$5 sale hats at H & M

Of course we have all seen snippets of the men’s wear look that women are mirroring the past seasons like the boyfriend sweater and tweeds. My favorite masculine look is the hat. Real men like Frank Sinatra & his rat pack embraced the trend in the past that continues today but, this time around, women are following the same path. I love seeing Maria Bellows on  the new show “Prime Suspect” chasing the bad guys with this accessory. Check out the big sale at H & M that is selling men inspired hats for $5. What a deal!!

Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen attend the jcpenney launch event at Pier 57 on January 25, 2012 in New York City. Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for jcpenney

JCPenny hasn’t always been a brand synonymous with style and fashion. However, all that has changed as the brand adds Ellen DeGeneres to their design team that also includes celebrities Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Cindy Crawford, Martha Stewart and Nanette Lepore. These recent partnerships are part of the brand’s fresh new look that will be featured in stores across America.

Nanette Lepore, Photo: John Aquino (WWD.com)

We love color blocking, why not add some to our shoes? Dolce Vita’s Babette Suede Platform Sandals are a steal at $99, and we love the gold trim accent.  These shoes are total 70′s mod!  Jimmy Choo’s “Samos” Sandals are absolutely to die for.   Totally chic and architectural, plus we love the earthy edge to this shoe.   It also comes in bright bold colors for spring, but you can’t find these color options online! Find your nearest Choo retailer to try on different colors.    Wear with Michael Kor’s Leather-trimmed Cotton Dress.

Yes, we are in the middle of winter but it is always fun to add some color and to think spring. Bright colors are going to be strong. I love the look of these pieces from H & M which add the right punch of color to our wardrobe of black to bring sunshine to us on those drab days of winter.

H & M blouse, $17.95, Pencil skirt, $24.95, Black Jacket, $39.95

American Heart Association presents National Wear Red Day in efforts to bring awareness to heart disease among women.  Join in on the efforts sponsored by Macy’s and Merck by wearing red on February 3rd. You can also support by setting up a fundraising page, promoting the campaign and making donations.  Visit the website for more information. Don’t forget to wear your RED!

A statement piece of jewelry is always stunning but can you pair it with another statement piece and still look chic? Layered Statement Jewelry has been seen on the streets for years now and is finally transitioning to the red carpet; is a statement piece meant to stand alone? What do you think, In or Out?

Posted by: Devin Cave

This Fall we can expect to feel a little mighty with Mugler introducing capes into the fashion spectrum. These capes are cool and sophisticated and can be great on chilly Fall days. The cape certainly isn’t for everyone and should always be dressed up. Nice slacks and a great button up really compliment this look. Now we can all be vigilantes together.

#gottajet

This spring get ready to see the color orange. This bright and cheerful color is perfect for the warmer months and to help get us get out of the dreariness of winter. If you want to go for a bold look, I suggest going monochromatic with head to toe orange. For a subtler look, go with one orange piece and pair it with a neutral top or bottom. The photo at the top is a version of the trend by Alexander McQueen.

Donna Karen

Acne

Alice + Olivia

Acne

Twenty8Twelve

Photos are from Style.com

Posted by Dinell Williams

It’s cold, very cold. And here in Chicago, we need to make sure that we stay warm and look cute. With winter formals just around the corner, let’s take a look at some cute and affordable outfits any girl can pull off.

The Little Black Dress. This is a given. But, try to find a dress with a little extra sparkle, like this one from the Gap. Consider pairing whatever you wear with tights and closed toe shoes.

Brightly Colored Dresses. While there is nothing wrong with wearing a black dress to winter formal, a little color doesn’t hurt either. Try a royal blue for a look that is perfect for evening. 

What will you be wearing to winter formal?

The runways have been pointing in a cinched direction for the seasons to come so now it’s time to decide when and how much to cinch up. Take Alexander McQueen’s prefall 2012 collection. Every look is cinched in at the waist with either a sleek simple bet, or a wide corseted belt. The great thing about this collection is that it shows that belts aren’t necessarily meant to be worn around the waste or covered up. Belts can be worn over the right menswear inspired suit, like shown below, or even with a drastic gown. Which ever you choose, make sure to leave room to breathe.

#watchthebelt