How to Dress Up Basic Black - Look #4

Look #4 Girl About Town, Part II

Black Blazer + Oxford Blue Collared Shirt + Black Leather-esque Leggings + Go Jane Black Shearling Boots + + Gold Evening Bag + Dots Tassle Necklace + Vintage Earrings

I don't know what it is with me and leather like fabrications these days, but I am really loving them.  Perhaps this is my way of forcing fall? Anyway, today's look is all about the small details that make it special.

The Black Blazer
I've said this a million times...a black blazer is your BEST friend.  Fabrice can't understand why I have so many, but they are all very different.  This one in particular is double breasted with fabulous black and gold crest buttons that make it extra special. The buttons give it a classic edge, and provide a little extra polish and sassy sophistication.  Thrown over this basic oxford blue collared shirt and black leggings, this blazer makes this outfit perfect for those days when you're running around town and you want to be comfortable, but you've got that lunch meeting, or dinner plans and you won't have time to stop home and change.

The Leather Leggings
I know, I know, I wore the leather cutout leggings last time. but again if you're talking about dressing up basic black, opting for textured leggings is always an easy go-to item.  They are automatically sexier and dressier than regular black leggings.  In this case, pairing them with a menswear inspired shirt, and a classic black blazer the sex appeal is not overkill and they've easily been transformed to day wear. The funky gold zippers at the ankle also complement the buttons and the gold evening bag for an all around cohesive look.

LOL at myself! I did this pose jokingly.  It's a pretty standard model pose, right? Fabrice totally laughed at me.  He pretty much thinks I'm crazy!

The Boots!!!
Well, I finally got my new boots and I pretty much love them. Olivia, they are very cute and comfortable.  For $30, the quality isn't bad at all.  I'd buy shoes from Go Jane again...especially trendy shoes that I am not looking to keep for the rest of my life anyway.

As far as how the boots contribute to the overall look.  Well, first of all they are right on trend for fall.  Pairing your more classic pieces with trendier items is a great way to add a little personality to your look. The boots are also on the casual, rugged side with the combat sole and shearling around the ankle. Like the oxford shirt and blazer, these little details are also working to ground the sexy leathery leggings for day, but the 4" heel is keeping the look feminine and edgy.

The Accessories
I kept the accessories pretty simple with the vintage gold and crystal earrings. They are classic glam, and perfect for this ensemble. Because I wanted to wear the gold evening bag for extra glam appeal, I opted for my pewter tassel necklace instead of a gold necklace. I know that many people are scared to mix metals, but in this case it works because it's not gold and silver.  The pewter almost falls into the background as a non-metal in this look

So, I've got one final black look tomorrow.  The black pencil skirt. Believe it or not, I have no idea how I'm gonna work that one. This series has been a good challenge for me because my style of dress is relatively casual.  I don't go to formal events and I don't dress up for work. I have the pieces to put together nice outfits, but dressy for me is probably still casual for most. So tomorrow, for the pencil skirt ensemble, I plan to really dress it up a bit. When my friend asked me to do this series, I know that she meant how do you dress up simple black for every day wear. In other words, how do you get out of the black jeans/leggings + a cute top routine and I am hoping that she got a lot of good ideas, and of course I hope you did, too!

What exactly are my legs doing here? hmmmmm

This picture was super blurry, but I loved the way it looked. Almost looks like we did that on purpose.

Unrelated Blogger Question: I bought a domain name...yay!!! but I am scared to switch over because I don't want to lose my Feedburner subscribers.  I know that Blogger is going to keep my old 'ifeluvsu.blogspot.com' link active and simply redirect to my new URL, but what about those who subscribe via Feedburner. Will the feed be broken if I switch?  Has anyone done this before?

Thanks for stopping by!!!

How to Dress Up Basic Black - Look #3

Look #3 Girl About Town (Black & Tan)

featuring.

H&M Leather Cut-out Leggings + Black Skirt Worn as a Tunic + Tan Swing Coat + Mossimo Black Suede "Karensa" Pumps ($29.99) + Dots Tassle Necklace

It's funny, I can clearly remember when leggings came back on the scene back around 2006, and I remember thinking to myself... Seriously? Stretch pants are back? NO THANKS!  Of course, I should have known better because sure enough, they have become an absolute essential for my wardrobe all year long! Of course, I started out with plain black leggings, but nowadays there are plethora of fabulous legging options out there...one of which is the leather legging! Last fall American Apparel's Liquid Leggings hit the scene and we all went wild.  This season, we are revisiting the leather legging trend in a whole new way... with leather cutouts! These leather cut-out leggings from H&M were only $19.95, and they are a GREAT way to 1) jazz up your black legging based ensembles and 2) add leather pants to your wardrobe this fall without breaking the bank! and the best part is you still get the comfort and versatility of your good old faithful leggings. Can't beat that!

Now, In addition to swapping out my regular black leggings for the leather cut-out version, I also topped off my all black ensemble with a tan-ish swing style coat. and viola! I am ready to hit the town.  Investing in  a few statement jackets/coats in neutral colors is definitely a sure fire way to maximize your wardrobe. I went the fancy route with the leather leggings and flowy tunic, but this jacket would have looked pretty jazzy over plain black leggings and black t-shirt, too.

 So, to recap the key elements of this look:

1. Choose statement black pieces.  All black ensembles are almost always chic by default (I said almost), so have fun with it!  Play with shapes, and textures... mix and match....go crazy!
2. Top off basic black pieces with a statement jacket/coat in another neutral but contrasting color.

