Well, ’tis a bittersweet moment, as I wrap up our Oscar mini-series, okay…maybe more like major-series.  But, as I have previously suggested, the Oscars is the (semi)-serious fashion event if ever there were one.  Although I don’t take fashion super seriously, I do like to take in the trends, and like I said, the Oscars is arguably the most influential event of the year when it comes to trend-spotting.  Thus, the tireless dedication to studying said trends, and making them a part of our everyday fashion repertoire, has been informative, I hope, but fun I desire even more. 

The fifth and final trend for your reflection is statement jewelry.  The pieces we are speaking of are big, bold, and of course, beautiful.  With just one bauble or beaded band, you can speak volumes, minus the small talk.  Just leave it to the personality of your fierce accessory to get your point across.  After all, some things just go without saying.  I think you’ll see what I mean when you consider some of the examples I have gathered for you.  But first, let’s take a quick skip down memory lane, and catch a glimpse of why the Oscars was the venue for this trend to showcase itself.

                 Amy Adams in Fred Leighton                                  Taraji P. Henson in Fred Leighton

             Angelina Jolie in Lorraine Schwartz                                     Alicia Keys in Fred Leighton

The jewelry adorning these ladies is so amazing, it ceases to be an accessory, but becomes the main event.  With a commodity so striking, it’s an impossibility not to be noticed.  You can barely even forget that you have it on, it’s so much in the foreground.  The only trick to this look: don’t wear multiple statement pieces at one time.  If you wear the collar necklace like Amy Adams, you don’t want to pair it with large, drop earrings like Angelina’s.  The two pieces will compete, and end up looking more gaudy than great.  Not to mention, if you start stacking pieces up, you will run the risk of looking cheap, the jewelry fake.  Less is more when bigger is better.

Case in point:

This is not exactly the look you’re going for, right??  Then please heed my previous advice.           Here, instead, are some seriously tempting statement pieces-absolute eye candy, in fact…

Forever 21 Jewel Cluster Ring  No lie…This amazing bauble is merely $5.80!  It almost feels like a sin, but it’s sinfully divine!  The colors are beautiful for spring, against a rich gold backdrop, it looks like a million bucks, and you can keep a secret!  Wear this with all the new spring floral prints, and to dress up an otherwise plain jane ensemble.  Trust me, this can get the job done!

Forever 21 Rainbow Rectangle Bracelet $9.80. This amazing rainbow stretch bracelet is proof that color is power!  Imagine the possibilities: from basic black to bright, bold, colorful patterns, this bracelet turns the energy way up.  Probably a little bit flashy for daytime, and certainly for the office, it is perfect for evening and special events.  Save it for a rainy day, as it is sure to perk up not only you, but everyone around you!

Ross Simons Black Onyx Ring $75.00.  This incredible black onyx ring was originally $175, what a steal!  Again, the piece is definitely a head-turner, but it isn’t over the top.  Although dressy, it’s not pretentious, and it would make any basic black number unforgettable, in a very understated way.

Forever 21 Jeweled Flower Headband $11.80. Although it’s not jewelry in the traditional sense, it is hair jewelry, and your strands deserve a little accessorizing too.  This headband is truly unforgettable when paired with a frilly black frock.  It has all the dramatic display needed to turn a basic into a beauty.  No other jewelry is even necessary to compete with the singular statement of this piece.  It’s a stand-alone sensation!

Forever 21 Medeival Chain Necklace For just $12.80, this Medieval Chain Necklace can be a priceless piece of your jewelry collection.  Imagine how gorgeous this would be draped around your long neck, with your favorite “LBD” (little black dress).  You may have worn that dress countless times, but with this stunning vintage inspired necklace, you will look and feel like brand new! 

Forever 21Hinged Bracelet  Whoever said cheap can’t be chic?  This lovely bangle is practically to die for.  But don’t jump off that cliff just yet, it’s highly obtainable at only $4.80!  YES!!!  It’s true!  This is a very adaptable bracelet.  It is easily dressed up or down, but is consistently gorgeous!

