a particular print is prevalent, however, doesn’t mean that it’s not polarizing–camo may have lovers, but it isn’t everyone’s favorite print. If you’re on the fence, (but obviously open to experimenting) here are three easy ways to work a little camouflage into your wardrobe.
How To Wear (& Rock!) Camouflage
- Go classic. When it comes to styles you find questionable, it’s almost always best to keep things simple. Simply put, DON’T MIX TRENDS! Ditch camo-covered skinny jeans and opt instead for the aforementioned army jacket. The result: increased wearability and style longevity.
- Use it as an accent. One of the easiest ways to wear even the scariest trends is to use it extra sparingly. Let camo, for example, make a cameo via shoes, a scarf, or your phone case. Little commitment, but a little extra interest and great style payoff.
- Make everything else ultra-feminine. I’m a sucker for dichotomy, so naturally, one of my favorite ways to see the camo trend is when it takes a girly twist. A camo jacket + slip dress + the perfect pair of pointy-toe heels = the ultimate model-off-duty application of camouflage. Pair your tough camo pieces with lots of jewelry, pretty skirts and dresses, and impeccable hair and makeup. Bonus pro tip: Don’t be afraid to mix patterns! Camo looks especially great with leopard and geometric prints.
What’s your take on the camo trend? Is it HOT or NOT?
xo,
Liza, Editorial Director
Hot Or Not: Over-The-Knee Boots
As far as footwear trends are concerned, over-the-knee boots aren’t exactly the new kids on the block. Like any statement-making shoe, however, they do skew a bit towards questionable at times. OTK lovers praise the boots for their ability to instantly sex-ify every outfit–a definite perk for daring dressers. Naysayers of the style, however, question OTK’s wearability, comfort, and general attractiveness. In short, people are torn! Naturally we have to weigh in 😉 Peep these style snaps before making the final call!
Though thigh-high boots definitely have the ability to be super sexy–some would say too sexy–the style doesn’t have to be skanky in the least! Tips for toning it down? First and foremost, consider the rest of your outfit! I love a pair of tall boots paired with a feminine, as seen above. If everything else is more demure or relaxed, OTK boots will work to add some fun dichotomy and spice to your look. If all else fails, simply select a boot sans stilettos – flats or a chunky heel work well to temper that inherent sex appeal.
Stylish, sophisticated, and sexy: is this the perfect outfit?! The addition of wedge-heeled OTK boots in this jewel-toned fall look really take this ensemble to the next level. Even better? They’re super flattering. While I’m not sure of the exact height of the girl pictured, dusters, large scarves, and thigh highs can be difficult pieces to pull off if you’re under 5’10, and she has combined all of them into one look! But it works! The duster sweater shortens, the boots lengthen, and with the scarf’s added volume, the visual impact of the look isn’t just straight up and down. It’s an unexpected combination that totally works.
A bohemian twist on over-the-knee boots?! Yepper! And, Vanessa Hudgens isn’t the only celebrity who loves a good pair of OTKs–Rihanna, Kate Moss, and the entire Kardashian clan are all fans of the trend, and each wear them in very distinct, individual ways. Love a trend that you can easily make your own.
So, are over-the-knee boots HOT or NOT?
The choice is yours, Mieuxs! Yes or no? Would you wear over-the-knee boots?
xo,
Liza, Editorial Director
Hot or Not: Flares
Since everything in fashion is so heavily cyclical, it only makes sense that 70s-staple flared bottoms are experiencing a style resurgence. From jumpsuits to jeans, bell-hemmed bottoms are all over the fashion world this fall. But is the trend real world wearable? We’ll touch on a few of the pros and cons.
Flares: Hot or Not?
- Pro: Flared bottoms create the illusion of a longer leg. I once read that teeny tiny, itty bitty celeb stylist Rachel Zoe wears only bell bottoms (and stacked platforms or–in her own words–“tranny heels”) in order to create an extra-long, streamlined silhouette. Honestly, it works! Not only does a flared bottom cover the majority of just about any shoe thus concealing even the highest heel, but it also doesn’t break up the look
- Con: They can look dated or costume-y. As much as I adore the gausey, printed, hippie/gypsy-inspired bell bottoms of late, you must admit that they aren’t the most wearable for a non-bohemian girl on a daily basis. If your style tends more towards the conservative, classic, or urban lens, this particular variety of bells may not be for you.
