The Boots I Hate to Love

Photo Courtesy of The Style File

I hate to love over-the-knee boots but they are a strong mix of cozy and glamorous with a dash of toughness thrown in for good measure. The problem, you see, is that finding over-the-knee boots that didn’t completely consume the entirety of my lower body was quite a challenge. The wrong length made my stature seem even smaller than it truly is. When you are short like I am this is a major problem. Over-the-knee boots are widely believed to be flattering because they make the legs look longer and thinner; however, when you are short it is impractical to wear a boot the length of which is more than half of your height. There is a certain level of discomfort associated with it. I know I am not alone in my perception based on the numerous fashion experts that reference this conundrum.

I wish there were over-the-knee-boots that could somehow be converted into the perfect leg length for petite frames. Can someone please invent a pair? Handbag designers have created a multitude of shoulder bags that easily convert into clutch bags so why can’t shoe designers invent over-the-knee boots that have the same magical quality? Boots that scrunch don’t fit the bill because they can look even more ridiculous on the height-challenged. Based on several boot fittings, self-reflection, patience and the discovery of several styling tricks, I have determined that over-the-knee boots can be flattering to the height-challenged. This has certainly made it easier to quickly identify thigh-high boots that meet the necessary style specifications.

It is widely acknowledged that most designers create trendy garments for women whom are of above-average height and slimmer in figure than the average woman. This same philosophy applies to over-the-knee boots; however, the phrase, “If you can’t be them, join them”, could not be more apropos. I am proud that I refused to be left out of the fashion craze due to my short stature. Over-the-knee boots, after all, have been on the fall trend list for the past few years. They are also the most hyped boot type of the season; therefore, there was no way I was going to be dissuaded from adding them to my wardrobe.

Thigh-high boots have even triumphed over booties this season in the popularity contest. for two reasons: Derek Lam and Phillip Lim. Mr. Lam created a fashion uproar with his creation of one of the arguably most elegant thigh-high boots seen in many years with the premiere of his 10 Crosby Loden boot. Mr. Lim, his equally stellar peer, was equal to the thigh-high boots’ challenge with his debut of the Ora boot for his 3.1 Phillip Lim line. Both boots are super popular amongst the affluent crowd. I only wish I could afford to own a pair from either designer.

Derek Lam 10 Crosby Loden Boot, www.neimanmarcus.com

3.1 Phillip Lim Ora Runway Buckle-Back Boots, www.neimanmarcus.com

I will be posting, within the next two days, a list of my over-the-knee boot styling tips and a list of budget-friendly over-the knee boots similar in style to those by Derek Lam and Phillip Lim.

Related Stories:

Woman.TV, How to Wear the Most Trendy Boots of the Season

The Zoe Report, How to Wear Over-The-Knee Boots

Refinery 29, How to Wear Over-The-Knee Boots 2013

In-vest in Faux-Fur - My Picks

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Faux-fur vests pair well with so many pieces that they are a definite statement piece. I have selected a few of my favorites that will incorporate easily into your wardrobe whether you are going for a downtown vibe, high society look or a casual hipster appearance.

I hope you enjoy my picks.



Tips for Styling a Faux-Fur Vest:

• Faux-fur adds glamour to a rugged look. Pair it with a plaid-tartan shirt and cargo pants for an unexpectedly chic look.
• Pair a faux-fur vest with a cocktail dress for your next holiday party. It will further elevate a party look.
• Layer a faux-fur vest over a basic coat, jacket or blazer to add a luxe accent to your outwear pieces.
• Match a faux-fur vest with a shirt-dress and boots for an elegant work-wear outfit.

Related story: A Fashion Crowd, In-vest in Faux-Fur

In-vest in Faux Fur

Photo Courtesy of Nothing To Wear Showroom

I purchased my first faux-fur vest about two years ago I, therefore, consider myself a relatively new fan of this piece. Why did I wait so long to add this multi-functional piece to my wardrobe? I was of the misguided opinion that a faux-fur vest was not a good investment piece. I considered them to be too ostentatious to incorporate into my work wardrobe and too overwhelming for my petite frame. Although, they are consistently a fall and winter fixture there was no persuading me that they could become a wardrobe staple. I continued to bypass them in boutiques and emphatically make the following statements to those in my social sphere: “Where would I wear a faux-fur vest?”, “Why would I wear a faux-fur vest?”, “When would I wear a faux-fur vest?” After two years and endless outfit pairings I have become a convert. I am not a fan of fall or winter; therefore, believe me when I state, “One of the best things about fall and winter in the mid-west is that I get to my wear my faux-fur vests.”

