Posts filed under 'Trendscape'
We asked: Would you wear Chunky, Textured Knits?
You said: Yes to Chunky, Textured Knits, with a 75-25 split in votes.
Style tip? Chunky, textured knits add visual and actual volume, which means that they’re not the most figure flattering fabric. But what they lack in flattery, they make up for in style. These chunky knits look great layered, especially in a monochromatic color scheme, which, in neutral colors, is completely on point (not to mention uber-sophisticated) for Fall. When layering, try mixing weights (e.g. chunky with thin) and textures (e.g. rough with smooth). Last style tip? A slim pant or skirt works well with these more voluminous sweaters.
Next question: Denim on denim is a tricky style statement to pull off. You don’t want to look too matchy-matchy, but then again, there’s no better time than now to try out the look. With this season’s focus on denim, you have a wide variety of weights, textures, and colors of denim to choose from. But what do you think? Tell us, would you wear denim on denim? Cast your vote on the sidebar!
Pictured: Arrow Sweater Jacket | $138 at J Crew.
August 29th, 2010

Smart and sophisticated are two adjectives that aren’t usually attached to cutoff shorts. But as these denim short shorts have been rising on the trend charts this summer, it’s worth getting some extra mileage out of them, beyond wearing them with the usual suspects - a tank or tee and sandals. Simply pair your denim cutoff shorts with sophisticated basics - a loosely fitted blouse and boyfriend blazer. Finish off the look with a pair of pumps (don’t you love that zipper detailing?) and a sophisticated handbag. The resulting look puts you at the intersection of polished and playful, and it’s perfect layering for summer days.
Denim cutoffs aren’t for you? Switch out the cutoff shorts for a pair of distressed boyfriend jeans for a more conservative look.
Here’s how to get the look:
Pins and Needles Watercolor Chiffon Blouse | $58 at Urban Outfitters
Distressed Chain Shorts | $18.90 at Forever 21
Ruched Sleeve Blazer | $125 at Topshop
Guess Fedran HH Platform Bow Detail Shoes | $166.82 at ASOS
Premium Leather Weave Holdall | $168.50 at ASOS
How do you wear denim cutoff shorts? Share your style with us in the comments!
August 27th, 2010
We asked: Would you wear the Boyfriend Belt?
You said: Yes to the Boyfriend Belt, with a 84-16 split in votes.
Style tip? Boyfriend Belts, so named for their uber-long length (that would presumably fit your boyfriend’s waistline) that allows them to be folded over just so, are the key belt silhouette this fall. We’ve worn them this summer as a fantastic finish for oversized shorts and boyfriend jeans - and even the occasional dress whose volume requires a bit of reigning in. This fall, we’ll be pairing the boyfriend belt with slim skirts and drapey trouser pants. We’re liking thinner versions of the belt to pair with pencil skirts and delicate cardigans - and chunkier, thicker versions of the belt to pair with heavier fabrics and silhouettes.
Next question: We’re starting to gear up for Fall Fashion, and chunky, textured knits are high on our radar. But what do you think? Tell us, would you wear chunky knits? Cast your vote on the sidebar!
Pictured: Leather Boyfriend Belt | $30.33 at ASOS.
August 22nd, 2010
We asked: Would you wear Blousy Harem Pants?
You said: No to Blousy Harem Pants, with a 82-18 split in votes.
Style tip? Harem Pants are one of those fashion trends that you either love or hate - there’s hardly anyone who feels indifferent about them. Proponents of harem pants appreciate their unusual silhouette, but detractors are quick to dock these pants for their particularly unflattering fit. Harem Pants are certainly a statement pant, and if you choose to wear them, do so with a top that’s more fitted for a small-over-big silhouette. A tall pair of heels can also help to counteract the somewhat unflattering fit of these blousy pants by making your legs look longer.
Next question: The Boyfriend Belt, an extra long belt that you can fold over, is the key belt trend of the season. But what do you think? Tell us, would you wear a boyfriend belt? Cast your vote on the sidebar!
Pictured: Cross Front Extreme Harem Pants | $80 at Topshop.
August 16th, 2010