- Pro: They can provide balance to curvier hips and thighs. Remember the 7FAMK ‘Dojo’ jeans of yesteryear? The wide-leg, low waist cut was a cult fave, which makes total sense when you consider how especially flattering the pair was on women with more athletic and curvaceous thighs. Wider thighs + wide leg jeans = perfect proportions.
- Con: They can look less professional than a straight or skinny leg. Though the inherent bohemian vibe of a wide-leg pant is a pro for many, the style does look more casual than the other aforementioned cuts. That’s not to say that a flare can’t look totally formal and chic! It totally can–it just involves more calculated tailoring and styling than s/s bottoms.
- Pro: Flares serve as a super-comfy alternative to the skinny jean. Tired of stuffing your legs into ultra-tight jeggings day after day, season after season? Yeah…Us too. Ditch them in favor of some extra breathing room…It’s even good for your circulation.
So, Mieuxs: What do YOU think?
What’s your personal verdict on flares? Do or don’t? Hit or miss? Hot or not? You get the final word!
xo,
Liza, Editorial Director
Want It Wednesday: Free People Railroad-Printed Overalls
In all honesty, this post should really be titled Got It Wednesday. After weeks of wavering, rather undercover coveting, I finally caved and bought these Free People shortalls.
I first laid eyes on them in a window display at Dry Goods, and believe me, it was not love at first sight. I’m a huge Free People fan–my favorite lines, in no particular order, are Free People, Rebecca Taylor, and Isabel Marant–but when I saw these cut-off overalls I was not so much a fan. Overalls are an incredibly polarizing trend, and even though they’re rooted in 90s sartorial goodness, I wasn’t initially willing to take a trip back in time. But then, something weird happened: I found myself actually warming up to overalls. And really, I don’t just mean warming up–considering the fact that I was down to spend over $100 on a pair, I’d say I’d somehow fallen head-over-heels with the look. I blame this heavily on festival fashion snaps (I’m looking at you, Glastonbury and Coachella), Free People’s website, and Urban Outfitters. Also, right around the time I started to embrace the overall trend, these babies went on sale. I was in.
Check out these cuties styling their FP shorteralls like little fashion pros! They’re totally multi-season appropriate. Images via Free People.
I ordered my discounted pair on Piperlime late last week (they’re set to arrive tomorrow!!) and since then I’ve been pouring over street style photos, how-to-wear articles, and any website whatsoever that features this particular pair of overalls in an attempt to prepare myself for their delivery. The trend itself may be questionable, but if they’re going to make overalls that appeal to me, I’m sure as hell going to get them. And wear them, obviously.
What do you think of overalls? Shortalls? Is this a trend you’ve tried? What are you wanting this Wednesday? I wanna know! Leave a note and share your thoughts!
xo,
Liza, Editorial Director
Hot or Not: Mixing Metals
Generally, our Hot or Not segments center around a particular trend, piece of clothing, or fad, but not this one! For this installment, we’re changing things up. Our focus is an age-old styling question: when it comes to accessorizing, is mixing metals a do or a don’t?
We’ll cover both sides of the argument and provide you with some styling tips for embracing the look here, and then you can weigh in with a final verdict in the comments below! 😉
The Pros
- Layering is a snap. Nothing looks more effortless or bohemian than layering necklaces, bracelets, or rings, but adding the element of mixed metals makes the look more bold! Ditching the matchy-matchy jewelry look for one that incorporates multiple colors of metal might even make you feel a little rebellious!
- Anything goes. Because you don’t have to worry about maintaining a single pallet, mixing metals leaves you free to wear any/all of your favorite pieces at any given time. Besides, do you really only own only gold pieces or only silver? What about when you factor in shoes or hardware on clothing, shoes, or handbags?! Yeah. Mixing things up allows you to rock your silver, gold, rose gold, and stones on your own terms.