The list of clothing and accessories that can be paired with faux-fur is endless. A faux-fur vest brings instant glamour to any outfit which makes it such an appealing garment. A faux-fur vest also elevates an ensemble while incorporating an extra layer of warmth on cold days. It is commonly the stand-out piece when combined with jeans, corduroys, sweaters and tees because it makes the most basic outfit stand-out which somehow makes it like a magic elixir that I, along with many others, reach for over and over again. If you have a faux-fur vest flaunt it this season. Please don’t let in languish in the back of your closet.

If you yearn to try this trend, just go for it. I look back now and wonder why I waited so long. Faux-fur vests come in a variety of lengths from cropped to hip-length. As a result, finding a vest that best fits your frame and height has never been easier. Furthermore, the quality of the material that comprises a faux-fur vest has improved tremendously over the past few years. Top quality faux-fur vests are, as a result, readily available at budget-friendly stores.

Follow me on Google Plus or Facebook for fashion tips. I will be providing, within the next couple of days, a list of fashion-forward ways to wear faux-fur vests as well as a shopping guide of where to buy the most fashionable and affordable vests.

Related Stories:

Miss Renaaye, Let's Talk Fashion: Styling Your Faux-Fur

Sequins and Things, Faux Fur Fun

To be Bright Style, Furreal Faux

Diary of a Fashion Apps Junkie

Photo Courtesy of Refinery 29

Do you have a constant need to know which boutique has that sweater or bag on your wish list at the lowest price? There are apps for that. Are you interested in viewing as many runway-show preparations, as possible, during Fashion Weeks? There are apps for that too. If this describes you then it is possible you are a fashion app junkie. You are not alone. I recognize the signs because I was a fashion apps’ junkie too. Be grateful if this does not describe you. Keeping track of the daily activities on the fashion apps installed on my mobile devices was exhausting. I came to the realization that as much as I love fashion it was best to limit the number of apps I referenced on a daily basis.

I love that fashion apps keep me abreast of the latest fashion news, the best sample sales and that they give me instant access to astounding runway footage but there is just so much information I can absorb in a day. My solution was to determine which fashion apps are the best fit for me based on my fashion priorities. I concluded, after much consideration that I only needed instant access to a couple of fashion publication apps, a few shopping apps and one or two fashion community apps.

I read consumer reviews for a variety of fashion apps that met my guidelines and finally whittled the list down to quality apps that met my priorities. My resolve resulted in a more manageable compilation of apps than I previously possessed and the retention of my sanity.

I initially missed the rush I previously felt as a result of checking a larger number of fashion apps throughout the day; however, after a few weeks I had adjusted to my new routine. Ironically, I peruse my roster of fashion publication apps to keep myself apprised of the latest and greatest sample sale apps. I am also a fan of multiple blogs that include features on fashion technology. I, periodically, revise my rotation of fashion apps based on blogger reviews of the newest apps.

Below, and in no particular order, are several favorite fashion sites with apps that I composed a few days ago. I have now compiled the list in its entirety. I invite you to please add your own favorites to my Listly list by clicking on the fashion apps link. I am always looking to explore new sites and others, including myself, could benefit from your personal experience with additional sites.

1. Rue La La
2. My Habit
3. Haute Look
4. Gilt Groupe

Related Stories:

Fashionista, Victoria Beckham Gets Sewing, L'Wren Scott Launches App

The Guardian, How Fashion Apps Are Looking Forward on iPhone, iPad and Android

Please follow me on Google Plus at http://www.plus.google.com/SharonPate or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/farfetchedbysp for fashion tips or to submit your fashion questions.

