Tag Archives: Style

SPRING GROCERIES, part 3

spring groc

Good evening, my sweet readers! Today I’m back with the last part of our Spring Groceries series. Since you are probably tired from a long day of work, I’m gonna make this quick. Every season has its staples and for Spring 2013, it’s all about a game between the neutrals and the brights. Ready to play? Here they are!

NEUTRALSNeutrals are major mixers and life savers. When not having a clue on how to pair up that pair of wild printed trousers, throw a neutral solid and you are good to go! This Spring, palate cleansers are one of the strongest trends, but instead of spending on a stylish, seasonal piece, why not buy something that can work with almost anything, and in every season. Here’s a list of items your closet desperately needs:

  1. Barely there heels: Get a black pair, a colorful one if you want but please you can’t leave your wardrobe without a pair of nude, barely there, heeled sandals. Zara (pictured) has quite an assortment, so does Net-a-porter.
  2. The white shorts: This asymmetrical style from Zara has everyone going crazy, but if you are not into the whole wrap-around shorts, any type of white smart shorts will do. Leg flashing is the biggest warm weather perk.
  3. Naked top handle: Ladylike bags are a must this season and buying a neutral colored bag is always worth the splurge.
  4. The minimal clutch: For those evenings out with friends or date nights with the boyfriend, a minimal envelope clutch is a good game changer. This beauty is from Marni.
  5. Basic trainers: Forget about the black high-tops you wore all Winter, this season is all about bright whites. Isabel Marant has a beautiful pair, but so does Zara (pictured). Go get  ‘em!
  6. Short-sleeve sweatshirt: A major basic for Spring! Great with denim shorts, camo skinnies or over a sundress, possibilities are endless! This one is from Zara.
  7. Nude joggers: Maybe is just me, but lately, smart joggers are my new skinny jeans. With a cropped top and a blazer or a lightweight sweater, you can go to work, to a lunch and even happy hour!
  8. LWD: Who cares about black when you can soak up the sun in a little white number. This baby is from McQueen.
  9. The white pump: If you don’t have your pair or haven’t seen them everywhere, yoy really have been missing on a major trend.
  10. Neutral nails: They were on almost every runway last September and YSL’s Beige Leger is the perfect shade to pull it off.
  11. Naked sandals: A single strap in a neutral color? Perfect Spring and Summer off-duty companions.

birghts

For every neutral you get, you should get a bright. The best way to cheer and spice up an ensemble is with a colorful garment. This season, there’s a lot of color, a lot of it!

  1. Bold bralet: Pair up your high-waisted pants with one of this, throw over a blazer. Trust me, it doesn’t get more chic than that. Just remeber, do your crunches, drink your water! Bralet, Tucker
  2. Ethnic mini: The perfect garment for those sunny days, with a denim shirt or a plain tee. Flat sandals? Lace-up heels? Skirt, Thu Thu
  3. The bright pussybow: For work, to spice up your corporate look. To dress up your jeans for a lunch date with friends. With a pair of shorts for an easy breezy evening. It’s classic with a twist.
  4. Emerald trousers: You choose the cut and shape (tapered, joggers, skinny, flared), but since Emerald is the color of the season, this are a must!
  5. Disco sandals: Metallic footwear is the biggest hit of the season (thanks Burberry Prorsum for that). A pair of mirror flat sandals in pink (from ASOS) or blue can make an outfit more fun and daring.
  6. Pink mini shoulder bag: Shoulder bags, little ones, have taken over Spring. We can find them in any color and texture we want, but a pink one? Pink is always resourceful, girly and pretty.
  7. Electric points: Electric blue has been around for a while now (jeans, dresses, bags) and pointy shoes just made a big comeback. Put them together and the result is flawlessly perfect. This sexy pair is from Zara.
  8. Silky shift: Shift dresses are ideal for warm and sunny days. Silk is perhaps the fabric with the most beautiful texture and it clings to the body like no other. Choose the color you prefer, but make it a bright one.
  9. The yellow blazer: When it comes to blazers this Spring, yellow is the new black. This one is affordable and happy, you can find it on Zara.com
  10. Pink hot shorts: Pink will have the leading role when it comes to colors this Fall. Why not start wearing it right now? Shorts, Christopher Kane
  11. Naked & red: I’ve said it a million times, barely there sandals are a must this season. Get them in every color possible, I know I will. Add a touch of spice by buying a red pair. Heels, Zara
  12. Vitamin bodycon bikini: There’s nothing sexier than a bandage bikini in orange or pink? Remember, vitamin color and a tan make a killer combo. Bikini, Herve Leger.