Ross Simons 14kt Polished Yellow Gold Necklace $1,295.  Speaking of gold, this would be as close as it comes to the “gold standard”.  Although pricey, it is marked down slashed from $3,350, so consider it a bargain.  In all seriousness, though, this is an investment piece.  It will always look chic, always stand out in a crowd, and always transform anything drab into something full-on fabulous.  It is a no-brain-er, pull out-all-the-stops accessory that will carry you through fashion funks like a familiar friend.  If you invest in one really nice piece this spring, make it this one; it is extravagant, but you’ll wear it forever, and get your money’s worth each time!

Forever 21 Croc Back Rhinestone Earrings $7.80. Bring on the bling, with sparkling rhinestones and a crocodile embossed background.  These dazzlers are sure to make their mark, day or night.  They are just short of overdoing it for daytime, so be careful of your outfit, and your outing.  Office-no, brunch and shopping-yes.  Jeans-no, capris and a button down blouse-yes.  See?  It’s so easy to say so much!

www.forever21.com $8.80. Not all statement makers have to sparkle.  For example, this Peacock Plate Necklace is memorabe for its bold color and pattern, as well as unique shape and material.  This would look stunning with jeans or a suit.  Its versatility is as note-worthy as its charm.

Erickson Beamon for Target Jeweled Pink Bracelet $39.99.  I love love love this blinged out bracelet from high-end jewelry designer, Erickson Beamon.  He has created the most amazing spring line for Target at a mere fraction of his typical prices.  You know what that means: you and I can afford designer jewelry!  I love the fact that Target brings in these incredible, in-demand style-makers who offer collections of items, (jewelry, purses, shoes, clothing, etc.), affordable for the every-day woman.  Check Target out often to see what new offering they have of designer duds.  Now that’s smart shoppin’!

Erickson Beamon for Target Square Cut Blue Earrings $14.99. So, apparently size matters…at least in this case.  These are quite outstanding based on their sheer size.  At 1.5″x.5″, these earrings definitely leave an impression, (think Angelina at the Oscars.)  The color is captivating as well, like the ocean, these beauties are serene, yet powerful all at once. 

www.ross-simons.com $7.95.  I couldn’t resist including a little something for Fluffy.  Now yours will be one decked out pup.  What better way to make a fashion statement?!  Paris Hilton doesn’t have to be the only one to carry around a cute canine accessory.  But buyer beware: could lead to acute spoilage and NEEDS: Narcissistic Egotistical Evil Doggy Syndrome-adorn at your own risk.  (Just kidding!  Fluffy knows she’s fabulous already!)

And so we bid adieu to the loudest quietest of friends-statement jewelry.  Hopefully, you were able to find your voice through jewelry expression by acquainting yourself with the best of the baubles.  I feel confident that you do plenty of talking, let your accessories do the work for a change.

We likewise close a chapter, (or five), on the Oscar trends which were well worth our time and scrutinization.  Next time you think, “I’ve got nothing to wear”, think again.  If you learned anything from this series, you must know by now, that trendiness is not about spending a lot of money, or keeping up.  It is about you-your personality, your flair, and most definitely, it is about fun!

Because fashion should be fun, not fundamental!

Katie

It’s finally here~time to talk about one of the hottest color trends of the season, RED.  Usually red is reserved for fall and winter, but this spring is about rich and revved-up glamour.  Red is the perfect color to stand out and express sex appeal aplenty.  Although red undoubtedly does rule, red also has rules.  Like a fine box of chocolates, there are some ways in which you pursue the pleasure so as not to spoil it. 