Multifaceted mixed metals and materials: Bracelets, rings, and earrings is varying shades and textiles. Image via Pinterest.
The Cons
- It can look messy. Clash alert! Obviously, one of the “dangers” in embracing this trend is that the mixing of metals and materials can appear a bit messy, confusing, or unkempt, like you couldn’t make up your mind.
- It’s against “the rules”. If you’re a follower of old-school fashion rules like “don’t wear white after Labor Day” or “never mix navy and black”, then you probably won’t like the untraditional look offered by mixing metals.
How to Do It Right
Sparkles and shades! The perfect stack. Image via Pinterest.
- Make it intentional. If your jewelry is all in the same family (think, dainty rings paired with simple bangles, or chunky watches and statement rings) then the appearance of multiple colors of metal isn’t as jarring. Another tip for making your mixed metallics appear intentional is to stick with a ratio: some people do 50/50, some go for 75/25…Just steer clear of 99/1! Find a ratio that works for you and your accessories and go with it.
- Go for pieces that are pre-mixed. It’s not at all uncommon to find a bracelet, watch, or ring that actually features the mixing of metals as an accent in its design, like this piece from AE. This is a great way to try out the look without committing to full-on mixing. Pre-mixed pieces also work as connectors, tying together a mixed-metallic theme by assuring onlookers that your blended style isn’t at all accidental.
- Consider proximity. Whether or not you choose to use a pre-mixed piece as a styling bridge, being aware of the proximity of your differently-colored accessories can help to make a more cohesive look. If you include more than one type of metal in a single area of wear (rocking fingers of multi-colored rings, vs a silver ring and a gold necklace, for example,) the mixing tends to look more harmonious and purposeful.
- Stack it up. When it comes to a stack, and especially an arm party, pretty much anything goes. A watch can be next to a wrap bracelet, which could be next to a friendship bracelet, which could be next to a bangle–all of which could continue until your forearm is covered. A good stack is less about individual pieces of jewelry than it is about the overall look achieved by the pairing of those pieces. Don’t be afraid to play around with a variety of textures, materials, or colors–you can pull it off!
Another take on mixed metallics: silver, gold, and a bit of ebony enamel. Love. Image via Pinterest.
What’s your opinion on mixing metals? Do you consider this a do or a don’t? Which look do you prefer? Leave your vote with a comment!
xo,
Liza, Editorial Director
Hot or Not: The Patriotic Bikini
With Independence Day less than a week away, the style conscious crowd probably has 4th of July ensembles on the brain! The piece in question today–the patriotic bikini–is one that seems to make an annual appearance. After all, if there’s one time and place that seems appropriate to don an all-American look, it’s the 4th!
For a minute (read: about three years) when I was growing up, all of the cool kids (read: everyone and his or her mom) wore the same thing on the 4th of July: A flag-emblazoned standard tee from Old Navy. In 2013, however, patriotism has gotten a bit more…chic. Or at least as chic as stars and stripes can be! The flag bikini is a simple, inexpensive way to add a touch of Americana to any summer look, but it’s a piece that’s often rather polarizing. One set of girls loves the flag-kini–they’re seasonable, a little bold, and have a particular sex appeal when paired with cut-offs and a cowboy hat. Other women, however, wouldn’t be caught in a flag bikini if their lives depended on it! Some naysayers find the article too costumey, only wearable for a day or two out of the year, or even totally inappropriate. So… which camp are YOU in?!
Buyable: American Flag Swimwear
If you’re into this look, here’s a sampling of pieces you can purchase right now. Who knows–with rush delivery, you may even be able to rock one for Thursday’s barbecue!
Xhilaration 2-Piece Reversible Bikini Swimsuit @Target
American Flag Monokini @GoJane
American Flag Bow Bandeau by MayraFabuleux @Etsy
Freedom Flag Bikini Set @GoJane
All American Girl Flag High-Waisted Bikini by Meshalo @Etsy
An American Piece Bandeau Halter Bikini by Tipsy Gypsy @Luulla
What’s your opinion on patriotic swimwear, Mieuxs? Would you rock a stars and stripes-covered swimmie, or any other piece of clothing for that matter? Is the flag bikini HOT or NOT? Share your thoughts with a comment!
xo,
Liza, Editorial Director
Hot or Not: Summer’s Denim Skirts
While the denim mini skirt is somewhat of a classic for teens and early-twentysomethings in the warmer months, denim skirts of all lengths are making a bit of a trendy comeback! But: are they wearable? We’ll walk you through the longs-and-shorts of the denim skirts of today and, in the end, you can be the judge.