Favorite Fashion Apps

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Bloom This Winter - Floral Print Clothing

A Wake-Up Call for Fashion

Pieces from Isabel Marant's H & M Collection; Photo Courtesy of Refinery 29

I experienced déjà vu when I learned that Isabel Marant’s collection for H & M had sold out within a few hours of the store opening. This occurred in spite of the store’s policy to limit buyers to no more than four articles of clothing and/or accessories. The collaboration between luxury fashion designers and discount stores is a golden partnership for both but how beneficial is it for consumers? There continues to be high demand for and extreme anticipation for fashion collaborations of this nature. The media frenzy that results from the announced collaborations and the subsequent buyout of all of the clothes and accessories on the launch date certainly proves this type of partnership has staying power; however, I get the feeling that the excitement is wearing off for many fashion enthusiasts such as myself. What has caused the enthusiasm to deflate?

The clothes and accessories sell out usually within a few hours of the time the merchandise makes it on the sales floor. It is similar to what happens soon after Apple stores open their doors for customers to purchase the newest gadget. It is also reminiscent of what happens on Black Friday at major department stores when the first 500 customers receive a free necklace or gift card. Stand in line and you may still miss out. Get up at 5:00 a.m. just to be the first in line for something I may miss out on anyway? I don’t think so. Don’t get me wrong; if this is how you roll you have all of my felicitations. I may be somewhat jaded because I have been there and done that without much success. It all started a few years ago when Zac Posen and Target announced their collaboration. I was super-energized and prepared to be the first to get a certain Zac Posen blue tuxedo jacket I had my eye on; however, it was not meant to be. None of the pieces were left at the store by the time I arrived. I summoned up the energy after my major disappointment to go online but my size was sold out. This resulted in a double dose of disappointment.

If I had been successful at being truly amongst the first customers to receive an article of clothing from Zac Posen’s collection for Target maybe I would still be consistently fired up to make the trek to the store or to power up my computer. It wasn’t meant to be and that is fine with me now. After all, I can still shop eBay or Vaunte in the hope that a few of the pieces will end up on what I call the cyber rack. Oh wait, as I type the eBay and Vaunte racks are already empty.

Do you still get excited upon the announcement of designer and store collaborations? What is your strategy for scoring items before they sell out?

I would love to hear from you.

Please follow me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/farfetchedbysp or on Google Plus at www.plus.google.com/SharonPate for fashion tips.

Related Stories:

Fashionista, How Isabel Marant's H & M Collaboration Raised the Designer's Profile

Refinery 29, Shop Isabel Marant X H & M Without the 4 A.M. Wake-up Call

Because I'm Addicted, Isabel Marant Pour H & M 4 Ways

A Collar-ful Shirt

Iconic Actress Rita Hayworth in Gilda, 1946

Once women began wearing oxford shirts with collars in the 1940s there was no turning back; especially, once film stars such as the great Bette Davis and Rita Hayworth, began wearing them in such earnest. I believe shirts with collars remain just as popular today because of the fantastic way they are able to pair so effortlessly with most other garments. Fashion designers have taken the oxford shirt to the next level by covering the collar with all types of bling.

Shirts with collars embellished with sequins, studs, crystals and an abundance of other fabulous baubles are everywhere these days. It is effortless to incorporate shirts with embellished collars into your existing wardrobe. This type of shirt can be worn to the office and to any after-work event which makes it so versatile. An embellished-collar shirt worn with a classic-style gray, navy or black blazer and straight-leg trousers can add pizzazz to a routine outfit. This type of shirt adds an element of elegance to an outfit that would otherwise be considered humdrum. This makes it a superb article of clothing to pair with a simple crew-neck or v-neck sweater and trousers or a skirt. An embellished-collar shirt is also the perfect fit for days where you struggle to find the right outfit for work because you hit the snooze button on your alarm too many times. You don't even have to search for a necklace or earrings to wear with your outfit. This type of shirt is a statement piece.

Often wearing articles of clothing that represent more than one trend is considered a fashion don't; however, the marriage of peter-pan and embellished collars is a match made in heaven. Shirts with peter-pan collars consistently have a consistent level of recycled popularity in the fashion industry; however, embellished-collar shirts have never been more popular then they are now. Designers have cleverly combined the two collar styles to create a fashion gold mine. A shirt with a peter-pan collar suddenly becomes more visually interesting when it is embellished with lace, gems, studs or sequins.

Tips:

Do:

• Limit the addition of jewelry to your outfit. Earrings can be complimentary, depending upon the style, but a necklace is overkill.