And that’s a wrap for our Spring Groceries series! Now you know what you need, so… Happy shopping!

Sweet kisses…

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis
Image sources:  Net-a-porter, Polyvore, Farfetch, Zara

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

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LADY DOODLES, the wallpaper

lady doodles

It all began one rainy afternoon, when wanting to creatively personalize my resume… I started with one doodle, then the other and so on. I scanned them and began piling them up. I copied and pasted them like a hundred times and this was the result: a pretty and girly wallpaper I decided to name “Lady Doodles”. You likey?

Sweet kisses…

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

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SPRING GROCERIES, part 2

groceries

As promised, I am back with another one of our Spring Groceries posts, it’s the second from a three-part series. Dressing up casually or for an evening out is relatively easy. Almost every day, women ask themselves the same question: “What am I supposed to wear today?” And then comes the next statement: “I have absolutely nothing to wear (even though the closet is packed with clothes)”. Having your off-duty and on duty basics is what will save you from arriving late to dinner after you put on your entire closet and ended up with the first thing you tried on. They will save you from arriving late to work because your alarm didn’t go off and you didn’t have a last minute savior, the garment you know you can pair with almost anything and whip up a great look. This reasons are reasons enough for me to put together a Spring 2013 Off-duty, On duty basics. Check them out and cross out those you already have. Let’s begin!

on dutyDrinks with friends, a first date, a family dinner, a night out with the colleagues, our lives are filled with things to do and places to be. And there are times where those skinny jeans and your high-tops just won’t do. For a dressier occasion, there is always the basic garment you just can’t live without. Forget about the boring black blazer or the black stiletto pumps, this Spring  the “on duty” garments are more unexpected than expected:

  1. Warrior heels: They are sexy and they have that “good girl gone bad” vibe. Men love them and they have the power of sexing-up anything you are wearing. Brian Atwood is responsible for this two-toned beauties.
  2. Minimal culotte: With a sweatshirt, with a shirt and a blazer, with a tee, with a leather top, possibilities are endless. This pair is from Zara and is already a blogger favorite.
  3. The detailed button-down: Leave your white shirt for work or an off-duty day. When going out, printed, embroidered or embellished blouses are the way to go. Feeling a little edgy? Match them to crazy prints and killer heels. This beauty is from Marni.
  4. The black envelope: If you don’t have one already, start saving up! Black envelope clutches are perfect for when having to make a day outfit a little dressier for the night. Marni also made this black number.
  5. The evening slipper: How many times have you wanted to ditch the heels for a night but you don’t have another option that goes with your evening ensemble. A pair of embroidered slippers or leopard ones (Charlotte Olympia’s kittens are a dreamboat) will save your life and your outfit!
  6. The monochromatic trousers: Black and white is a classic that never goes out of style. This season, with the Beetlejuice stripes everywhere, options are endless. You can go for the whole Balmain style striped jeans or off-white trousers with black details.
  7. The new LBD: Forget about your tailored, simple frock. Go for a detailed one: textures, lace, ruffles, leather, your choice. Victoria Beckham is a master when it comes to reworking the famous LBD.
  8. The double-breasted waistcoat: Forget about the black blazer, each time you want to add a tailored piece to you ensemble, go for the waistcoat. Oh yeah, the vest is the new blazer. Waistcoat, Zara.
  9. Statement skirt: I like them flouncy, but you can go pencil, a-line or bodycon. Just pick a print that’s bold, but not flashy enough. Remember, basics are meant to go with everything. Skirt, Zara
  10. Naked black heels: There’s nothing sexier than pedicured feet (please, when wearing this, a pedicure, moisturizer and a good scrub is mandatory) in a pair of barely there heels. Have always a black pair with you, it will come in handy when you least expect it! Heels, Zara
  11. The evening bomber: Need to cover up for a windy Spring night? Leave your biker at home and switch to an evening bomber. Don’t think varsity, you can now find them in silk, lace, leather, even beautiful prints. This baby is from DKNY.

OFF DUTY

Dressing up for a casual day can be more difficult than it seems, save yourself the trouble and check this list. You should (ok, if you want to) have all this items inside your closet at all times, clean, ironed and ready to wear. You never know when you’ll need them!

