Category: style

international · style

My Latest Fashion Obsession . . .

MstldelanoLeave a comment

While looking at a few items to spruce up my Spring & Summer 2018 wardrobe, I realized I have gotten stuck in a bit of a style rut. For years now, I’ve adored a pared down, minimalist look (just see my purchases in my Boohoo haul posts here and here). I preferred clean lines and little-to-no patterns: lots of monochromatic or simply striped pieces. That look is elegant and easy to wear, but I find myself getting . . . bored.

59a0e09ab721ef542e37a983693e611c--minimalist-wardrobe-minimalist-fashion

Not my closet but the lack of visual variety is very similar to my situation (from Pinterest)

So, it was time for something different. And, BOOM! Just like that, Joe Browns clothing popped into my Amazon recommendations. I found myself drawn to the whimsical, vintage-inspired designs. The quirky prints and bold color and fabric choices are a huge departure from my usual aesthetic, but somehow, I think adding a few of the pieces will suit my personal taste as well as add some visual interest to my wardrobe.

Screenshot 2018-02-27 at 10.59.41 PM - Edited

Here are a few of the pieces that I saw on Amazon that caught my eye:

The floral detailing is a far cry from anything that I normally would choose, but this is not only pretty, but looks like it could be worn either as a tunic or as a chic mini dress during those blazing summer days.

The asymmetric lapel is one of my favorite designs, and this boldly-colored nubby tweed is perfect for those cool spring days that aren’t chilly enough for winter coats but not warm enough for lightweight shawls.

This espresso and bronze pump has a vintage flavor and a heel that is high but not uncomfortably so.

This striking dress has an eye-catching blue, white and red print and a body-conscious fit. It has a tropical feel but without the kitsch.

I’ll order some of the pieces from previous seasons from Amazon, but for the latest Joe Browns fashions, I’ll go directly to the website here. Ooh, I can’t wait to post my pieces when I do a Joe Browns haul in the future!

hollywood glamour · style

Review: “I Love My Bag” Documentary

MstldelanoLeave a comment

Hi darlings! I’m wrapping up my international trip (I will allow one more day for someone to correctly guess my vacation location, then I’m closing the comment in my “Guess Where I’m Headed?” post). But, as usual, I found something fantastic during my time away, and I’m excited to share it with you.

th

A photo of the iconic Hermes Kelly bags, from BragMyBag.com

On the flight to my vacation, I got the chance to watch a documentary titled, “I Love My Bag”. It took me some effort to hunt it down (it’s in French) but I found it and I’m linking it here. You’ll have to go to Vimeo to view it directly:

I LOVE MY BAG from Melinda Triana on Vimeo.

 

I’m sorry I couldn’t find the English version: I’ll replace this video as soon as I locate it! There are, however, different segments in English that you can enjoy. In the meantime, take in the beautiful fashion and interviews with different handbag connoisseurs and designers.

life curation · style

Re-Imagining the Classics, Part 2

MstldelanoLeave a comment

This post is a continuation of the Re-Imagining the Classics theme. We continue to look at some of the classic wardrobe pieces and see some suitable alternatives that retain classic appeal but give it a fresh spin.

Instead of a Wrap Dress – Try a Shirtdress

Wrap dresses have been incorrectly identified as “flattering on every body type”. That isn’t true, though it flatters many different women. Likewise, the shirtdress isn’t for every body, though it looks great on many women. This generally requires more maintenance that the wrap dress (shirtdresses usually need ironing to look their best), but the finished product is more structured and looks crisp.

These shirtdresses from iLover are inexpensive and adorable. They are available in many different colors and designs.

Instead of a Jean Jacket – Try a Leather (or leather-like material) Jacket

 The leather (or leather-looking) jacket adds edge and coolness to almost any outfit. It also tends to look more polished than its denim counterpart. This material can be designed to fit loosely or to mimic the shape of the body, so there is a leather jacket style for everyone. Bonus: leather substitutes can give you the look of leather without the cruelty, so it’s easy to find beautiful designs made with vinyl or other vegan leather materials.

This genuine leather jacket by BGSD is fitted, edgy and flattering.

This faux leather jacket by Chouyatou is affordable and has a striking, flattering shape

Instead of Ankle Boots – Try Riding Boots

When you live in a region that gets chilly in the winter, you want a boot that covers more than just your ankles. Riding boots – both the rugged style and the more refined and elegant rendition – cover most of the calf and can be styled with dresses, pants and skirts.

These BareTraps Riding Boots have a low heel, plain shaft, and strap-and-buckle detail across the vamp, making them a flattering option for a variety of ensembles.