Hot or Not: The New Denim Skirts
The Mini
An update on an old fave! Is this the trendiest mini skirt of 2013? Image via Pinterest.
This is the denim skirt we’ve all worn and loved, at least for a season or two! For an age-appropriate update on the style, though, ditch the light washes, fringe, and distressing in favor of something more classic. The look we’re going for with the denim mini is sultry and traditional, with more of an emphasis on tailoring and style than blatant sex appeal–like this pick from American Apparel. The high waist is on trend and offers an additional few inches of coverage (sans fringe!) for a more adult look. Another way to class things up? Ditch the straight silhouette in favor of a flirty circle skirt!
The Midi
Is the midi skirt a fashion “do” in denim? Image via Pinterest.
What up, 1990s?! Longer denim skirts are about as 90s-hot as jelly shoes and puffy sleeves, and both of those are looks we’ve seen reincarnated on 2013 runways. The in-between length of ANY midi skirt, however, is often polarizing–either you love it or you hate it. If you’re a fan of the midi cut, you have a few denim styling options. You can go ultra-casual with a relaxed fit, light wash, and a little whiskering like this skirt from Free People, or take a more polished aim with a slim-fitting denim pencil skirt. Casual midis look great when teamed with a crop top or tank, while denim pencil skirts can be dressed up for date nights with heels and a silky blouse.
The Maxi
Option number 3: the denim maxi. Into it? Image via Pinterest.
Maxi skirts have been trendy for the better part of the last four summers or so, so it only makes sense that the trend is bleeding into the denim arena. While I love the combination of denim + maxi skirt (think, a chambray top, a denim vest, a jean jacket) I’m a little wary of a maxi skirt constructed entirely of denim material. One of the best parts about a maxi is how flowy and effortless they look and feel–both of which are lost with most denim maxi skirts. Why not just wear jeans? If you’re feeling the bohemian-meets-sabrina-the-teenage-witch vibe (jk, sorta) of the denim maxi, however, rock one! The same basic “maxi” styling principles apply. Keep things fresh, fitted and flirty for balance on top, or go all-out 90s with a vintage pick like this one from Etsy.
What’s the verdict, Mieuxs? Which (if any) of these styles would you wear? Are denim skirts HOT or NOT? Cast your vote with a comment!
xo,
Liza, Editorial Director
Hot Or Not: The Fashion Knee Brace
Polarizing trend alert! Mieux & Mieux readers, meet the fashion knee brace.
Surprised? I was too. While this may come as a shock, the fashion knee brace is kind of a thing. With runways skewing more provocatively than ever with recent body harnesses trend however, perhaps this isn’t so hard to believe. Personally, though, I’m torn. Is it lingerie? Is it outerwear? Is it an accessory? Is it even cute? I’m not quite sure–and that tends to bother me.
Stud-free fashion brace over tights? Seems pretty tame to me! Image Credit
Lingerie-inspired fashion has a soft spot in many a woman’s (and a man’s!) heart, and admittedly the badass, dark styling and inherent awkwardness of a leg brace tempers the blatant sex appeal. It’s that kind of weird and creepy Lady GaGa brand of S&M style that somehow still juuuust qualifies as fashion. An acquired taste for certain, but definitely a look that edgy fashionistas could rock. If you’re dying to get your hands (knees?) on one of these pieces, Fox and Owl seems to be the authority in fashion braces. Of course, if you’re cheap and crafty, there’s a do-it-yourself tutorial for everything these days!
Aaand we’re back to edgy: A fierce knee brace layered over printed leggings. Image Credit
How do you feel about the fashion knee brace? Would you wear one? Is this trend hot or not?
xo,
Liza, Editorial Director
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