For instance, you need the right complements.  When enjoying an indulgence as rich as chocolate, you simply must sip milk with it, or my favorite, Dr. Pepper.  Without something to wash it down, it can end up overpowering at best, or unpalatable at worst.  Furthermore, you must select the right kind of chocolate for your particular taste.  This may mean you need to sample several pieces before settling on the one that makes your taste buds swoon, but it’s well worth the effort.  Nothing tastes better than a perfectly picked piece of cocoa infused, serotonin-boosting confection that can enhance your mood altogether.  Much like red, chocolate is best enjoyed with some attention to detail.  Yet they both posses such power, that they are worth the pursuit of perfection in order to enjoy them to their fullest potential.

As I normally do, I would like to remind you of our Oscar ideals from which we are still receiving trend-spiration.  Here are some of the reds we admired:

                          Rule Makers:

  Amy Adams in Carolina Herrera       Heidi Klum in Roland Mouret      Amanda Seyfried in Valentino  

                           Rule Breakers:

                               Phoebe Cates in Sorelle Frienze                 Unknown designer

Rule #1. Red Heads CAN (and should) wear red!  Amy Adams takes a bold chance, and the result is on fire!  Many a law abiding citizen believes that redheads should not wear red.  Well, as Amy shows here, that is a belief nearing traitorous proportions!  As long as the makeup is neutral, and has an undertone similar to the red ensemble, (may it be blue or yellow), then red heads from strawberry blondes to deep cherry auburns, can carry it off with ease.

Rule #2. Coordinate your accessories.  Red is a hard one to pull off head to toe.  Because it is so bright and rich, you often benefit from accessorizing with another color or two so as not to overwhelm the eye.  However, if you are so brazen, do make sure that you match perfectly.  Heidi’s look is an excellent example; her heels and clutch are not only a spot-on match in color, but in material as well.  Meanwhile, Phoebe Cates’ ensemble is suffering from, among other things, a purse that is a different shade of red, as well as shiny, not a compliment to the dress at all.  Further proof that red on red action is a treacherous attempt: Mickey Rooney’s guest.  This outfit is obviously problematic, and I am not insulting your intelligence by mentioning it.  I just want you to see how badly colors and materials clash when red is involved.  I do give her a few points for matching her man’s handkerchief, though.

Rule #3. Choose the right red.  While I am a believer that a woman can wear practically any color she wants regardless of complexion, hair color, etc., I do think that some colors just look better than others from one person to the next.  Although your husband would beg to differ, as with other colors, there are many shades of red.  If you tend to wear colors like blue and purple, along with silver jewelry, you would most likely look best in a red with blue undertones, like Amy Adams’.  If you steer toward browns, orange, and gold jewelry, then you should opt for a yellow undertone, like the brick red that Amanda Seyfried is donning.  That is a very basic guideline, and you can definitely learn much more about how to choose the ‘rightest’ red at:

http://www.ehow.com/how_3249_choose-colors-flatter.html and

http://www.ehow.com/how_2240449_complexion-season.html.

Rule #4. Make sure it fits.  If you are going so far as to wear such a stand out color as red, then you are obviously in a ‘notice me’ mood.  Don’t spoil the effect by wearing a garment that is ill-fitting or even frumpy.  Phoebe’s dress is a not so pleasant reminder that fit is first and foremost.  Her dress is so big, it’s falling off of her, and would better suit someone twice her age.  This look is not doing her any favors.  She is a gorgeous woman whose beauty is smothered by the shapelessness of this dress.  On the other hand, too small can be just as unseemly.  Don’t pull the all too familiar “I’ll lose 10 pounds” bit.  Word of advice: That NEVER happens!!!  If you have to pour yourself into your prospective red piece, you will end up looking like, well, something other than a lady.

Rule #5. Go forth with confidence!  The only way to wear red is with your head held high, your smile from ear to ear, and your gait strong and even.  You know, like you own the place!  No one wearing red should feel like a wallflower.  You are a force to be reckoned with on any given day, but on a red day, you are upping the ante even more.  So do take the opportunity seriously gorgeous girl, and paint the town RED!!

Because fashion should be fun, not fundamental!