Instead of Black Pants – Try Charcoal Pants

Black pants are everywhere, and, to be honest, the look can get a little boring. Instead of reaching for black, why not try charcoal? The shade is still dark and neutral, but it provides a fresh interpretation on the solid pant look. Charcoal gray comes in varying degrees of depth, so it can be a mid-range gray or a shade-above-black hue. In any case, it’s a look that can add a hint of color to your wardrobe.

These Eddie Bauer pants have a flattering straight leg and come in a luscious graphite hue

Instead of a Knit Sweater – Try an Elegant Sweatshirt

Sweaters are lovely, but they normally have to be handled with care (washed on delicate or dry cleaned, air dried, etc.). Why not try an elegant sweatshirt instead? The key to keeping the look from being too sporty is to avoid any designs featuring thick cuffs or heavy ribbing around the neckline. Also check the fit: the more fitted to the body, the most elegant it looks.


This Sarin Matthews sweatshirt fits closer to the body and comes in beautiful deep shades.

That is all of the re-imagined classics! Make sure to check out Part One for additional recommendations. Talk to you all tomorrow!

life curation · style

Re-Imagining the Classics, Part 1

Mstldelano2 Comments

Happy Monday, boos! I hope you’ve had a satisfying weekend and are ready to embrace this new week with ARMS WIDE OPEN! (I’m in an extra good mood, and you’ll find out why in the weeks to come)

I’ve searched high and low on the internet for a guide that gives a fresh spin on some the “staple” wardrobe pieces that women are advised to add to their collection. Women have been given such generic advice on items to add to their wardrobe for the sake of fashion: it’s about time that someone provided some different options. I enjoyed reading Stitch Fix’s clothing recommendations, but here are a few of my own ideas for reimagining some classic wardrobe staples. I’m doing this review in two parts because, why not? It’s easier to write and research pieces if I don’t put them all into one post (which I’m inclined to do, ordinarily LOL!)
Instead of the Crisp White Tee – Try a Navy Tee
It can be challenging to keep white clothing bright and fresh-looking. The opposite shade – black- is nice but it can be a bit “heavy” when worn near the face. On the other hand, navy is softer and still looks chic. Navy compliments a lot of different colors and looks excellent with those colors that people traditionally avoiding combining with black (such as yellow and green).

A simple tee by Hanes looks great and is a solid alternative to a white tee

Instead of the Little Black Dress – Try the Little White Dress
Everyone loves and wears black when they want to look pulled together and polished. But, women with darker complexions look heavenly in white, cream and eggshell. In a sea of black sameness, wearing a little white dress (LWD) stands out and flatters deeper skin tones. Something about the color contrast is especially enchanting. And since this isn’t the kind of dress you’d wear every day, keeping it crisp looking is a lot easier.

 

One of my favorite brands, Black Halo, makes impeccably tailored dresses

The Calvin Klein dress has a beautiful shape in a pristine white hue

Instead of Dark Wash Skinny Jeans – Try Pale Gray Skinny Jeans

Skinny jeans in dark finishes are always stylish, but for those bored with that look, why not try pale gray skinnies? These pair well with a lot of different colors and are surprisingly well-suited for year-round wear.

The super-tapered hem on these Calvin Klein skinny jeans make this an edgy but polished option. The back pockets are also smaller and placed a bit higher than many other jeans, so they give a “perky” effect.

These skinny jeans by Celebrity Pink have a less-tapered hem than the previous pants, so they have a more relaxed look and feel.

Instead of Basic Black Pumps – Try Nude (Skintone) Pumps
Black court shoes are an easy classic and compliment most ensembles. But my favorite pump is the nude pump. Something about the illusion of everlasting legs is so classy and flattering. Not to mention, nude pumps truly can be worn with any color.
Here are some pumps by Riverberry: the company offers several pumps in varying skintone shades at very affordable prices (click on the shoe closest to your shade to see it for yourself)



Instead of a Button-Up Shirt –  Try a Boatneck Shirt

I chose the boatneck for one trait that it shares with button-up shirts: neither design is particularly kind to buxom women. For women that have smaller busts, the boatneck is a fabulous option for a classy, wear-with-everything top. The advantage of boatnecks over button-ups is that the boatneck top usually doesn’t need much ironing to look fresh and stylish. Audrey Hepburn favored a boatneck top: need I say more?

