White Hot

The arrival of Memorial Day signals the beginning of summer, and also the return of white clothing. I must be honest, I don't believe in fashion rules and especially not the rule that does not permit wearing white between Labor Day and Memorial Day. This rule still echoes through my mind in my grandmother's voice. My philosophy is wear what you want, when you want!

Natorious Twill Wide Leg Pant, $99 from Rue Lala

No matter if you are a white rule follower or breaker, white is the color of the season. White pants are a must have this summer. I have met numerous people that are scared of white pants. White pants are nothing to be scared of; just like all other pants, find the right pair with the right fit. You may need to do a lot of shopping and trying on before you find the perfect pair.

Marc New York Dress with Rope Belt, $59 from ideeli

White jeans do look young to me. However, a pair of tailored white pants can be a showstopper. My favorite pair is slim in the waist and hip area, gradually flare out and are wide legged. I like to wear solid colorful tops, but also pattered tops. I like patterned tops because the white pants are a strong statement, and a solid top can look too color blocked for my personal taste. But, there is nothing wrong with that look if you like it!

Ruri Cotton Jersey Belted Dress, $69 from Gilt

Besides white pants, white dresses are a great addition to any wardrobe. White dresses are light, flirty and carefree. White, nude or colored sandals go perfectly with this look.

When wearing white, you can really go bold with your jewelry, accessories and makeup. Turquoise jewelry, a red bag and red lips with a white dress will make you an instant knockout. Don't be afraid to go bolder than you normally would. White can wash some people out, so bringing in color will liven up your complexion. If bright white is too harsh for you, find a slight off white.

Textured Shorts, $39.50 from Martin + Osa

White is a color everyone can wear and should be trying this summer. Don't get discouraged if your first few picks don't work, keep trying! Also, a tip for white wearers: Victoria's Secret's Second Skin Satin bras and panties in sand will keep you covered and smooth.

Follow me on Twitter.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from Rue Lala, Gilt, Martin + Osa

Ungaro Back on Track

Since Emanuel Ungaro retired in 2004, the fashion house has been struggling with finding a designer. After Ungaro's departure, designers came and went with the seasons. Esteban Cortazar held the job from 2007-2009- the longest a designer lasted during this tumultuous time.

After showing exciting and contemporary looks that seemed to get Ungaro back on track, Lindsay Lohan was hired as artistic director. Cortazar had the forethought to refuse to work with Lohan. Unfortunately, he was the one let go, not her.

Ungaro then hired Estrella Archs to design for the label. Archs and Lohan sent the infamous collection down the runway that included nipple tassels. The collection was the punch line to many fashion jokes. Lohan left Ungaro unceremoniously and chose to focus on her legging and spray tan lines.

Giles Deacon

Archs has finally been dismissed and Giles Deacon has been brought in to head the struggling fashion house. Deacon will continue designing for his line, Deacon. Fashionistas are excited and hope Deacon can bring Ungaro back to its former glory.

Look for a Deacon designed Ungaro collection in Paris for Spring/Summer fashion week in October.

Follow me on Twitter.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photo from Getty Images/Puglia

Lovely Metallics

Metallic and lamé are no longer bad words. Forget gaudy mother-of-the bride dresses and your grandmother's Christmas best, metallic and lamé have been updated and are chic.

Yoana Baraschi Metal Goddess, $119 from Rue Lala

Free People Indian Princess Top, $62 from Blue Fly

Metallic is a sure trend for this fall and winter; it was seen all over the runways in fall/winter collections presented months ago. But, there are some summery pieces you can start to mix into your current wardrobe and wear them into the fall with layers.

K Karl Lagerfeld Metallic Effect Jeans, $85.75 from theOutNet.com

When you begin to search for the right metallic, look for pieces that are actually metallic, not just shiny. Shiny material does look cheap and old fashioned. Metallic thread and fabric is not overly loud and actually quite wearable- even in the day!