  1. The army tee: Even if you are not keen on camo, this baby with a pair of cut-offs, some skinny jeans or even a leather skirt can be a total life saver. Tee, Current Elliot
  2. Casual ruffles: This is a boho chic skirt, but you can give it the twist you want with the right choice of top. A long sweater with some boots for a more relaxed and comfy style. A tee and some sneakers or a leather jacket for some edge?
  3. The denim shirt: Always a basic, always comes in handy and with the denim trend this season, even more so. This beauty is from Dsquared.
  4. The cool aviators: I’ve always been a Ray Ban kind of gal, but with all the designers embracing this shape, possibilities are endless. For a touch of glamour, go for gold frames.
  5. White and distressed: Blue jeans are not as exciting as white ones. Add some rough patches and a great fit, you’ve got a winning combo. You can wear them at night with a cool top, for the day with a tee and a bomber.
  6. The off-duty tunic: Days where you don’t want to think and pair garments happen to all of us. That’s when the off duty tunic comes in: throw a pair of flat gladiators, a messenger bag and a denim jacket and you are good to go! Tunic, Zara
  7. The gray pullover: Sweatshirts have take over the word thanks to the genius Nicolas Ghesquiere and a gray one is the one that has proved more resourceful.
  8. The beaded jacket: You might think of this baby as more of an evening garment, but trust me, a white tank and some distressed skinnies with some barely there flats is pure bliss. You’ll be comfy, you’ll be well dressed and you’ll survive the heat.
  9. The Becketts: They are the originals, and trust me, they are worth the splurge. Isabel Marant is to blame for this babies and they are not going anywhere anytime soon. If you wanna save up, look for an alternative, not a clone. Adidas high-tops are to die for and affordable. CLICK HERE to take a look.
  10. Camel lace-ups: Sexy, off-duty or on duty depending what you pair them with, perfect for Spring and Summer. With jeans, with a boho dress, with shorts, with everything! Really, go, buy them, NOW! This wonders are from Rebecca Minkoff.

There you go, more staples for your Spring closet! One more to go and we will move on to how to wear them!

Have a beautiful weekend,

Sweet kisses…

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis
Image sources:  Net-a-porter, Polyvore, Farfetch, Zara

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

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SPRING GROCERIES, part 1

spring 96

Spring has definitely Sprung! Trees are growing their leaves, flowers are blooming, my coats and boots are stored in boxes and my feet are pedicure ready for sandals and barely there heels. Prior to Sweet n’raw’s Fashion Week special, we began covering this season’s strongest trends: Emerald, the Beetlejuice stripes, the palate cleansers, the floral prints and more. But there’s one thing about trends, no everyone likes to follow them and they don’t suit everyone who attempts to wear them. That’s why I have made my grocery list (Ok, ok! Shopping list… if only grocery shopping was that fun), packed with all the items that one must own this Spring and Summer and classified into colors, patterns and prints and even occasions. Over the next few days, I will be showing you two parts of the list in one post (I don’t want to bore the socks out of you with endless images and texts that resemble a puberty diary) and then we will be moving on to another section: How to wear our recently purchased “groceries”. So get your note pad and star scribbling, and then the fun part, start crossing out the items you already have or have just bought! Ready?

bolder

Prints and patterns are the best way to give that basic pair of pants the ultimate twist or to spice up an entire ensemble. This Spring, they are getting bolder and more fun than ever. Here’s the items you simply must have in your closet:

  1. The statement wedges: Whether you go for patterns, graphic or fabric prints, a flashy wedge sandal is a must this Spring. Charlotte Olympia and Zara have a great selection, but this Sergio Rossi pair took my breath away.
  2. Volume + stripes: Skirts with some structure always come in handy when creating playful looks, add some stripes (one of the biggest trends this season) and you have a winner. Skirt is from MSGM.
  3. Peplum with a twist: Last Fall, the peplum was everywhere! This Spring, it stuck around but with a new twist: colorful printed and textured. This fierce little number is from Preen.
  4. Tribal clutch: We all know and probably own tribal skirts and mini shorts, but how about some tribal arm candy? Zara has a bunch of options, including the one in the picture.
  5. Bold and flat: Long, pointy and flat is the new ballerina. Don’t discard them until you try them. This printed pair is from Zara.
  6. Head-turning trainers: Isabel Marant set them loose and we have loved and worshipped high-tops ever since then. Leave it to Givenchy’s Riccardo Tisci to put some silk and prints into the already lovely equation.
  7. Wild jacquard: I have to blame Jenna Lyons for my jacquard pants obsession and thank the rest of the designers who followed. This Spring is not only about printed pants, it’s also about the texture. Pants, Kenzo.
  8. Show-stopping shift: With the digital print revolution, you don’t need to spend $3,000 on a Mary Katrantzou or Peter Pilotto (pictured) dress. A shift with a bold pattern is a life savior when the heat is unbearable: you’ll look cute and put together, but you’ll feel comfy and fresh.
  9. Pattern knits: Fall gave us graphic jumpers, Spring is giving us patterned ones. Ideal for when creating texture and print mash-ups. Jonathan Saunders (pictured) has a great selection.
  10. Shorty and spotty: A major staple and one that I can guarantee you’ll use over and over are a pair of leopard shorts.
  11. Red bright lips: It’s all about a bright, almost orange pucker this Spring.
  12. Colorful crochet: Bold colors and Missoni? What’s not to love?