749bc4c575b230180a5ca922b875af95

Audrey wearing the style that has become synonymous with her style legacy (photo from Pinterest)

This Yala top is highly rated and reasonably priced

Merona’s boatneck top is available on both Amazon and in Target stores

 

That’s all for this post! Look out for the second half of Re-imagining the Classics within the next week. Have a great Monday!

hollywood glamour · style

How to Dress Like Audrey Hepburn

MstldelanoLeave a comment

A few months ago, Christie’s had an enormous Audrey Hepburn memorabilia auction. In fact, I wrote about it during the early days of this blog. The auction featured over 300 items personally owned by Audrey. Given Audrey’s immense popularity, it should be no surprise that the auction generated nearly $6.5 million in sales (4.6 million GBP).

Screenshot 2018-01-19 at 5.34.15 PM - Edited

Photo as shown on Christie’s

If you, like me, weren’t one of the lucky auction winners, take heart. Audrey was a woman of classic taste and many of clothing items sold can be easily duplicated. Here, I’ll share some of the items featured in the auction, as well as my recommendations for recreating the look.

By the way, you may notice that the items aren’t the signature pieces from her films but, rather, her own personal, off-screen wardrobe (with lots of pieces from her later years). I actually like the fact that the pieces are “everyday” chic, because they don’t come across as “costume-y”. But remember, these are Audrey’s clothes: even her “everyday” items are much more stylish than what most people wear.

Without further ado, here are some of my favorite items from the auction as well as items to recreate the look. I found pieces on Boohoo and Amazon, which aren’t expensive but allows you to try a look at a low price. Enjoy!

A Black Silk Crepe Tuxedo and Associated Ivory Wool Crepe Trousers

Screenshot 2018-01-19 at 5.52.48 PM - Edited

Get the look:

Rhea Boutique Double Breasted Tailored Tux Blazer

Screenshot 2018-01-19 at 7.40.41 PM - Edited

This double breasted tux has the same satin lapels but it’s a fraction of the cost of the original jacket. The hem is a little below the hip bone, so it feels more relaxed than formal.

Adana Tie Waist Tailored Slim Fit Trouser

Screenshot 2018-01-19 at 7.41.58 PM - Edited

While the trousers owned by Audrey probably had a less ornate waist, I prefer the less-expensive option. The tie waist adds visual interest when the tuxedo jacket is open or removed. The design of the legs of both trousers are very similar.

 

An Ivory Silk Shirt and Black Silk Skirt

Screenshot 2018-01-19 at 5.52.43 PM - Edited

Get the look:

Molly Tailored Shirt

Screenshot 2018-01-19 at 8.06.20 PM - Edited

This fitted blouse looks great with skirts and pants, and easily goes from the workplace to after hours events. To maximize the Audrey look, wear this with as few accessories as possible.

Savannah Chiffon Pleated Midi Skirt

Screenshot 2018-01-19 at 8.06.53 PM - Edited

Unless you’re extremely thin and a little bit tall (like Audrey), a midi length is more flattering. The flowing design of this pleated dress echoes the movement of the original skirt. However, the texture created by the pleats keeps this skirt from feeling too visually “heavy”.

 

An Oatmeal Wool Trench Coat

Screenshot 2018-01-19 at 5.52.34 PM - Edited

Get the look (click on the image to link to the coat):

This coat has a beautifully detailed shoulder and a charming collar. This could easily mimic the original by replacing the fasteners with oatmeal-colored buttons.

 

A White Cotton Blouse and Matching Skirt

Screenshot 2018-01-19 at 5.52.28 PM - Edited

Get the look:

Elizabeth Boutique Ruffle Tuxedo Shirt

Screenshot 2018-01-19 at 6.10.30 PM - Edited

The detailing along the button placket makes this a good choice for replicating Audrey’s white top. The additional ruffles on the top echo the subtle ruffles on the skirt of the original ensemble. Just remove the black tie and you’re set!

Tall Emily Boutique Tulle Mesh Midi Skirt

Screenshot 2018-01-19 at 6.12.12 PM - Edited

This midi skirt is made for tall girls, which makes it long enough to be an almost-maxi on women of average height. Audrey’s skirt isn’t tulle but it is flowy and a touch longer than midi-length. The simplicity of the skirt works well with the textured top.

luxury · style

Affordable Ways to Wear The Lastest Jewelry Trends

MstldelanoLeave a comment

Luxury London recently shared 7 Jewellery Trends for 2018: From Waterfall Earrings to Avant Garde Pearls. I am excited for what kind of unique interpretations we’ll see this year. The article focuses on luxury jewelers that are creating this pieces, but I took some time to find some affordable versions of these trends. You can check out my recommendations below. Enjoy!