What do you need to update your closet this month? Greys, greys, and more greys - the perfect neutral to start to transition your closet into Fall. We’re going for interesting silhouettes and textures, and a decidedly ladylike look. We’re digging grey boyfriend skinny jeans, lace embellished tops, marled knits, and Spanish style grosgrain trimmed coats. Here’s Omiru’s top picks for August 2010:
1. Catalunya Coat | $598 at Anthropologie
2. Layered Ruffle Skirt | $79.50 at Banana Republic
3. Silence & Noise Extreme Cape Back Tee | $48 at Urban Outfitters
4. BR Monogram Grey Slouchy Skinny Jean | $89.50 at Banana Republic
5. Leather Croc Lock Across Body Bag | $84.25 at ASOS
6. Cooperative Sunday School Dress | $58 at Urban Outfitters
7. Herringbone Plaid Boy Shirt | $79.50 at J Crew
8. Silk Lace Front Shell | $69.50 at Banana Republic
9. Marled Knit Thandie Blazer | $158 at J Crew
What will you be wearing this month? Share your style in the comments!
August 13th, 2010
We asked: Would you wear Cats Eye Sunglasses?
You said: Yes to Cats Eye Sunglasses, with a 53-47 split in votes.
Style tip? Cats Eye Sunglasses recall the 1950s (with their dramatic swooping frames) and the 1980s, when they reappeared with a softer silhouette. If you’re looking for a statement, try the 1950s style dramatically shaped frames - which look lovely juxtaposed against rounder faces. For more angular faces, try a softer sunglasses style to visually round out the face.
Next question: Harem Pants, whose silhouette is leaner on the leg and blousy up top, have been on the style radar for a couple of seasons now. They’re a dramatic silhouette that’s certainly not for everyone, but they’ve had surprising staying power. But what do you think? Tell us, would you wear harem pants? Cast your vote on the sidebar!
Pictured: Damsel Cat Eye Sunglasses | $16 at Urban Outfitters.
August 9th, 2010
We asked: Would you wear Brogues?
You said: Yes to Brogues, with a 63-37 split in votes.
Style tip? Brogues (aka Wingtip Shoes) have been making a statement on both sides of the Atlantic. They feature punched patterns (aka brogueing) along the seams and outer layers of the shoe - and are traditionally a menswear shoe. Though brogues are now made for both women and men, they still retain their classic masculinity - and as such are a perfect counterpoint to feminine outfits. We love the juxtaposition of a menswear-inspired brogue against a flirty, feminine summer dress. Just remember to skip the socks.
Next question: Cats eye sunglasses feel very retro - yet au courant. And they certainly make a statement. But what do you think? Tell us, would you wear cats eye sunglasses? Cast your vote on the sidebar!
Pictured: Kameryn Canvas Brogues | $110 at Topshop.
August 2nd, 2010
What’s the easiest way to give your wardrobe a pick-me-up? Accessories, accessories, accessories. And this summer, the statement necklace is here to inject some drama into the sea of neutrals that’s defining fashion this season. How to wear the statement necklace? Juxtaposed against basics - the blank canvas will allow these necklaces to shine. Here’s six statement necklaces to spice up your summer neutrals:

1. Fenton/Fallon for J. Crew Carrington Chain and Needle Necklace | $195 at J Crew
The chain link detailing, combined with the spikes, make this necklace a fantastic counterpoint to a feminine frock.
2. Assorted Initial Pendant | $24 at Urban Outfitters
Personalize your necklace with your initials.
3. Two Strand Beaded Multiplier Necklace | $39.99 at Target
Add a bit of color to a neutral outfit with coral beads and gems.
4. Sequin Twisted Necklace | $118 at Nordstrom
Juxtaposed pearls and chains make for a smouldering textured necklace.
5. Chain and Crystal Twist Necklace | $98 at J Crew
Asymmetric intertwining of steel and gold-plate chain feels so luxe.
6. Antiqued Chainlink Bib Necklace | $6.80 at Forever 21
Pair this chainlink bib necklace with a plain dress for a striking, eyecatching effect.
How would you wear the statement necklace? Share your style with us in the comments!
July 29th, 2010
We asked: Would you wear Cutoff Shorts?
You said: Maybe to Cutoff Shorts, with a 50-50 split in votes.
Style tip? Cutoff shorts had their 15 minutes of fame with Arrested Development’s resident "nevernude" Tobias Funke, but they’re seeing a resurgence this summer, given fashion’s fixation on all things denim. Cutoff shorts work surprisingly well on women with short legs; their short silhouette exposes more leg - and visually elongates your legline. You can further extend the visual length of your leg with a well-chosen pair of sandals or espadrilles, especially one with a heel. Cutoffs don’t have to just be a summer style - wear your cutoffs this Fall as well, paired with tights. Should you choose to wear cutoff shorts, you have a variety of styles to choose from - but our favorites are distressed (the perfect treatment to pair with the cutoff hem) and expose a bit of pocket.
Next question: Brogues, aka wingtips or oxfords, have been in the style spotlight for months. They were a posh pairing for winter clothes, but they also work well as a counterpoint for feminine frocks in warmer weather. But what do you think? Tell us, would you wear brogues? Cast your vote on the sidebar!
Pictured: Levi’s 501 Cutoff Shorts | $50 at Urban Outfitters.
July 25th, 2010
We asked: Would you wear Blousy Shorts?
You said: No to Blousy Shorts, with a 60% to 40% vote.
Style tip? Blousy shorts might not sound like a good idea, but they’re surprisingly wearable on women with a slim bottom half. The key to wearing blousy shorts is to balance out the volume on the bottom with a more form fitting top - and finish off the outfit with a belt to reign in the volume. For maximum figure flattery, choose your shorts in color from the darker side of the color spectrum. We’ve successfully paired an olive pair of blousy shorts with a drapey black tank and a collarless faux leather jacket, finishing off the look with a draped boyfriend belt and a pair of heeled sandals.
Next question: Cutoff shorts remind us of Arrested Development’s Tobias Funke, but we’re finding them strangely appealing despite the association with Funke’s "nevernude." But what do you think? Tell us, would you wear cutoff shorts? Cast your vote on the sidebar!
Pictured: Roll Up Hem Shorts | $60 at Topshop.
July 18th, 2010
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