love notesRomantic pieces are not only pretty but also useful. You can get playful with them, pair them up with unexpected pieces: a biker jacket perhaps, or some hardcore boots on a lacey dress. You can put together a girly and ladylike ensemble. This season you will need the following:

  1. Pastel wedges: Pink, powder blue, minty or lavender, you choose! Stella McCartney is responsible for this darling babies.
  2. Retro sunnies: Think ladies of Mad Men, maybe Jackie O if she is more your style. Stella is also responsible for this pair.
  3. Firty skirt: flouncy with volume and in a pretty color and fabric. It’s not only for dressing up but can also be worn off-duty with a sheer tank or a tee. This pink number is from Miu Miu.
  4. Ruffle top: Chloe did ruffles, so did Gucci and Balenciaga. And since the white Chloe shift is almost unreachable, a romantic ruffled blouse is the perfect substitute. Blouse, Chloe
  5. Vivid bikini: Zimmermann has the best shapes when it comes to swimwear, but also the best prints. They make the most vivid and romantic, almost retro floral prints and you, my friend, need to own one of their bikinis.
  6. Princess flats: I assume you already have your mirrored heels, but you definitely need your glittery and sparkly pair of flats. Perfect fo when you want to add a touch of bling to an off-duty look or when you want to ditch the heels for an evening and still look picture perfect.
  7. Floral pants: Choose your style: harem, tapered, skinny, capri or wide. This come from the extraordinary mind of J. Crew’s Jenna Lyons.
  8. Creamy & lacy: A dress, no matter the length or shape, no matter the sleeves or the neckline, in creamy lace will always come in handy when it comes to sunny weather. This piece of art is from Jesus del Pozo.
  9. The pretty clutch: Pretty colors and heavy embellishment make this kind of bag the perfect companion for an important event or a fancy dinner. Purse, Lanvin
  10. Cutie pie jumper: Last Fall, Graphic knits were all about mad dogs, growling tigers, fierce eagles. This Spring is all about deers, pretty birds, cute cats and darling doggies.
  11. Floral shorts: I don’t need to say anything more, you should know by now that this are a must. Peter Som makes this pink pair.
  12. Afternoon tea heels: I have named them that way for a reason: Think about the kind of shoes you would wear if invited to an afternoon tea party in a garden. Ankle straps, printed fabric, girly details. You can find this pair on Zara.

There you go, from the bold to the lovely. Are this items already inside your closet? If not, start looking! On tomorrow’s post I will give you the on duty and off-duty items, don’t miss it!

Sweet kisses…

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis
Image sources:  Net-a-porter, Topshop, Polyvore, Farfetch, Zara

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

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MFW FALL 2013: The Trend Report

mfw trend report

Better late than ever, right? It took a while for me to round-up all the trends from MFW, we still have Paris (that’s gonna be even harder). Anyway, Milan is known for the glamour, the exentricity, the exaggeration. The list of designers is not as long as in Paris, London or New York. Most of the names are already big and well-known and even though there’s a debate about how Italian designers are staying a little behind, this Fashion Week was really, really good for the Italian fashion capital. The best shows? You’ll find out on Sunday, for today, enjoy the prettiest and strongest trends from the always stylish Milano.