Katie

You may be wondering, “Why is this girl so obsessed with the Oscars?”  I have been relentless in my pursuit of perfecting the Oscar fashion trends, and this is why:  What other event is the culmination of ridiculously talented designers fused with the most influential trend setters (celebrities) on the planet?  The Oscars comes at the time of year when spring collections are kicking off, and the styles that are seen on the red carpet always have a way of popping up.  If you take your cues from this venue, you are way ahead of the fashion curve!  That is why I am devoting some quality time to our friendship with Mr. Oscar, knowing that you and I will undoubtedly reap the benefits in spades of style.  That said, let me proceed as planned, with the next trend from my original post, “Top Trends from the Oscar Red Carpet,” Texture.  I narrowed it down in my original post simply to “pleating and ruching”, but I have expanded this piece to include all textures.  This is a tantalizingly tactile trend to those of us who have super senses.  When an item looks scrumptious to the eye, it makes you want to reach out and touch it, making it far more goose bump-worthy than than an ordinary dress or top.  As a refresher, here are some examples we saw at the Oscars:

    Marisa Tomei in Versace              Alicia Keys in Armani Prive          Diane Lane in Dolce & Gabbanna

 Vanessa Hudgens in Marchesa     Taraji P. Henson in Roberto Cavalli           Mary Hart in Mon Atelier

And truly, there were even MORE!  Now that you are dying to rub your face about Vanessa Hudgens’ bosom, (but not in a weird way…), you can see that the idea of texture is all in the details.  Marisa Tomei’s Versace is pleated to perfection, looking  like an intricate and precise origami project, while Mary Hart’s is crinkled and wrinkled haphazardly for an uncontrolled and unexpected air of easy glamour.  No two textured pieces are identical, so they all look original and unique.  Let me introduce you to some pieces that you will love as dearly as the dresses above, but your pocketbook will appreciate them all the more.

Banana Republic Silk Georgette Dress $150.00  This gorgeous dress is not only beautifully ruched at the bust and waist, it is made of the most beautiful, finely crinkled silk Georgette.  If you take a look at the site, you can zoom in on the fabric and see for yourself.  Not to mention, the bright, sunny yellow is a color must for spring.

Piperlime Wanted ‘Drape’ Pump $50.00  The quintessential neutral pump to get you through spring.  This is a ‘go-to’ staple that will look great with many items already in your wardrobe.  The neutral shoe is huge this season, and the ruched detail here is what makes it so interesting yet understated.

 Pink Ice Puff Floral Purse $49.99  This puffy purse is obviously a funkier choice, but an excellent way to perk up any casual weekend outfit.  The bright blue and scrunched up texture are unexpectedly chic, and fiercely fun!

Victoria’s Secret Pleated Silk Blouse $48.00  Ladylike and demure, the pleating on this blouse is ultra feminine, and in a word, ‘pretty’.  Don’t we all love pretty?  The soft fabric with the barely bright color just works on everyone.  A modern take on a classic, this blouse’s possibilities are endless.

   J. Crew Ripple-Ruffle Tee $39.50  This tee is so simple and easy, yet the cute factor is significantly amped by the textured neckline.  Such a small detail adds so much.  It suddenly becomes so much more than a gray tee shirt; it’s a statement piece.  Dress it up, dress it down, dress to impress.

Heavenly Couture Sheer Ruffled Blouse $17.95  An absolute steal, the ruffles make this stunning blouse sexy and soft at once.  Can’t you just see them bustling about in the spring breeze?  Gorgeous!

Surely these items are immediate motivation to get texturized!  Thankfully, this season we are seeing this trend everywhere, from the catwalk to the sidewalk, and you simply must take advantage of the opportunity to draw all eyes, and perhaps hands, to you.

Because fashion should be fun, not fundamental!