Shoulder Skimming Earrings

Going Green

       

Extra Long Necklaces

Pick-N-Mix Earrings

         

Modern Pearls

          

Punk Accents

Statement Cuffs

         

I’m really enjoying the green gemstones as well as the fresh take on pearl jewelry. Do any of you currently have jewelry that fits into one of these trend categories? Let us know in the comments below!

hollywood glamour · luxury · style

How to Look Like Marilyn Monroe

Mstldelano2 Comments

As part of the Hollywood Glamour series, I wanted to find clothing that channeled the old Hollywood aesthetic. There are a lot of vintage clothing stores, that specialize in authentic vintage as well as recreations. But these stores are plentiful and, honestly, you could easily locate them on your own.

I wanted to bring something a little less known and even more special that what you’d find in the average Google Search.

Enter Iconic Dresses.

This Etsy shop features replicas of some of the most stylish ensembles on the silver screen during Hollywood’s golden age. They have quite a few Marilyn Monroe outfits from various movies, but they also have recreations of outfits worn by Jayne Mansfield, Betty Grable, Jane Russell, and more. These custom-made pieces capture the authenticity of the period reflected but the designed are so timeless that they look perfect on the woman of today.

One of my favorite ensembles is the leopard muff and cape, black top and black skirt that Marilyn wore in “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes”. Here’s a glimpse of what Marilyn looked like in the film:

mmpinterest

(from Pinterest)

I mean, come on: who wouldn’t want to look like that daily? This ensemble is just as stylish today as it was when Marilyn first wore it. These pieces are more expensive than most of the vintage reproduction shops’ offerings, but Iconic Dresses doesn’t mass produce the clothing, so a higher expense is expected. Also, the clothes are so striking and gorgeous: you’re getting the uniqueness that you’re paying for.

I plan to get an ensemble or two from Iconic Dresses before the end of the year (I have to downsize my wardrobe a bit more, so that I have room for new clothes!) I’ll let you all know as soon as I get it!

 

style

Five Ways to Make Your Wardrobe Winter-Friendly

MstldelanoLeave a comment

Stateside beloveds, are you officially TIRED of winter yet?

I mean, unless you’re in Miami, Southern California or Hawaii, you’re probably experiencing crazy chilly winter temps. If you’re anything like me, you’re ready to go into hibernation until the spring. Wake me up after the first thaw!

Unlike our woodland friends, most of us can’t burrow under the covers until the vernal equinox (mark your calendars: it’s March 20th). Since we must brave the elements, we have to figure out a way to stay warm while we do it.

Sadly, staying warm usually comes at the expense of looking stylish. Yes, it’s possible to look amazing in winter gear (cue Olivia Pope) but once you take off your amazing winter coat, stylish wool hat, and spectacular scarf and gloves, is the remainder of your outfit lackluster and unstylish?

That ends TODAY! I’m going to give you my five favorite ways to “winter-ize” my wardrobe. Not only does this let me wear my summer favorites all year round, but it helps me to look polished and stay warm, too. Enjoy!

  • Putting a turtleneck or blouse over, or under, a dress

One of my favorite dresses is a thin, pale pink, v-necked, knee-length dress. The color looks great all year round, but the weight of the fabric, combined with the v-neck, makes it a little too breezy for wintertime. I make this dress wearable in the winter by layering it over AND under a turtleneck or fitted cotton blouse. It makes the dress warmer to wear and it also adds a little preppy flavor.

The Charter School Turtleneck is thin enough for layering but thick enough to keep you warm.

The Chiffon Blouse with Bow Detail Collar adds a soft, elegant touch when layered with a dress.

  • Patterned tights with everything

Tights are a no-brainer, but if they’re thick and patterned, you can completely uplevel an otherwise nondescript ensemble. This is best with simple shift and sheath dresses. Of course, you can also wear these under slacks, giving a peek of whimsy at the ankles when you sit or step. That v-neck summer dress that I mentioned previously looks great paired with charcoal, navy, or burgundy patterned tights.

Screenshot 2018-01-03 at 4.51.07 PM - Edited

These Into the Atmosphere Tights tights are ethereal and eye-catching.

  • Knee-high boots instead of pumps

I’ll admit to being a bit of a boot fiend. I don’t care of they’re expensive or cheap: so long as they look good, I’ll wear them. My favorites are knee-high boots, either slightly dressy or riding boots. I often opt for these instead of pumps, since these cover more skin and keep my legs warmer. They can look great when paired with the right dress or pants. Knee-high boots can look fabulous with skirts of any length, so don’t feel limited to wearing only knee-length – or shorter – skirt lengths.

Screenshot 2018-01-03 at 4.17.04 PM - Edited

Perfect height, perfect heel, but the glitter isn’t for the faint at heart. Still, the Gone Glitzy Knee-High Boot  is a gorgeous showstopper.