pretty lady

  • Bottega Veneta
  • Antonio Marras
  • Alberta Ferretti

cinch it

  • Blumarine
  • Bottega Veneta
  • Gianfranco Ferré

TARTAN

  • Fausto Pugilisi
  • No. 21
  • Moschino
  • fit for a queenFausto Pugilisi
  • Dolce & Gabbana
  • Antonio Marras
  • crazy furFendi
  • Blumarine
  • Marni

fire red

  • Alberta Ferretti
  • Bottega Veneta
  • Dolce & Gabbana
  • good girlsMoschino
  • Blumarine
  • Alberta Ferretti
  • blue bloodedJil Sander
  • Missoni
  • Salvatore Ferragamo
  • bare legsRoberto Cavalli
  • Blumarine
  • Versace
  • sheerAlberta Ferretti
  • Gucci
  • Emilio Pucci
  • we are goldenAntonio Marras
  • Dolce & Gabbana
  • Emilio Pucci
  • embellishedRoberto Cavalli
  • Gucci
  • Emilio Pucci

That’s a wrap! Remember, on Sunday Sweet n’raw’s favorite shows. Don’t miss it!

It’s Friday, rock on!

Sweet kisses…

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis
Image sources:  Style.com, Pinterest,

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

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NYFW FALL 2013: The Trend Report

NYFW TRENDS

New York Fashion Week ended a week ago (a long time when it comes to the Fashion Month) and left a bunch of trends behind. As we are getting ready to welcome a new season (thank God Spring is just around the corner), we also get to discover what will be in store for us next Fall. Remember, in Fashion, we are always one step ahead. For Fall 2013, New York went back to basics. After a few seasons of surprises (Fall collections that looked more like Spring ones and vice versa), the Big Apple gave us old school, heavyweight, cold weather fashion. No need to mention the regulars, as they are not considered trends anymore: leather and fur were all over the Fall 2013 runways. Moving on to the novelties, designers really went the extra mile this time. They toned down the prints, but they really payed special attention to tailoring and textures. Mash-ups will be the next big thing next Winter.

As I mentioned before, this is a very different coverage from my previous ones. I wanted to focus more on the trends and on the shows that really made a statement than on reviewing single shows. Here’s a recap of the trends that walked the New York runways last week. Ready?military

Military gets the Fall treatment and a modern revamp.

  1. Michael Kors
  2. Calvin Klein Collection
  3. Prabal Gurung

rich accents

Lavish is one of the top trends this Spring and it will be sticking around for Fall!

  1. Ralph Lauren
  2. J. Crew
  3. Naeem Khan

teacher's petSchoolgirl, choir boy, teacher’s pet? They are back to hunt us, in a good and fashionable way.

  1. Kate Spade NY
  2. Milly
  3. Karen Walker

berryliciousTangerine? Emerald? Hell no! This season is all about the berries!

  1. Marc by Marc Jacobs
  2. Diane von Furstenberg
  3. Rag & Bone

mille feuilleA thousand layer outfit? Yes please!

  1. The Row
  2. 3.1 Phillip Lim
  3. Elizabeth & James

caped crusaderCapes are the new coats and Amen to that!

  • Pierre Balmain
  • Derek Lam
  • Ruffian

sheep

This coming Fall, let shearling rock your world!

  1. Belstaff
  2. Altuzarra
  3. Rebecca Taylor

skirts

Short suits are for Spring 2013. For next Fall, let’s embrace the skirt ones!

  1. Jason Wu
  2. Oscar de la Renta
  3. Proenza Schouler

camel coat

The Camel Coat: The classiest classic is a major trend for the next season.

  1. 3.1 Phillip Lim
  2. Derek Lam
  3. Donna Karan New York

textures galoreAmong a sea of furry patches, velvet panels and sheer inserts, quilted garments take the lead when it comes to Fall 2013 textures.

  1. 3.1 Phillip Lim
  2. Theyskens’ Theory
  3. Elizabeth & James

snowed in

On Winter, White is the new black.

  1. J. Crew
  2. Proenza Schouler
  3. The Row

That’s it for today! Coming up, the best shows from NYFW and all the deets on LFW. Keep checking back!

Sweet kisses…

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis
Image sources:  Style.com, Pinterest,

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

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Spring 2013 Trends: THE GOOD GIRL

the good girl

Good morning, my sweet readers! This is the last post (for now) before we put our Spring Trends guide on hiatus, and you know why… Fashion week is just two days away and our coverage is ready to start! In the meantime, I have a trend that’s cute as a button and dressy as dressy can get. As I kid, I had two favorite cartoons: Babar and Madeline. Little did I know that I would grow up to be the ultimate francophile. When I individuated the Good Girl trend from the Spring 2013 runways, I new I had to go with a grown-up Madeline illustration. I would kill for Madeline’s cape/coat, I might make myself one!