•  Pair the shirt with a sweater, cardigan or jacket to get the most use out of this investment piece.

Interested In Doing It Yourself? Please reference the sources below for do it yourself tips:

Coast to Coast Central DIY: Embellished Collars
It's Always Autumn The Easy Tee: DIY Peter Pan Collar with Free Pattern

What do you think about embellished-collar shirts? Comments are always welcome.

Shop the Trend:

Dark Dancer Crop Blouse, Nastygal

BCX Sheer Blouse, Macys

Vince Camuto Blouse, Nordstrom

The Top Half

Photo Courtesy of a17n6awi

I am not a fan of crop tops but I have come to appreciate their appeal. I know that seems like a misnomer but I truly understand the attraction. Maybe I have just been worn down by the constant stream of crop tops I see in fashion magazines, on the sites of online boutiques and worn by hipster celebrities such as Rihanna. I have been defeated by the crop top mentality that currently exists and that’s alright with me. I have come to appreciate that they can look totally glam if paired with the right pieces and, of course, worn at the appropriate venue. I have a few regrets about statements I made about crop tops in the past which consisted of the reason anyone would willingly bare their midriff outside of the pool, beach or gym. I have now come to realize that my initial dislike for crop tops was based on the thought of how vulnerable I would feel if I bared my midriff in public. I have come to understand that just because I am weary of exposing that particular body part in public, I don’t have to make my level of discomfort with the crop top prevent me from celebrating it for what it is: An example of feminine liberation. It represents to me the freedom we now have as women to wear what we choose without the restrictions that women who came before us had to endure.

I originally believed crop tops were a fad that would disappear just as quickly as they rose to popularity. I perceived crop tops as a 1980s retread that would quickly fade away in popularity as new fashion trends came on the horizon. Imagine my disappointment when I was proven wrong. Perhaps, that disappointment is another reason I was so resistant to the endurance of crop tops. I believe crop tops continue to remain culturally relevant because there is a fondness associated with them that evolved from their 1980s debut. The lead character in 1983’s Flashdance, Alexander Owens, danced her heart out in her leotard and tights but crop tops were frequently her garment of choice. Madonna also routinely rocked her crop tops during the same time frame. Check out or revisit a few of her 1980s music videos or concert footage.

Tips:

• Pair crop tops with high-waist pants and skirts to highlight your figure at its best. An added benefit is that your legs will appear to be longer. This is particularly important if you are petite.

•   A crop top is a great layering piece. If you don’t want to bare your midriff but you enjoy the look of crop-tops try layering your crop top over a tank or t-shirt in a contrasting, yet complementary, color or print. Try pairing a solid-colored crop-top over a sequined tank for example or over an animal or polka dot print tank or-shirt.

Shop the Trend:

Olivia Crop Top, Alloy Apparel

Lights Out Crop Top, Living Royal

Rapture Crop top, Nastygal

Related Stories:
Manrepeller: Dissecting the Crop Top
Why of Fashion: How to Wear Crop Tops 

VQK44X6XSAU5

Best Mod Duo

Black and white are strong shades that everyone has an opinion about. Consider the number of occasions that you have been asked which of the two shades you prefer. There is no need, if you like both shades equally, to choose between the two this fall. The two shades are paired together on single garments or in ensembles as if one can not exist without the other. The epic mixture of both shades consistently results in a graphic visual that reins supremely above and beyond any other color combinations. The two shades, as a consequence, are regularly viewed as the epitome of class and glamour. A multitude of black and white patterns and prints reign this fall in designer wear. Black and white prints and patterns are historically enduring because of the impressive impact of the two shades. The pairing computations for the two shades are endless as demonstrated by the following prints and patterns: houndstooth, ethnic, floral, striped and graphic-mod

The black and white graphic, mod print made a grand cultural entrance in Great Britain in the 1ate 1950s and was widely embraced by the young population for the next decade. This print subsequently exploded rather quickly into the global fashion scene. Each time this graphic print returned it was modernized based on the current culture. In the 1960s, Read more at ...