  • Wear support garment and slips

These aren’t always the most comfortable option, but support garments are a great thin layer that not only makes you look better in your clothes but also keep you warm. The stretchy material woven into support garments (usually lycra or spandex) isn’t breathable like cotton, so it will help insulate your body heat. It’s not so ideal for warm weather, but great during the chilly months.

Screenshot 2018-01-03 at 5.11.47 PM - Edited

The Emphasize Aplomb Contouring Slip is shapewear and a slip all in one

If you don’t want to wear shapewear, the  Loveliest Lining Full Slip is a fabulous alternative

Slips are a throwback to days of yesteryear, where women didn’t feel “properly dressed” without adding this additional layer between their skin and their outfit. Not only are slips beautiful, but they are super thin, so they aren’t obvious when you wear them, And thin layers are great for staying warm.

  • Adding cardigans and blazers

It’s an obvious choice, but it’s often overlooked in favor of sweaters (jumpers) and scarves. Not only do these add warmth, but they can completely change the look of an outfit. Cardigans add a preppy flair, and blazers are a great professional touch. I prefer blazers in classic colors – black, navy, charcoal gray, and camel- but I have fun with cardigans. Pink, blue, arctic white, emerald green: no color is off limits!

The Fine and Sandy Blazer comes in several lovely neutral shades

Cardis (like the Charter School Cardigan) in bright colors are always fashionable

I hope you all enjoyed my short list of items that you can wear, to stay warm all winter. If you know of any other items that make winter a little more tolerable, feel free to let me know in the comments below!

(all photos feature items available at one of my favorite retailers, Modcloth)

 

style

Boohoo Dresses – An Update

MstldelanoLeave a comment

As you all recall, I had several Boohoo hauls that I wrote about here and here. I just wanted to give you all an update on my dresses.

Since it’s been ridiculously cold in the Mid-Atlantic region, I’ve only been consistently wearing one of my Boohoo dresses: the Flo Ribbed Hi-Neck Dress (see photo below; as a side note, this color is no longer available at Boohoo, but there are still a lot of other color options to choose from on the website).

 

flolilas

 

This dress has been perfect for the chillier weather, since it’s thin enough to layer but has long sleeves and a slightly below-the-knee length. I’ve worn it with a blazer and knee-high boots, and it’s still a favorite! Here’s how I wore it before the weather got extra chilly:

IMG_1930 - Edited.jpg

While I had all of the dresses in rotation, I washed all of them at least twice, using a lingerie bag and regular wash cycle. I’m pleased to say that ALL of the dresses are still in excellent condition: no loose strings, fading, stretching or otherwise damaged fabric.

I have to say, these dresses have held up beautifully and were a great value. I look forward to wearing them again when the weather warms up!

hollywood glamour · style

Affordable Hollywood Glamour Series

MstldelanoLeave a comment

lovethoseclassicmovies

Dorothy Dandridge, the embodiment of all things glamorous

Once upon a time, I used to cruise the internet in search of any and all things vintage (I still do this, actually). I drew a great deal of inspiration from the glamorous looks worn by Hollywood stars from the first half of the 20th century. They looked so effortlessly luxurious, perfectly coiffed and naturally elegant. I loved everything about how these doyennes of the silver screen presented themselves for the public. They cared about what they wore and who saw them.

biography

The incomparable Hedy Lamarr

When you look at photos of classic actresses, you can’t help but think, “Wow they look great”. They had the benefit of the Hollywood style machine, combing over every inch of their personal appearance to ensure that they looked picture perfect at all times. But even though we know they had LOTS of help, many of us still enjoy the possibility of recreating some of these looks RIGHT NOW.

imdb

The perfectly styled Veronica Lake

I can’t say that I’ve reached that level of dedication, but I aspire to it. As a result, I want to share some of the websites and other goodies that I find help to cultivate a glamorous image.

pinterest

Gene Tierney, an effortless beauty

Now I know that glamour isn’t for everyone, and even for those that are interested in it, it’s not something that they want to employ every day. But for those that do want to dip their toes into the glamour pool, this will be an easy catalog of glamorous indulgences that can be referred to whenever you need to tap into your most stylish self.

thedyingmovierace

The radiant Theresa Harris

So as part of this series, I’ll share posts about makeup, clothing, jewelry, diet, books, and documented daily routines of stars of yesteryear. This is all about creating a more stylish existence for women that are ready to glam up their day-to-day existence. Glamour is fun: let’s all play with it!

nndb

The timeless beauty of Merle Oberon

I hope you all enjoy!

(Photos courtesy of Pinterest, NNDB, Biography, The Dying Movie Race, Love Those Classic Movies and IMDB)