Back to what concerns us today, the good girl trend is very different from the ladylike style. Is has the same vibe, but it’s younger, it’s more playful and of course, flirtier. Flared garments, pussybows, ruffles and golden buttons are all part of the good girl’s closet and even if you have dubbed yourself a tough chick, you can still dress up like a good gal.

WHO DID IT:

  • Marc Jacobs / Victoria Beckham / Carven
  • Sass & Bide / Burberry Prorsum / Giles

MUST-HAVE PIECES: A skater dress or a ruffled hem one. A flared and flirty skirt in a bold color. Polka dot trousers or pants with a soft print. A structured jacket with golden buttons. A pussybow blouse.

good girl sp

  1. Purple jacket, Miu Miu
  2. Flare skirt, Valentino
  3. Pussybow blouse, Miu Miu
  4. Round sunnies, Illesteva
  5. Collar jumper, Dolce & Gabbana
  6. Ruffle hem dress, Kenzo
  7. Dot pants, Rochas
  8. Lace-up shoes, Valas
  9. 1984 handbag, Marc Jacobs
  10. Toe cap pumps, Sergio Rossi

steal goog g

  1. Blouse, Topshop
  2. Shorts, 3.1 Phillip Lim
  3. Cropped jacket, Mango
  4. Sunnies, ASOS
  5. Pleated skirt, Topshop
  6. Navy dress, Romwe
  7. Checked pants, Zara
  8. Tassel loafers, J. Crew
  9. Satchel, TCSC
  10. Toe cap pumps, ASOS

Remember to check back for our Fashion Week Coverage, it kicks off tomorrow!

Sweet kisses…

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis
Image sources:  Net-a-porter, Style.com, Topshop, Polyvore, Farfetch, River Island, Target

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

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Spring 2013 Trends: LADY MELLOW

LADY MELLOW COVERGood morning, my sweet readers! We are just three days away from the start of what will be a glorious fashion month. I’m already whipping up some posts and getting all prepped and ready for Sweet n’Raw’s coverage. In the meantime, I still have a bunch of Spring trends in the oven, sitting there, waiting to be published. While we wait for the Fall collections to walk the runways, we can start lusting after the Spring items that will be joining our closets.

Today I have for you an all-time favorite trend: LADY MELLOW. My affair with pastel colors began after my punk and goth teenage years. I went from being a girl with Che Guevara t-shirts and neck piercings, to being the queen of lace (no, not black and vampy, but sugary and pretty) with a powdery shades obsession. That’s why every time my beloved mint and my baby pink appear on the runway, I get high as a kite. This season, pastels are not the strongest trend but thankfully, they are still around. But the Lady Mellow trend is not only about pastels, it’s about powdery garments, with a ladylike vibe, lots of lace, crepe de chine, volume skirts, picture perfect handbags, sheer and jacquard, and lovey dovey knitwear. Think Betty Draper, when she was more sweet than sour.

WHO DID IT:

  • Peter Som / Rochas / Erdem
  • Christopher Kane / Carolina Herrera / Oscar de la Renta

MUST-HAVE ITEMS: A pretty yellow dress for sunny days. A pair of pastel, tapered shorts. A pink, flirty skirt. A pastel bikini (a girl always has Summer in her  mind) and a bunch of powdery button-downs.

mellow splurge

  1. Printed blouse, Equipment
  2. Tailored shorts, Moschino
  3. Diamond jumper, Carven
  4. Embellished slippers, Dolce & Gabbana
  5. Yellow dress, Rochas
  6. Green sunnies, Stella McCartney
  7. Mint coat, Moschino
  8. Structured bag, Miu Miu
  9. Blush skirt, Alexander McQueen
  10. Lace-up heels, Moschino

LMELLOW STEAL

  1. Pussybow blouse, Topshop
  2. Mint bikini set, Carine Gilson
  3. Texture jumper, Chicnova
  4. Detailed flats, Zara
  5. Jacquard dress, Topshop
  6. Jacquard pants, J. Crew
  7. Vintage sunnies, Leonard Vintage
  8. Heart print skirt, River Island
  9. Shoulder bag, River Island
  10. Toe-cap pumps, ASOS

That’s it of the day! I still have a couple of trends before we unleash the Fashion Week madness, stay tuned!

Sweet kisses…

PS: Sweet n’raw is almost two years old!