Paul & Joe Miette Smock Top, $197.50 from theOutNet.com

Metallic pieces should be a simple silhouette to keep from looking to busy and over the top. Don't wear metallic from head to toe; one metallic piece is enough to make a statement. If you are dying to wear a metallic top and metallic shoes, keep your pants subdued (black skinny pants, dark wash denim). Busy, large patterns can also be overwhelming and bring you into the realm of tapestry. Simplicity is the key.

Rupert Sanderson Limonia Metallic Slingbacks, $238 from theOutNet.com

Tooshie Sardaigne Metallic Bikini, $227.50 from theOutNet.com

Metallics aren't just for Christmas tinsel and shiny track suits anymore. Find your perfect metallic and you will be spot on through winter.

Follow me on Twitter.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from Blue Fly, theOutNet.com, Rue Lala

Tribal Belts

Tribal prints are in this spring and summer. If you aren't feeling bold enough to wear a tribal printed dress, top or tunic, you can go low-key with a Motif 56 belt. These funky belts give you a colorful tribal feel and are versatile. Add something special to an all black look, update old looks, wear it with shorts, pants, dresses or jumpers- creativity is key!

Find Motif 56 belts on Blue Fly for $83.00-104.00; today Blue Fly is offering an additional 1o% off, so you get an even better deal ($71.00-89.99).

Tribal belts are a great way to stay on trend, without spending a lot of money. You can wear your tribal belt over and over again this summer; try it with casual looks (beach, concert, bbq) or wear it with dressier outfits (dates, art galleries).

Motif 56 "16" Belt, $99.00 from Blue Fly

A great casual look would be to pair William Rast's Scarlet shorts with a Flexus v-neck tee-shirt, wear your Motif 56 "16" belt and Jeffery Campbell Baile sandals in orange and you have a super stylish, comfortable look. Throw on some Kenneth Jay Lane gold hoop earrings, an AV Max agate necklace, and grab a Sondra Roberts Reese bag to complete your outfit.

A shirt dress, like this Wyatt shirt dress, works perfectly with a tribal belt. Any of Motif 56's belts would compliment a shirt dress and take it to the next level. The same goes for plain tunics, sun dresses, maxi dresses, and the like.

Motif 56 "1" Belt, $99.00 from Blue Fly

If you want to dress up your tribal belt, look for simple dresses in luxe fabrics. This Marc New York dress is sateen; the rope belt can be replaced with a tribal belt. Add some chunky, high heeled sandals, like this pair of BGBGeneration snake print sandals, and a fringed Moserat de Lucca red bag to tie all the elements together.

Time to go wild and try tribal prints!

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from Blue Fly

New Trend: Oxford Shoes

I remember wearing black and white Oxford shoes as a little girl. They were my favorite shoes and I eventually got a second pink and white pair. I loved the idea of the 50's girl wearing a poodle skirt and Oxfords, dancing at the jukebox and hanging out with the football players.

Miss Sixty Marlene Oxfords, $140 from Piper Lime

Well, Oxfords are back and updated for 2010. The modern Oxford is metallic, suede, adorned with tassels or a bow for the in-the-know trendsetters. Pair the shoes with brightly colored ankle socks and a skirt or leggings and a skirt or tunic. The more delicate Oxfords can be worn bare legged or with jeans.

See by Chloe, $245 at Net-a-Porter

Be careful to keep the shoe feminine and not too clunky or old fashioned. You don't want to look like you should be wearing a poodle skirt or like a grandpa that wears them with white knee high socks and shorts- you know what I mean!

Moschino Cheap & Chic Henry Oxfords, $300 from Piper Lime

I know this is a difficult trend to get behind and is hard to pull off, but give it a try! Wearing these throw back shoes in a modern way can be fun. Try wearing a simple, monochromatic outfit with suspenders or a straw fedora and your Oxfords. Have fun with accessories and be little tongue-in-cheek with this trend.