Fashion on Wheels

        

    Fashion caravans, launched originally by entrepreneurs on the west and east coasts, have finally made their way to our region. Local fashion trucks, such as Rack + Clutch and Mystique Boutique, have added a refreshing vibe to the fashion scene in our region. Entrepreneurs whom elect to launch mobile boutiques are rapidly able to build their customer base as a result of traveling to where their customers work and socialize. The ease in which a fashion truck can be prepped for business events, fairs and festivals ensures a mobile boutique is well prepared to meet the wardrobe desires of patrons.

Rack + Clutch, a mobile boutique founded in April by Emily Ponath, sells on-trend clothing, accessories, handbags and jewelry by both commercial and independent designers. Emily is a talented curator of affordable chic apparel based on the broad selection of merchandise in her boutique. Her keen knack for selecting unique apparel was apparent during my visit to the boutique on August 7. I was particularly impressed with the boutique’s collection of charming budget-friendly jewelry. New merchandise arrives on a frequent basis at the boutique. Emily and her staff use social media to make fans of the boutique aware of the arrival of new merchandise. Rack + Clutch travels to corporations, restaurants and festivals in St. Charles and St. Louis. Rack + Clutch will be at the forthcoming Lou Fest and at the Big Muddy Blues Festival......Read More

Studded and Spiked Steppers

Don't be intimidated by their over-the-top appearance. Shoes completely embellished with studs or spikes do not have to be solely categorized as grandiose footwear. The currently trendy, heel-less shoes, covered entirely with studs or spikes should be paired with a garment that is classic yet trendy, such as a high-low dress, to soften their undeniable in-your-face impact. Accompanying stud-or spike-embellished heel-less shoes, with the femininity of a high-low dress, will gently tone down the toughness of these shoes while the high, front hemline of the dress will ensure the shoes receive the attention they deserve.

Celine Studded Spike Shoe, Amazon, www.amazon.com, $69.99

Alternative garments to pair with studded or spiked heel-less shoes are a pair of shorts in a soft fabric such as silk or lace, an upscale T-shirt, tank or a romper-play-suit. The shoe will remain in the limelight, as it deserves, while being added as an accoutrement to classic wardrobe pieces. If the selected romper-play suit does not have a belt, add a belt to the waist to enhance an hourglass figure or to create a waistline if you have a slimmer figure.

Obi Suede Belt from Mango, www.mango.com, $15

Diamante-Embellished Neckline Play-suit,

 Topshop, $100

Stud- or spike-embellished shoes can be seamlessly paired with office attire if the studs are used more as trimming on the shoes or on a single part of the shoes. An a-line skirt, flattering to most types of figures, matched with a blouse can look superb with stud-embellished shoes. Refrain from pairing the shoes with a skirt and blouse that is overly-embellished. Keep either the skirt or blouse simple. Excessive embellishment on your garments along with the stud- or spike-embellished shoes can be overpowering. It is recommended that you save shoes entirely embellished with studs or spikes for non-business attire if you do not work in an industry that permits more trendy attire to be worn in the office.

Studded Hotpot Sandals, Asos,  www.asos.com, $76.37

Jeffrey Campbell is a master of stud- and spike-embellished shoes. He continues to use his mastery of shoe craft to make more awe-inspiring shoes season after season. Jeffrey Campbell’s creations, unless on sale, may not, however, be budget-friendly. Several boutiques, such as Free People (www.freepeople.com), sometimes have affordable Jeffrey Campbell shoes in stock. Budget-friendly stud-embellished shoes, are available at the following boutiques. In addition, stud-embellished shoes at the following boutiques consists of both traditional and edgy shoe styles depending upon your preference:

1. Forever 21 (www.forever21.com)
2. Mango (www.mango.com)
3. Zara (www.zara.com)

Additional Outfit ideas for stud-embellished shoes:

1. Paired with tuxedo pants and a white blouse or camisole, a stud-embellished shoe can add extra dash and edginess to your outfit.
2.  Stud-embellished shoes paired with skinny jeans and a faux-leather peplum top is a glamorous combination.

   

   Levi's Boyfriend Jeans, Levi's. www.us.levi.com/shop, $88



Isabel Lu Faux Leather Peplum Top, Ambience, www.shopambience.com, $88

3. A graphic T-shirt, blazer or leather jacket paired with a skirt and stud-embellished shoes is always a chic wardrobe choice.