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis
Image sources:  Net-a-porter, Style.com, Topshop, Polyvore, Farfetch, River Island, Target

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

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SPRING 2013 TRENDS: A Girl’s Guide to Shoes

decisions

Shoes are the most important part of a girl’s closet, correct me if I’m wrong. We treat our heels and sandals as if they were important pieces in our personal museum (if you don’t, you should). That’s why when we start thinking of a new season, it’s always important to know what to buy and where to buy it. I’ve put together, as part of our Spring 2013 Trend Report, a rather extensive guide of heels, sandals, slippers and wedges you will be needing inside you closet! Are you ready to rumble? Let’s start!

BLACK & BLUSH

It’s monochromatic with a spin, a damn cute spin! One of the strongest trends of the season is definitely the black and white combo. But if you are on the softer side, like me, you can always go for the black and blush version!

SELECTION:

  • T-bar heels, Zara
  • Leather loafers, Reed Krakoff
  • Naked heels, Alexander McQueen
  • Ankle strap sandals, Chloé
  • Ankle booties, Reed Krakoff

mirror, mirror

Metallics are all over for Spring 2013 and what better way to put a glam spin on our ensembles than with a pair of mirrored shoes. And since we are not in the 1950′s anymore, where fashion had its rules and guidelines, why not sport a pair of flashy sandals with your work ensemble?

  • Strappy sandals, Jimmy Choo
  • Mary-jane flats, Miu Miu
  • Gold and mesh sandals, Robert Clergerie
  • Two-tone mid heels, Marni
  • T-strap wedges, ASOS

disco

Thank you Christopher Bailey for unleashing the colorful sheen trend! What we’d give to sport a fabulous, glossy, purple Burberry Prorsum trench coat! But since that’s a little out of our budget (at least mine), we will be embracing this trend with our feet!

  • Naked sandals, ASOS
  • Mirror slippers, Nicholas Kirkwood
  • Snakeskin heels. Stella McCartney
  • Flat sandals, Jimmy Choo
  • Snakeskin pumps, Jimmy Choo

B&W

Of course we had to showcase this trend! And while I’m still not embracing the black and white stripes garments (I’m sure I’ll grow to love them, just not yet), when it comes to shoes, monochromatic sure is my cup of tea! A pair of pumps is the safest way to go, but brogues? Now brogues, brogues are the ultimate dapper twist, the cherry on top the cake!

  • Lace-up pumps, Jason Wu
  • Creepers, Alexander McQueen
  • Ankle strap sandals, Nicholas Kirkwood
  • Oxford shoes, Reed Krakoff
  • Two-tone pumps, 3.1 Phillip Lim

MINI-HEEL

The sandal with the barely there heel might have been a geek thing years ago, this season, it’s the new black! You can go for the mini wedge or the square heel, or both! The more the merrier!

  • Scalloped sandals, Lanvin
  • Red sandals, Maison Martin Margiela
  • Two-tone wedges, Pierre Hardy
  • Golden heel sandals, Marni
  • Bow wedges, Valentino

pastel pump

Sadly for me (and all those powdery lovers out there), pastels are not as big as they were last Spring when it comes to the clothing department. Thankfully, when it comes to accessories, specially shoes, they are a must-have! The staple? A pretty and perfect pair of pastel pumps!

  • Apple pumps, Rupert Sanderson
  • Baby pink heels, Miu Miu
  • Studded heels, Valentino
  • Bow pumps, Bottega Veneta
  • Two tone Pigalle, Christian Louboutin

cutouts

Bondage is really happening this Spring (and no, it’s got nothing to do with Fifty Shades of Shit) and in an S&M sea of leather, slits and harnesses, we can also find the cutout heels. No, I’m not talking about latex, lace-up, tranny boots, but chic and somewhat racy heeled sandals.

  • Black wedges, Christian Louboutin
  • Nude cutouts, Alaia
  • Two-tone sandals, Tory Burch
  • White heels, Oscar de la Renta
  • Black sandals, Zara

SPOTTY

Leopard print is not considered a trend anymore, it’s a regular. It’s funny how I’m always drawn to it every time I’m shoe shopping! I’m sure I’m not the only one out the with the animal print syndrome. For this Spring, lace-up sandals are the way to go and kitten heels (kitten heels just keep getting better and better).