Bronx Heather Bee Oxfords, $119 from Piper Lime

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from Net-a-Porter and Piper Lime

Another Store Closing

Martin & Osa, a store under the American Eagle Outfitters Brands, is closing soon. I received an email today advertising an extra 30% everything online (no coupon code needed, 30% taken off in basket); at the bottom I saw that all sales were final. Usually final sales are reserved for clearance items, but this referred to everything and the reason was the closing of the brand.

Martin & Osa Silk A Line Tank, $69.50

While my closet isn't filled with Martin & Osa clothing, there are some great, quality items in there. I have several cashmere sweaters, silk tops and pants that I enjoy wearing (and I got for a steal on sale!). The brand is for women and men that have outgrown American Outfitters, but like younger and more playful styles than Banana Republic.

Martin & Osa Foil Racerback Tank, $24.50

Their summer tanks, tops and shorts are casual and perfect for weekends hanging out. Plus, there are some great summer bags, belts and lightweight scarves.

Martin & Osa Printed Snake Tote, $79.95

If you have a Martin & Osa in your mall, go there to find more sizes and colors. Also, check back often to see when the big price cuts start; 30% off isn't too much of a discount for a store closing. You are likely to find some steals in the coming month or so. The online is also likely to mark items down more in the upcoming weeks.

Martin & Osa Men's Ombre Sweater, $39.50

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from Martin & Osa

No Time to Wash & Style Hair? No Problem!

Running late? Trying not to wash your hair as often? Just plain old lazy? I know I fit into these categories every once in a while. Some people can go every other day or more without washing and styling their hair, but I'm not one of them. As a person with wavy and frizzy hair, I need to wash and style it daily to get it my preferred style- stick straight. But, all that washing, products and heat styling isn't good either.

Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Shampoo, $10 from Ulta

The solution that I found is dry shampoo. I use Oscar Blandi's Pronto dry shampoo; it is the consistency of baby powder and smells fresh and lemony. Just section your hair and use the pointed applicator to "squirt" the dry shampoo onto your scalp. Then, massage the dry shampoo all over your head with your finger tips and finish by brushing your hair. I can then flat iron any pieces in need of it. My hair then looks fresh and isn't oily or flat.

Oscar Blandi has another Pronto Dry Shampoo that is a foam from a spray can. While I have not personally tried this product, I have been told that the foam does not work as well as the powder. Plus, the power product lasts much longer than the foam product.

I like many of Blow's products and their dry shampoo seems to be just as popular as their other haircare items. However, at $20 a pop, I'd try to find a friend that already has Blow's Faux Dry Shampoo to borrow.

Frederic Fekkai Au Naturel Dry Shampoo, $23 from Ulta

For those that like all natural products, Frederic Fekkai offers Au Naturel Dry Shampoo. Again, it is more expensive than Oscar Blandi's products, at $23 per bottle. But, if all natural is your thing, you may find that it is worth the extra money.

Dry shampoo is a great option when you can't or don't want to wash and style your hair. Just be sure to massage the product thoroughly into your scalp to avoid any powder or foam streaks. If possible, try the smaller sized bottles so you can find the best brand for you without spending too much money.

Plus, right now you can get a travel bag full of samples for free when you spend $25 at Ulta online. Also, use coupon code 46537 for 20% off one item.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from Ulta

Summer Sandals

While I am not normally a fan of flats, this summer's sandals are interesting, embellished and much more than the normal flat. The sandals that we are seeing this summer can be worn with shorts, rompers and jumpers, dresses and even pants.

Antik Batik Squaw Sandals, $82.50 from The OutNet

The gladiator sandal is still in, but in a multitude of colors and with beads and stone embellishments for a feminine look that suits women of all ages. I love fancy footwear that makes a statement and get noticed. I found some great sandals, and a few chunky heeled sandals (I couldn't help it- I need some elevation!), that are perfect for summer.

Cole Haan Air Aster Sandal, $168

Summer is also vacation season and if you are going on vacation that requires a lot of walking, the Cole Haan Air line is what you need. The Air line is amazingly comfortable, well made and features many different styles. As I was hiking around London and Amsterdam, my feet were comfortably inside nice flats that were still fashionable.

