How to Take your Simple Jeans and a Tee Style to the Next Level

There’s something about the sun shining and the warm breeze that makes summer the time to re-evaluate your wardrobe staples, highlighting your favorite basics, your must-have statement pieces, and your summer necessities, like sunglasses and a hat.

Who wants to spend hours getting ready in the morning when the sun is streaming through your windows and everyone is out enjoying the heat?  Not me!  Throwing on jeans and a simple tee is a great alternative to rummaging through your overflowing closet for your wildest showstopper pieces.  Relaxing outside with friends calls for an equally relaxing outfit, with just one small caveat: simple and relaxed clothing is fine, but pairing it with compliment-worthy accessories makes it even better!

 

Created with the StyleChat App

It’s all about the eyewear in the Summer!  Bold shades take the attention from your clothing to your face, so why not add a pair of boho-inspired chandelier earrings!

Your feet are in luck as well because this Summer some of the cutest shoes have been flat slip-on sandals or mules!  Check out the StyleChat app to find out where you can buy all the hot items featured in the above look!

By: Jaclyn Parker

 

Congrats Grads!

Whether you’re graduating from high school or college- four years of hard work has come to a close and your future is so bright! The thought can be daunting, but remember you’ve made it this far and with a few steps further each day you’re bound to produce a lifetime of achievements.

So what’s next? Interviews, internships, volunteering- all of the best for post grad! And of course you gotta look and feel your best. We’ve rounded up some tip top options for all your professional needs. Take on your next steps with cool and confidence. You deserve it!

 

Forever21 Pleated Jumpsuit, $30; Chalayan Sculptured jacket, $1860; Ember Blush Suede heels, $150; Kate Space pearl studs, $48; Fossil word bag, $300

Let’s Neckcesssorize

It’s no secret the neck scarf has become the biggest accessory of the season. This look has plenty of 70s flavor, but the real question is how do we use this trend to separate ourselves above the rest? Think outside the box with these these très français outfit necessities and connect even more varying aesthetics: think biker-girl-meets-bohemian, in the words of Refinery29.

Try these scarf looks with the classic leather jackets over overalls, midi-skirts, or dresses, all toughened up with some ~neckcessory~ flair. Each look, regardless of how different it may be, was tied together with the simplest of accessories- and one that definitely won’t break the bank. Check out our favorite scarf options on your very own StyleChat feed!

-Ashley Cooke, Social Media Intern

Spring Break Forever

Cabo? Hawaii? Exotic Places? What’s your Spring Break destination?

Whether you’re planning ahead for an upcoming trip or scrambling to get things together before you jet off tomorrow, we’ve broken down some of the best spring break traveling must-haves you cannot leave home without! These major pieces are key to packing smart and packing light, where versatility is key. Check out these looks a tropical getaway, and don’t forget to collar with all your best gal pals on Style Chat!

BCBG MAXAZRIA dress, $298
Marc Fisher LTD Espadrille Sandals, $140
Forever21 Straw Hat, $14
Aldo Necklace, $18

Free People Dress, $128
TopShop Sandals, $125
Urban Outfitters Criss Cross Headband, $18
Mango Applique Belt, $36

 

-Ashley Cooke, Social Media Intern

What to Buy your Stylish Friends this Holiday Season

December is the time we normally all start stressing about buying the perfect gifts for our friends and loved ones. Sometimes it’s easy to know exactly what they want, and other times, it can be more of a guessing game. If you have a stylish female friend in your life, here are five original gift ideas that could be perfect for her.

For your friend who decorates her house or apartment with pieces that are anything but ordinary, try giving her a delectably odd geometric lamp that will add flair to her already uniquely decorated apartment.

Photo Courtesy of Urban Outfitters

For your girlie tea-loving friend who has tried to explain to you numerous times the difference between a sencha and a houjicha green tea, get her a David’s Tea teacup. You don’t have to be a tea connoisseur to know that she’ll love this girlie, holiday-inspired teacup.

Photo Courtesy of David’s Tea

For your friend who’s a burgeoning Instagramer or an aspiring beauty blogger, you can’t go wrong with getting her a how-to hair book. Help her overcome her past failed hairstyle attempts with this hairstyle guide from Urban Outfitters.

Photo Courtesy of Urban Outfitters

For your friend who’s always hosting a party or classy dinner get-together, she can never have too many stylish coasters. These rustic, pink cracked-glass coasters will not only help her protect her tabletops during the many parties that she hosts, but will also let her do it in style!