  • Pumps, Mulberry
  • Kitty flats, Charlotte Olympia
  • Lace-up sandals, Zara
  • Slingbacks, Zara
  • Leopard espadrilles, Brian Atwood

PRINCESSY

Ah, the beauty of embellishments! This season, screw Cinderella! Score a pair of bejeweled and sparkly shoes to feel like the princess you truly are. My advice? Match them to prints and textures for a fun twist. Remember, more is more!

  • Blue sandals, Gucci
  • Sparkly pumps, Zara
  • Rhinestone pumps, Moschino
  • T-bar pumps, Mulberry
  • Platform sandals, Lanvin

gatsby

We have been patiently waiting for Baz Lhurmann’s The Great Gatsby. Our anxiety grows and grows with all those Miuccia Prada sketches, the trailers and the teasers, and of course, the fashion. This will be a movie that will unleash a bunch of trends, and shoes are one of them.

  • T-bar heels, Robert Clergerie
  • Deco sandals, Jimmy Choo
  • Stripe sandals, Saint Laurent
  • Gold heel sandals, Zara
  • T-bar nude pumps, Asos

crystal

Leave it to fashion to turn clear PVC into a must-have! Clear heels used to be for those girls who work the pole at Uncle Jim’s Boobie Bungalow, but not anymore! If you are not keen on the plastic shoe, but you still wanna embrace the trend, get a pair of shoes with an acrylic heel.

  • Happy pumps, Sophia Webster
  • Red pumps, Gianvito Rossi
  • Bow sandals, Nicholas Kirkwood
  • White ankle straps, Manolo Blahnik
  • Acrylic heels, ASOS

gladiator

Last but not least, the sexiest and boldest trend of the bunch (and a personal favorite): the new gladiators! High heeled, flat, with laces, your choice! The key? Go as tall as tall can get. Your thigh is the limit!

  • Black, Jimmy Choo
  • Two-tone, Bionda Castana
  • Flat, Grey Mer
  • Lace-up, Aquazzura

Ready to go shoe shopping for the coming season? Now you know what to get! Ready for Fashion Week? I’m already working on it!

Sweet kisses…

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis
Image sources:  Net-a-porter, My Theresa, Zara, Polyvore, Farfetch

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

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Spring 2013 Trends: EMERALD CITY

emerald coverGood morning, my sweet readers! Another day, another post! We are picking up right where we left off, in the middle of our Spring 2013 guide. So far, we’ve had textures and prints galore, it’s only fair that we move on to the IT colors of the season. Last year, Pantone dubbed Tangerine the shade of the year. For this 2013, it’s all about Emerald (there’s even a Wizard of Oz movie coming out soon). Emerald is a color that can flatter almost any skin complexion. It’s a strong hue, with lots of personality and it’s sexy too, just ask a couple of fellas.

The Spring 2013 shows were packed with many shades of green (from mint and sea foam, to teal and grass, it’s gonna bee a green, green season), but it’s Emerald the one that takes the center stage. So like my favorite Batman villain, the one and only, Poison Ivy, let’s embrace it and start shopping!

WHO DID IT:

  • Acne / Burberry Prorsum / Ralph Lauren
  • Jonathan Saunders / Dolce & Gabbana / Vera Wang

MUST-HAVE PIECES: The emerald dress is a staple in a girl’s closet. An emerald maxi skirt, you’ll thank me later for this one. A pair of emerald tapered trousers, ideal for color-blocking duties. Sandals, give your sexy feet a punch of color with a pair of Emerald heels.

emerald splurge

  1. Top, Halston Heritage
  2. Shorts, Valentino
  3. Jumper, Girl by Band of Outsiders
  4. Oxfords, Eley Kishimoto
  5. Sunglasses, Linda Farrow
  6. Jacket, Dsquared
  7. Dress, Valentino
  8. Pants, J. Crew
  9. Tote, Jil Sander
  10. Sandals, Pierre Hardy

EMERALD STEAL

  1. Shirt, Romwe
  2. Skirt, Monki
  3. Jumper, H&M
  4. Slippers, Zara
  5. Sunnies, Ray-ban
  6. Dress, P.A.R.O.S.H.
  7. Trousers, John Lewis
  8. Bikini, Heidi Klein
  9. Satchel, The Cambridge Satchel Co.
  10. Sandals, Steven by Steve Madden

That’s it for the day! I’ll be back tomorrow with more trends and more fashion!

Sweet kisses…

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis
Image sources:  Net-a-porter, Style.com, Topshop, Polyvore, Farfetch, River Island, Target

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

1 Comment

Filed under SPRING 2013