Rush of Gold Sandals, $128 from Anthropologie

So, summer sandals aren't just the old, boring flip flop anymore. Embellished, colorful, gladiator sandals are here and go with everything in your closet. To cover all your bases, get a pair of black, brown and funky colored sandals. Don't worry about getting shoes just for this season; you can wear them over the winter on beach vacations/cruises and then again next spring and summer.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from The OutNet, Cole Haan, Anthropologie

Cruising With Chanel

Chanel showed its cruise collection in St. Tropez recently. Just a day before Cannes Film Festival begins, the show was littered with celebrities such as Diane Kruger, Joshua Jackson, Vanessa Paradis and Georgia May Jagger modeled.

Of course there was Chanel's standard black and white, but pastels were also shown. Black netted coverups and black and white gingham bathing suits contrasted nicely with the pastel pinks, greens, yellows and tans of longer coverups and resort wear.

Tousled hair, bronzy gold makeup and layers of ruffles on sleeves and near the ankles brought up images of a 70's beach party. Striped, long, knit dresses look comfortable, yet put together; perfect for dinner on the patio with the warm ocean breeze blowing through your hair. Add a flower clip or headband to complete the look.

A gorgeous black beaded halter gown is sure to be a show stopper for any dinner party. The companion is a cream colored one piece swimsuit with gold beading and chains around the neck and a small gold belt. Pick up these two pieces and you are ready for a posh cruise.

Jumpers and rompers are still being shown. Chanel showed a yellow-gold sleeveless jumper that is dressy enough for night. For something more casual, choose the pale pink romper.

Sheer button down tops in yellow, magenta and icy blue were paired with matching pants for a monochromatic look. Slip a cami underneath and you can easily wear this look out and about when you are back from vacation. There were other semi-suiting monochromatic outfits, some were paired with belts, others had ruffles around the neck. Many of the dresses can be worn right off the runway today for day to evening wear.

Men in barefoot and in flip flops with a bit of a five o'clock shadow wore baggier jeans (compared to the popular skinny jeans) and loose long sleeved tops. These guys look like they just had a soul searching walk down the beach.

This collection is flirty and girly, but still sophisticated. Everyone is sure to find at least one piece that they need to pack into their cruise luggage. Visit Women's Wear Daily to see the whole collection.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from AP and Women's Wear Daily

Top Off Your Look

We know that sunscreen is an essential element to protect your skin from wrinkles, sun spots, burning, premature aging and even cancer. To up your protection, but still remain the fashionista that you are, find a great hat.

My mom is very health conscious and has been shielding her face from the sun for years, but with a non-so-stylish visor. There are an abundance of wide brimmed hats that are stylish and affordable that you can wear any place from the beach to a golf tournament. Be sure to try on the hat so you can check its sun shielding ability. The brim needs to be wide enough to shade your face, especially your nose that is one of the first places to burn.

Target is carrying Eugenia Kim hats for a limited time, starting at $14.99. While gorgeous, her hats regularly start at $145. Target has a variety of Eugenia Kim hats ranging from straw fedoras to adorable equestrian style hats. For style and sun protection, I like the rouched sunhat and the straw cloche.

Eugenia Kim for Target Rouched Sunhat, $15.99

Add a pop of color with Juicy Couture's April wide brimmed straw hat with multicolored pompom tassels. The added color and fun tassels take this hat to another level.

Juicy Couture April Hat, $88 from Net-a-Porter

Urban Outfitters also has some fun hats that are both stylish and affordable. Plus, use coupon code SHIPHAPPENS for free shipping until May 17, 2010. My pick is a Pins and Needles crochet floppy hat; it comes in three colors: brown, tan and grey.

Pins and Needles Crochet Floppy Hat, $34 from Urban Outfitters

There are so many hats with sun protection to choose from! A variety of shapes, embellishments, colors and price points make a hat the perfect accessory this summer. Don't forget your sunscreen though!