Photo Courtesy of Anthropologie

Finally, for your fashionable friend who can’t help herself at the jewelry counter, give her something that will help her organize the many pieces of jewelry that she owns. This upside-down umbrella ring dish will make all of her hand bling easily accessible and it’ll look adorable sitting on her vanity dresser.

Photo Courtesy of Anthropologie

When you’re shopping for all of these lavish gifts that your friends will love, use the StyleChat app to help you shop. Download it for free and make your shopping easier on yourself this holiday season!

By: Jaclyn Parker

 

The Hottest Handbags you Need Right Now

Finding the perfect handbag is like finding the perfect man. Okay, perhaps that’s a slight exaggeration, but we’re not lying when we say that this season’s handbags will bring you a lot of happiness!

We’re starting off with red hot handbags. This shiny, red leather Coach shoulder bag will give your look the perfect splash of color!

Photo Courtesy of Bloomingdales ($495.00)

An article on fashionisers.com breaks down the hottest handbag trends we’ll see this season. From 70’s fringe to reptile skin, handbags are getting bigger and bolder. Designers, such as Bottega Veneta, Prada, and Lanvin are bringing bold colored skins into their handbag collection.

Photo Courtesy of Fashionisers.com

After sexy new fabrics we then jump into a hot new shape: squared and boxy. Imagine your suitcase and briefcase are combined into one small handbag with a bright color and a chic little handle. Give your slouchy shoulder bags a rest, and try-out these hot new structured handbags!

Photo Courtesy of Fashionisers.com

If square handbags aren’t crazy enough for you, the next trend on the list might be perfect! Keep your eye out for handbags with funky geometric shapes! These wild shapes are mixed with bold colors to create beautiful statement pieces that will add flavor to any look!

Photo Courtesy of Fashionisers.com

Since we’re now welcoming the fall season, it’s time to envelop ourselves in all the luxurious fabrics this season brings, including suede! Try suede in any color, from bright blue to neutral beiges, suede handbags will help transition your look from summer to fall.

Photo Courtesy of Fashionisers.com

What handbag will you sport this season? Check out the StyleChat app to browse and buy all of your favorite bags!

By: Jaclyn Parker

Ride on the Wild Side with the Trendiest Sunglasses this Season

We all search for that perfect pair of sunglasses that will suit our face shape, give us star quality, and keep our eyes protected. This season’s trendiest sunglasses beg us to take a ride on the wild side while we experiment with bold colors and bold shapes. Inspired by the mod ‘60s, we’re seeing an outpour of sunglasses that have taken the cat-eye shape to the next level!

These bold navy sunglasses from Le Spec, will give you an old school intensity that will have everyone turning their heads to look at you!

Le Specs ($119.00), Featured on The Zoe Report

Step into the limelight with these hot red Kate Spade sunglasses. The color’s bold, but the shape is less severe or dramatic.

Kate Spade New York at Neiman Marcus ($170.00)

Ready to experiment with a bright lens color? These sunglasses with a white frame and a fiery yellow lens will have people staring from miles away!

Anna-Karin Karlsson at Neiman Marcus ($690.00)

Are these bold styles just a little too over the top for you? Have no fear because there are subtle cat-eye sunglasses that will give you just the right amount of style and comfort without taking you too far out of your comfort zone.

These black sunglasses have a subtle cat-eye shape, a simple light-colored lens, and a delicate thin frame.

MARC by Marc Jacobs at Neiman Marcus ($120.00)

No matter which style you choose, rock it with confidence! Pair your favorite bold sunglasses with your hottest skinny jeans and a t-shirt, and you’ll steal the spotlight wherever you go!

Download the StyleChat app to see a variety of looks styled with the trendiest sunglasses this season!

By: Jaclyn Parker

Stock up on the Hottest Leather Finds this Fall

Before we know it we’ll be packing away our summer hats, sandals, and dresses, and replacing them with hot new fall merchandise. It’s time to pack away the light fabrics and substitute them with leather. From shoes to bags, and much more, Elle.com gives us some examples of leather items that won’t break your budget!

First on the list is a pair of leather flats that would look cute with anything from a dress to a pair of jeans. Whether you’re going to work or going to school, these comfy leather flats will keep your feet at ease all day!

Cosstores.com ($125.00), Featured on Elle.com

If you’re looking for shoes that are a bit fancier this fall, perhaps it’s time to slip on a pair of black leather sling back high heels with a touch of fringe!

H&M ($70.00), Featured on Elle.com

These moderately priced H&M sandals can be dressed up with a skirt and top, or played down with your favorite pair of skinny jeans and a warm sweater for fall. Despite your outfit choice, these fringe sandals will keep you on trend!