Katie

The Oscars is arguably the most glamorous event of the year, and thus, the most important place for trend-spotting.  Who really cares who wins, right?  It’s all about what they’re wearing!  I have to say, this year we saw some truly beautiful dresses, and yes, some awesome trends for your consideration.  The top 5 trends I noticed and loved are totally do-able, and can be incorporated into anyone’s daily wardrobe.  You can even find cheap-chic variations of the actual gowns at some retailers online.  (I will have more information on those in a future post, so stay tuned. )  But until then, here are the trendy top 5:

Top Trend #5: One-Shouldered, Asymmetrical Necklines.  This is a flattering look for most anyone.  It’s great for spring because you can show off your gorgeous shoulders and toned arms.  Or if you’re like me, and you don’t love your bottom half, this draws attention upward, and balances out bigger hips and thighs.  Expect to see this trend even in casual wear like cotton tops and sundresses, not just evening gowns.  That means affordability and functionality!!

Kate Winslet in Yves Saint Laurent      Frieda Pinto in John Galliano         Queen Latifah in Georges Chakra

Top Trend #4: Red Hot!  Fashionistas typically steer clear of this hue at the awards show because they don’t want to compete with the red carpet, but because red is so “ in” right now, that rule of thumb simply did not apply.  There are many different shades of red, so there’s one that works for any skin tone.  No one should shy away from the color’s statement making appeal.  Even redheads look beautiful in it, as you can see here on Amy Adams, even though it’s been said in the past that they don’t.  So be bold this season and work red into your spring wardrobe.  It’s an attention-getter for sure, and you’ll be glad you did!

  Amy Adams in Carolina Herrera         Heidi Klum in Roland Mouret           Virginia Madsen in Kevan Hall

Top Trend #3: Bows, Bows, Bows.  I love this one!!!  Bows are everywhere this season, and they are fun, flirty, and oh so feminine.  You can work a bow in your hair, on your shoes, and even on your lingerie.  Wherever you choose, it adds that special touch that speaks volumes without saying a word.  If you don’t own anything with bows, and don’t want to spend the cash on a trendy item that might not make it past fall, I bet you have items in your wardrobe already that will work.  Try a pretty, flowy scarf around your waist and tie it in a fluffy bow.  Have some ribbon laying around?  Tie it in your hair like a headband, finished off with a bow to the side.  There are many ways to enjoy this trend right now!

Amanda Seyfried in Valentino          Miley Cyrus in Zuhair Murad         Jessica Biel in Prada’s “half bow” dress

Top Trend #2: Bold Statement Jewelry.  Now is the time to think “gaudy”!  No, really…one piece of super-dramatic jewelry is all it takes to set an outfit off!  Gold or silver, gemstones or diamonds, colorful or monochromatic, all it takes to feel super trendy and glamourous at once, is a larger than life piece of jewelry.  Now, since we can’t all afford those amazing baubles the stars wear, we’re obviously talking costume jewelry here, but they’re dazzling nonetheless.  Whether it be a dangling pair of earrings, a cuff bracelet, or a collar necklace, you must remember, the bigger the better!    

Adams in Fred Leighton necklace     Jolie in Lorraine Schwartz jewels         Henson in Fred Leighton jewels

Top Trend #1:  Pleating & Ruching.   There were plenty of your simple, run of the mill gowns, and they were lovely in their own right, but the real show stoppers were those dresses that looked hand-sewn with breathtaking, painstaking attention to detail.  The real beauty of this look is in the fabric; gathered tulle, silk organza, shiny satin, and sheer chiffon , all wonderfully handcrafted, making each dress something special.  Look for this trend to pop up in dresses and tops everywhere, now that it has had its date with Oscar.

   Marisa Tomei in Versace                 Alicia Keys in Armani Prive            Diane Lane in Dolce & Gabbanna

Now that you know my favorites, I would love to hear from you what yours are.  What did you love, and what did you hate at the Oscars this year?  Your comments would be much appreciated on this, my very first post!  AND please check back in the Fridays that follow, as I will be filling you in on how to get the gorgeous Oscar dresses seen here for a fraction of the cost.  We will also take a closer look at each of these hot trends and how to incorporate them into your wardrobe today-for less! 

Because fashion should be fun, not fundamental!

Katie