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from Target, Net-a-Porter, Urban Outfitters

Haircare: Expensive Does Not Equal Better

Several weeks ago I went to Ulta to buy shampoo and conditioner. I know that you should look for sulfate-free products, especially if you have color treated hair. Sulfates are harsh and strip the color from your hair. Also, as people are becoming more aware of what products they are using, it is nice to see vegan products with natural botanicals and no added fragrance.

I headed to the "salon" haircare section, which includes brands like Oscar Blandi, Joico, Redken, Ken Paves, Biolage and more. After carefully reading ingredients, comparing products and pick up and then putting back several shampoos and conditioners I settled on a pair. As I was walking to the front of the store to check out I saw the "regular" haircare section. I am always looking for quality for less, so I stopped when I saw L'Oreal's EverPure line.

The metallic packaging caught my eye, but when I saw sulfate-free and 100% vegan, I put down my expensive selection to read more. I compared the two brands and even shopped the inexpensive section a little more. In the end, I decided on L'Oreal EverPure Smooth shampoo and conditioner. At $5.99 each, I couldn't resist!

The shampoo contains juniper and rosemary and the conditioner uses rosemary and mint for a great natural scent. The pair is sulfate and salt-free, 100% vegan and the conditioner has UVA and UVB filters.

If you don't need the frizz fighting power of the smooth shampoo and conditioner, try the EverPure Volume shampoo and conditioner. If you need more moisture, pick up the EverPure Moisture shampoo and conditioner. The EverPure line also includes hair masks, UV filter spray and leave in treatments.

L'Oreal also has the EverStrong line with similar attributes as the EverPure line. The EverStrong line features shampoo and conditioner for bodifying, reconstructing, hydrating results. Like the EverPure line, the EverStrong line is sulfate and salt-free as well as 100% vegan with natural botanicals, but it also includes L'Oreal's bio-ceramide complex to strengthen hair. Since the EverStrong line is not formulated especially for colored treated hair, the conditioner does not include the UVA/UVB filters.

So, save those hard earned dollars and try L'Oreal! If you order online from Ulta, use code 46537 to save 20% on one item. Shipping is free on orders of $50+ and you get three free samples with each order (I loved the Borba sample from a few months ago!). Also, be sure to check out the sales and special offer pages to get the most bang for you buck.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photo from Ulta

Swimwear

Most people dread shopping for swimwear. It doesn't have to be terrible task though. My favorite place to shop for bikinis and coverups is Victoria's Secret. They have a huge array of tops, bottoms, one piece swimsuits and coverups that are sure to flatter everyone.

Ruffle Triangle Top ($18) & Beach Sexy String Bottom ($11)

Whether you are looking for a skimpy bottom, a supportive top, or sequins, you can find it at Victoria's Secret. Besides all of the options for every body type, all the colors, the ability to mix and match, these swimsuits really last! I have suits that have seen years of salt water, chlorine and accidental machine washes that are still in perfect shape.

Magicsuit Firm Control Convertible One Piece ($158)

I like bright colors, sequins, embellishments, cutouts and anything that is eye catching. I always get compliments on my Victoria's Secret swimwear and no one can beat the fit and versatility- I have even been SCUBA diving in one of the more simple bikinis (didn't want to look like a fishing lure in sequins!).

Very Sexy Draped Halter Coverup ($29)

Don't be afraid to order online; returns are simple and with offer code SHIPVS10 get free shipping on orders of $100+. Plus, you can always go to your local Victoria's Secret store and try on different bra styles and then order your bikini top in the same size. Their bikini tops mirror their bras in style and name (BioFit, Very Sexy, etc). Now, go find your perfect suit and strut your stuff on the pool deck or beach with confidence!

P.S. Don't forget your Bikini Band to avoid tan lines!

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from Victoria's Secret

Summer Concerts

Finally, it is summer! That means pool time, BBQ's, patio drinks and outdoor concerts. Of course you still want to look good, but what should you wear to do that?

