Black or White Tie…

2010.01.14

Le Smoking

It’s Award’s season and since Americans don’t have royalty, per se, Hollywood becomes our Royalty.  We subscribe to gossip mags, read blogs and watch Entertainment Tonight because we are obsessed with what the celebrities are wearing.  A gal pal of mine always makes me watch the Awards shows.  I don’t watch them for the Awards, I watch them for the pre-show fashion commentary… don’t tell her that though :)

So, if any of you are attending any black tie affairs, I have searched and put together some suggestions that will make your Red Carpet Appearance an absolute winner.

In 1966 a very intelligent man reshaped the face of Women’s Apparel.  Le Smoking, a tuxedo, was created by Yves Saint Laurent.  He empowered women by giving them the option of being able to “take seven minutes to get ready to go out.”  In the words of the master, himself, “For a woman, le smoking is an indispensable garment with which she finds herself continually in fashion, because it is about style, not fashion. Fashion’s come and go, but style is forever.”

For years, I have always thought a tuxedo was a perfect piece for any woman to have in her closet.  For many occasions, I have worn a tuxedo.  I am no stranger to getting dressed up, and for me nothing but my wedding gown, compares to a tuxedo.  I found a great jacket and it is on sale on Lane Bryant.  It is shown with a sequin tank.  I am thinking to wear it with a silk tank and then to throw on a sequin skirt with it.  I love to mix things up.  I would also get two pairs of pants.   Wide legged pants for when it is really chilly out and a pair of tapers if you are feeling really different.  Put on some spiked heels and you are good to go!

It’s no secret I love to wear black when I have an occasion, but lately, I am leaning toward purple.  I recently wore green to an event and definitely stood out, and not even in a bad way.  I found a beautiful one shoulder gown that reminds me of a Marchesa.  I wish I had an event to go to to wear this gown.  I adore it.  The lines of this dress are absolutely delightful.

A bustier dress is a lovely option.  Tadashi Shoji makes some amazing gowns and cocktail dresses.  Beaded lace is always a beautiful option, at least I think so, and the jacket makes a great cover up.  I like that it can make the dress look completely different and keep you warm at the same time.

Nordstrom brings another beautiful one shoulder dress from JS Boutique.  Nude under black mesh is so sexy.  It is a beautiful option for weddings or black tie events.  I would grab a great wrap, bag and shoes and go!

I will be wearing my tux for the Golden Globes this Sunday and let me know what you wear!

-xo

Fanny!

Whatchaya got in those pockets?

2010.01.11

Cargo PantsLadies, you are not the only ones that read this blog!  Some of the very fashionable (read: metro-sexual) gentlemen are taking part in asking questions.  I will, however post items for the ladies, and gents, if you really need some help, call my husband.  He is a disciple of mine, and doing quite well!

Ladies, I realize that some of you don’t like to wear jeans to be casual or sweats even.  A good option of course, is cargo pants.  I have been madly in love with cargo pants for years!  Some people refuse to wear them because “they make your hips look big.”  I beg to differ.  I think that if you have the correct size cargos and of course, perfectly placed pockets, then you are good to go!

One designer that I am currently in love with is XCVI.  The clothing is a bit pricey and, of course, I buy everything on sale.  But, their material is really really soft.  I am a big fan of their waist bands and their ruching.  I think their clothing is very flattering and comfortable.  Check them out.  They are sold at a bunch of places on the net and I think you can find a good deal!

If you are looking for a cropped cargo, check out Jag.  Zappos carries this line.  I think these are cute and good for cruise wear.  I am thinking of waiting till they go on sale some more and snag them for my Disney trip in April!

When in doubt, I hit Old Navy for some cargos.  They are comfortable and I can wear them to death for one season.  The prices are good and I can replace them the next season.  I will admit tho that I have a few pairs from years ago that I still wear and they are in really good shape!

Now, I am going to admit something here, that may make me look like a bit of a weirdo…but this summer my friend and I went to the NKOTB concerts (read: several).  Donnie Wahlberg, God Bless his soul, calls his fans ‘soldiers.’  Trying, of course, to get into the meet n greet, we were advised by DDUB himself, to dress like a soldier.  This is not a problem for me.  I have always and will always have a pair of fatigue cargos in my closet.

For my pregnant plus size ladies, I offer you these cargos from Motherhood.  They are adorable and I love pregnant women in cargo pants.  They are so absolutely fabulous.  I think pregnant women are super amazing anyway, I mean, hello, they are growing a human after all.  So, my friend Sally, who is growing twins, please put these super sweet and comfy pants and grow those babies!!!

Be Comfy!

-Fanny

Chunky Cardi… Not so much!

2010.01.07

Calvin Klein Cardi

So one of my faithful followers asked a burning question last night…How do we wear sweaters in this super chilly weather and not look bulky?

My darlings, I have the answer…at least I can tell you what works for me…layer (read: cashmere).  Because I am a buxom babe, I prefer to wear layers of thinner materials.  I hardly ever wear turtlenecks, because I have a large bust and it makes my bust look larger.  So, usually, it is a v  or u neck and sometimes I will change it up and wear a boatneck.  Generally, I will wear a tank top, a long sleeved shirt, then a sweater over it.  I always top it off with a scarf of some sort because my neck is *always* cold.

This gorgeous Calvin Klein boyfriend cardi is perfect for putting over a tank, tee and some leggings.  I can definitely agree with wearing this with black sweatpants or jeans.

I always hit Etsy up when I look for some beautiful hand made goodies.  I am lusting over this gorgeous Felted Wool Wrap Top.  I think investing in a piece like this for a staple is a good idea.  I am looking to decrease my closet and my collection and only invest in pieces that will go with everything.  I am definitely looking for quality and not quantity.  This winged cardigan is a work of art.  Please think about how beautiful a black version of this cardi would be with almost every outfit in your closet!  Maybe I will ask for it for Valentine’s Day!

Cashmere is always my go to when it is really cold and I do not want to add bulk.  I would always grab this cardi and go.  What a beautiful investment this is not to mention the matching pants!  Add some hot chocolate, a book and leave me at home for the weekend!

Gap is a go to when you want a cute, frilly, and ultra feminine cardigan.  This flowered number is on my wishlist for the Spring!  I love the choices of colors and the fact that it will be divine over a black outfit.  Can’t wait for it to go on sale!

Lane Bryant has a beautiful Tunic.  I would have added a long sleeved tee with this and of course some leggings.  Break out those slouchy knee high boots and you are good to go.

Don’t forget your scarf!

Stay sassy!

Fanny