StyleBakery.com | Ask The Style Chefs

Chic Coat for Long Gown

February 26, 2008

Q. I’m wearing a gown for a ball next month and I don’t know what to wear over it for the cold weather. I was thinking a long cashmere or satin coat, or maybe a warm shrug, but I can’t find anything anywhere that would look good. Maybe you know where I can look for something?
-Cold Weather Cover

A. It’s difficult to find a long coat this time of year, but I found some fancy options that still work as a chic cover for a long dress and are appropriate even with your dress flowing out from beneath. And after scouring several sites, nordstrom.com had the most options at a more affordable price.

1. Tulle Funnel Neck Coat, $38.90 (sale) at nordstrom.com
2. MARC BY MARC JACOBS Gold Threaded Trench Coat, $262.90 (sale) at nordstrom.com
3. Andrew Marc ‘Mode’ Double Breasted Wool Cape, $158.90 (sale) at nordstrom.com
4. Michael Kors Double-Breasted Satin Trench Coat, $199 at macys.com

What to Wear with Gladiator Sandals

February 25, 2008

Q. I am crazy in love with Stylebakery.com! I just ordered these gladiator sandals by Nine West. Can you give me some outfit suggestions? -Standing Tall

Nine West Heech sandals, $92.95 at zappos.com

A. You want to be sure you don’t add anymore “weight” to your outfit so keep the pieces light. Wear trouser jeans to balance the wedge heel or skinny jeans cuffed or long to reveal the full sandal. As for skirts, an A-line or a pencil style that has a hem that hits around the knee will be most flattering. It’s a strong shoe that you can balance with softer pieces on top unless you kick it rocker chic and add a modern cut jacket.

1. Sleeveless sash tunic, $44.50 at gap.com
2. Kimchi & Blue Floral Cutout Top, $42 at urbanoutfitters.com
3. Striped boatneck T, $22.99 at gap.com

4. Lux Hi-Waisted A Line Skirt, $58 at urbanoutfitters.com
5. Lux Carousel Circle Skirt, $68 at urbanoutfitters.com
6. Cuffed denim capris, $29.95 at fashionbug.com
7. Theory Strani Pant, $225 at shopbop.com

60s Inspired Dress Search

February 22, 2008

Q. I’m getting married this summer and I want a ’60s inspired knee-length lace dress with sleeves that won’t break the bank.
-Lace in Place

A. Oooh, this is a little tough. I scoured online retailers and found this lacy dress, but you may find your best options by working directly with a wedding dress designer or getting help from a fabulous vintage store like The Way We Wore in Los Angeles. You can contact the owner Doris Raymond (323-937-0878) and fill her in on what you’re shopping for. She’s an incredible curator of vintage fashions.

ABS by Allen Schwartz Lace Minidress, $330 at nordstrom.com

Polished Look for Active Mom

February 21, 2008

Q. What are your suggestions for a stay at home mom (40) with 4 kids, 7 years old and under who works part time? I am looking for a polished casual look that suits my very active lifestyle (I walk everywhere).
-Walkin’ Workin’ mom

A. To move flawlessly from errands to playtime to work, you need footwear that is comfortable and ranges from cute kicks to flats and low heels with padded insoles. I’m a big fan of Cole Haan’s collection with Nike Air technology. For a look that can go from work to running after the kids, trouser jeans are a must have. Take a look at our Classics Rock style recipe for tips on choosing button down shirts, a sporty blazer and other key pieces that can be paired with jeans or pants. Additionally, you’ll need shirts and skirts with stretch, fitted cotton jersey tops, and jackets that can pull double duty for play and work.

Jackets that can work and play and clearly don’t define themselves by a stuffy office:

Semantiks Mandarin Collar Sharkskin Jacket

Norma Kamali Oversized Turtleneck Jacket

1. Semantiks Mandarin Collar Sharkskin Jacket , $138 at nordstrom.com
2. Stem Organic Cotton Jacket, $68 at nordstrom.com
3. Norma Kamali Oversized Turtleneck Jacket, $375 at nordstrom.com

Pair them with:

4. Slim stretch shirt, $59.50 at jcrew.com
5. Soft knit long-sleeve scoopneck tee, $38 at jcrew.com
6. TOMMY HILFIGER Montauk Paisley Shirt, $69.50 at macys.com
7. Diane von Furstenberg Gilligan Pant, $275 at shopbop.com
8. David Kahn Jeans Stretch Trouser Jeans, $168 at nordstrom.com
9. Cole Haan Fiona Mid Air Pump, $278.95 at zappos.com
10. Cole Haan Air Bria Woven Ballet, $178.95 at zappos.comzappos.com

Formal Wear For In Between Seasons

February 20, 2008

Q. I’m invited to a formal Saturday night affair at the end of March in New York. I’m stumped regarding what season to dress for. It will probably be too cold for summer fabrics and styles, but too late in the season (after Easter) for wintry velvets and taffetas. Please offer some help both for my 7-year-old daughter and myself!
-Stumped

A. While March is considered the beginning of Spring, in reality there could be a fluke snow storm. But when it comes to a formal affair, many of the rules of seasonal dressing don’t apply since many dressy looks don’t cover us from head to toe. Best scenario is to choose a dress that is cocktail length and wear with tights or sheer hosiery and a high heel that is closed toe, d’Orsay or peep toe. If you wear a full-length dress feel free to skip the hosiery and wear a heel of your choice. Think silk, jersey, and even taffeta still.

1. Silk taffeta Felice dress, $235 at jcrew.com
2. Maggy London Ruched Crinkle Chiffon Dress, $158 at nordstrom.com
3. Kay Unger Ruched Gown, $388 at nordstrom.com
4. Sophia long silk dress, $225 at jcrew.com

And for the little one:

5. Alexis silk faille dress, $168 at jcrew.com
6. Us Angels Tulle & Satin Dress, $98 at nordstrom.com

Chic Coat for Long Gown

What to Wear with Gladiator Sandals

60s Inspired Dress Search

Polished Look for Active Mom

Formal Wear For In Between Seasons

get the scoop

like us on facebook!

subscribe + win

Categories

Chic Coat for Long Gown

What to Wear with Gladiator Sandals

60s Inspired Dress Search

Polished Look for Active Mom

Formal Wear For In Between Seasons

get the scoop

like us on facebook!

subscribe + win

Archives

Categories