Concerts put you in hot weather for hours, and that's with a lot of people around you that are dancing and spilling drinks. What's a fashionista to do?

It is pretty easy this summer season with the popularity of tribal inspired pieces and rompers. Tribal inspired clothing lends itself to be worn casually outdoors. Rompers are a great choice for an outfit in one piece that can be casual or dressed up.

Even if you find the perfect outfit, don't forget appropriate shoes and accessories. Go for gladiator sandals or dressier flip flops for footwear, and long, layered necklaces and interesting earring for accessories. If your man is willing, get him to hold your ID and lipstick.

Chamak by Priva Kakkar, $29 from Blue Fly

Kelsi Daggar Catarina Sandals, $53.99 from Blue Fly

JB by Julie Brown Morgan Dress, $125 from Blue Fly

Tbags Dress, $89.99 from Blue Fly

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from Blue Fly

Jumpers, Rompers, Onesies

Whatever you call them, they are a quick outfit to throw on, yet look put together and chic at the same time. Like a dress, a jumper is a whole outfit in one piece. You don't have to think about selecting a top and then pants/skirt/shorts. All you need to do is pull out your jumper, pick some shoes (gladiator sandals, wedges, heels, boots even) and throw on a necklace or eye catching ring.

My newest favorite outfit is from the UK store Firetrap. The silk shorts jumper has cotton paneling, a tie at the waist, draped front and is backless. Even though they call it gray, it is more of a dusty forest green. I wore it to a backyard BBQ with cork peep toe heels; I can't wait to try it with chunky sandals soon! Unfortunately, Firetrap does not ship to the US yet.

Firetrap Tacita Jumper, £70

So, now that I am fully into shorts jumpers, I have found several more great ones that I need! Ok, want. But, really badly.

American Retro Jumper, $122 from the OutNet

Marc by Marc Jacobs Jumper, $155 from Blue Fly

When the fall comes around, keep wearing your shorts jumper, but add sheer black tights or sheer patterned black tights. Also, boots, booties and peep toe booties would look great. Keep your long jumpers around for winter- it doesn't look like they are going anywhere yet.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from Firetrap, OutNet and Blue Fly

Au Revoir, French Connection

You probably heard a month or so ago that French Connection is closing most of their US stores. Seventeen of their 23 US stores will be closing their doors. What does that mean for shoppers looking for a steal? Well, French Connection needs to get rid of all those clothes. In the past four weeks I have noticed Blue Fly carrying the label; also, sample sale sites have began to have French Connection sales.

Originally $88, On Blue Fly $61

On Blue Fly, you can find French Connection beginning at 30% off and up to 49% off. If you would like to add to your discount finds, play Blue Fly's Rock Your Closet contest daily. Simply open one of three drawers to discover your prize. While you can win $500, I have only gotten 10% off my next order of $100 and $30 off my next order of $150. But, it adds up since you can play daily!

Originally $188, On Blue Fly $132

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Fashion From Another Time

Fashionistas should look back in time to see where their clothing came from, see the workmanship and see how ideas are repeated and change through time. The perfect site to do this is Antique Dress.

1926/1927 Couture, Attributed to Lanvin

While the site might seem basic at first, it is updated regularly and showcases dresses that date back to the 1800's. The photos and descriptions included give you a vivid image of the garment and the type of person who wore it. The collection includes wedding gowns, formal gowns, "casual" dresses and accessories from all eras.

1895/1896 Dressing Gown

The first time I visited Antique Dress, I spend hours looking at every single item. The detail put into the dresses and hats is truly amazing. Plus, it is fun to imagine yourself wearing these fabulous dresses. But, take time to think about the conditions at the time these where worn, whether it be in the South with no air conditioning or just hanging out at home when we'd be in sweat pants and a t-shirt.

1893 Mantelette, Emile Pingat

Get lost in the world of Antique Dress, be inspired, take another look at your clothing and accessories, imagine current clothing being labeled as antique, mold the future of fashion.

1961 Cloche, Dachettes

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website