Next on the list, we have a leather clutch that stands out with a vibrant bold bright pink color! This cute lip-shaped clutch could be a coin purse by day and a clutch by night!

Luisaviaroma.com ($122.00), Featured on Elle.com

Accenting with leather accessories can be a great way to ease yourself into fall season fashion. This white leather Nixon watch is feminine and chic, and will add intrigue to any outfit. Pair it with a white or beige leather clutch for the perfect matching look.

Nixon ($125.00), Featured on Elle.com

Last but not least, it’s time to think about your jewelry choice. This simple leather bead necklace would work with great with a pair of a jeans and your favorite t-shirt or fall sweater. It’s simple, chic, and perfect for fall!

Chan Luu at Shopbop ($105.00), Featured on Elle.com

Incorporating leather into your look should be a breeze with the wide variety of leather products hitting stores this fall. From shoes, to handbags, watches, jewelry, and more, the possibilities are endless! What’s your favorite leather accessory?

By: Jaclyn Parker

Wearable Tech Trends You’ll Want to See

We’ve all seen the emergence of wearable technology, such as Google Glass, smart watch, and more, but these ideas are just the tip of the iceberg. CNBC lists some of the most intriguing wearable tech trends that will keep you wanting to see more. While some are more frivolous than others, there are some that may turn out to be extremely convenient.

Image Source: Wearable Solar, Featured on CNBC

Imagine for instance, that you could charge your smart phone with your clothing. Designers are working towards using flexible solar panels in clothing to charge your devices. We’ve already seen the invention of handbags that can charge certain devices. This trend is definitely one that could make life a lot easier if successful.

Image source: Electrolux Design Lab, Featured on CNBC

Next up we have an air filter device that is worn around the wrist and purifies the air around you. Just imagine the air smelling fresh and clean everywhere you go. The smart watch may not be the only device you want to wear around your wrist!

Image Source: Rainbow Winters, Featured on CNBC

Designer, Amy Winters, has experimented with clothing that changes in your environment. For example, she uses holographic leather that illuminates when the volume increases. She has also created a bathing suit that reacts to light. Our streets would be a lot more colorful and festive if everyone was wearing this exciting new wearable technology!

Image source: Adafruit Industries, Featured on CNBC

The next wearable trend to keep your eye on would be particularly helpful for bicycle enthusiasts. A DIY electronics company called Adafruit, has created a helmet that has a built-in navigational system. The helmet has lights that flash on the right or left to let the biker know which direction to turn so that you don’t have to be looking at your smart phone to know where to go. We all know biking while using a smart phone could be hazardous; this invention would help bikers keep their smart phones out of their hands while biking.

Image Source: Ying Gao, Featured on CNBC

Last but not least, fashion designer Ying Gao, has incorporated eye-tracking technology into her designs. She has created dresses that move when eyes are looking at them. This would surely make discrete staring, a much harder task! Would you want to know when all eyes are on you? What’s your favorite emerging wearable technology? We’d love you to share in the comments below!

By: Jaclyn Parker

This Season’s Hottest Jewelry Trends

This season’s jewelry trends take bracelets, rings, and earrings to the next level. InStyle.com shows us the new trends taking over this season. First they show us that the bracelet has migrated up the arm with the new growing popularity of arm cuffs. Selena Gomez adds some flavor to her look with a multi-band gold arm cuff. Try out this new trend when you’re wearing your favorite summer sleeveless dresses.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images, Featured on InStyle.com, Click to Original Post.

If the arm cuff isn’t funky enough for you, perhaps you’ll like this next trend: ear cuffs. Ear cuffs give the impression that you have multiple ear piercings, without actually needing to have your ears pierced. The ear cuff can sit mainly behind your ear or clip on to the front and back. This spring it’s time to set your earring studs aside and throw on your favorite pair of ear cuffs instead.

Courtesy of Nasty Gal, Click to Original Site.

The next trend listed on In Style, gives us a new way to jazz up our hands. We’ve seen the rise of midi-skirts this season, and now it’s time to say hello to midi rings! Nasty Gal features a great midi-ring set that lets you choose how many midi-rings you want to wear and on what fingers. This let’s you keep your look fun and fresh as you play around with the combination of your midi rings. Try pairing midis with regular rings if you’re looking for a more edgy look.

Courtesy of Nasty Gal, Click to Original Post

It’s time to experiment with some new unusual jewelry. Once you’ve tried arm cuffs, ear cuffs, and midi rings, your next step could be body chains, leg chains, shoulder chains, and much more. Jewelry trends are spreading beyond the typical necklace and bracelet. It’s time to embrace all the new fun looks! What’s your favorite jewelry trend?

By: Jaclyn Parker