So, I have to apologize in advance for the picture overload today, but I finally feel like I got my picture taking mojo back.  Thank the LORD!!! I have been hating my pictures lately... partially because they have all been taken in doors at night but I got my lazy buns up at lunch and got dressed....and I am VERY happy with the results! :)

I am absolutely in LOVE with all the gorgeous greenery here in ATL...

Thanks for stopping by!!!

How to Dress Up Basic Black - Look #2

Look # 2 - Casual Business Lunch

featuring.

Anne Klein Pinstripe Blazer + Silk Camisole + Old Navy Black Jegging + Forever 21 Red Clutch + Steve Madden Suede Red Pumps + Forever 21 Necklace + H&M Bangle

If you don't own a pair of black jeans, you MUST got out and get a pair ASAP. They are essential to a casually chic wardrobe! Okay, maybe that was a little dramatic, but they really are great to have on hand for occasions where jeans are appropriate but you want to look a tad bit dressed up and polished. I actually own several pair -- a few skinnies, and one bootcut pair. I actually wish I had taken some pics with the bootcut pair as well.  Anyway, the key to this look is mixing dressy and casual separates, and there are several elements about each piece that makes the whole look work really well together.

1. The Blazer - Unlike the ever popular, over sized boyfriend blazers that have been ruling the fashion world for the past few seasons this jacket actually belongs to a very classic, tailored suit (one of three that I used for interviewing after college).  Tailored pieces will always provide just the right amount of polish to any of your casual pieces.
   
   I chose a pinstriped blazer instead of a sold black version to break up the black a little bit.  Playing with patterns and textures is always a great way to add a little depth to an all black ensemble. Shadow stripes would also be a great alternative here.
   
2. The Cami - Silk camis are always a quick and easy, no fuss way to add a little femininity against menswear pieces like a tailored blazer.  This one is great because it has a flattering empire waist and it is long and floats around the hips under the jacket.  The addition of the silk cami was is another great way to add a little depth by way of texture.
   
3. The Red Accessories - This look could have very easily been paired with black shoes and a black bag, and this option might be more appropriate for those of you who are more conservative, but opting for red accessories adds a little unexpected edge that I love.

Thanks for stopping by!!!

How To Dress Up Basic Black - Look #1

Earlier this week, one of my good friends sent me a tweet requesting that I do a post about how to dress up simple black. Well Miss Aja, here you go! For the next few days, I will show you a few looks using a few basic black pieces from my wardrobe:

1. Black Maxi Dress
2. Black Jeans
3. Black Leggings
4. Black Silk Camisole
5. Black Blazer
6. Black Skirt Suit

Look #1 - Lunch Date

H&M Black Maxi Dress + LOFT Floral Scarf + LOFT Clutch + Nine West Strappy Sandals + Dots Tassle Necklace

It doesn't get any more basic than this racer back jersey knit black maxi.  It literally feels like a night gown.  The great thing about a simple black dress is that it is a blank canvas for colorful and fun accessories!  Have fun with it! The pretty floral scarf and lady like clutch instantly gives this dress an elegant look that's perfect for so many occasions.  Isn't this look perfect for a lunch date, or dinner with the girls?  Swap out the heels for flat sandals and you've got a chic look that's perfect for running around town, too!

Can't wait to show you guys look #2 tomorrow!

Thanks for stopping by!!!

Black & Denim (You Know What That Means)

If you've been a reader of my blog for a while now, then you already know what black & denim means but for you know readers out there black and denim is my ultimate fail safe.  Black & denim is a clear indicator that I went to WAR with my closet this morning.  Black & denim is the epitome of effortless chic.  Some girls have an LBD, I have a collection of LBS's (Little.Black.Shirts.) I discovered black & denim as my go-to look when I was in college.  I attended class in the morning and in the evening , and worked during the day but I still managed to go out with my friends several times a week.  The problem was I got home later than all the other girls most of the time, so I'd have to get dressed super fast or get left behind. So, black and denim became a go-to look for me, and it is still a look that I reach for when all else fails.

The thing about black & denim that is so great is it's versatility.  For me denim usually means jeans, but it could also mean a denim skirt, or denim shorts (cut offs have been all the rage this summer!)  But even in the jeans category you have so many options -- wide-leg jeans, high-waisted jeans, skinny jeans, boyfriend jeans, embellished jeans...okay, I know you guys don't need a jeans rundown, but I'm just saying the possibilities are endless.  Add in some fabulous accessories and the outfit options are also endless.  One of my favorite looks is black & denim with red stilletos for a pop of color.  It is simple, chic, and SEXY!!!

So today's outfit is a very simple black and denim ensemble, but there are a few special details that I want to point out....

The Jeans: I am ashamed to say that these are the first pair of jeans that I've ever had tailored. I know, I know...and I call myself a fashionista.  I have just always refused to buy jeans that didn't fit perfectly through the thighs, hips, and waist as-is..  Since most jeans have a little bit of spandex in them nowadays, I've been able to get away with it.  That is until I encountered these bad boys.  I loved them... they have the most perfect flared leg, and a gorgeous wash, BUT they have ZERO span...ZERO!!! This meant that that my "normal size" fit perfectly in the waist but were way too tight in the hips and thighs.  But of course, when I tried the next size up they fit perfectly through the hips and thighs but they were doing that god awful gaping thing in back.  Now, I am one of those complicated people who likes belts for fashion, but hates them for function.  I don't like the idea of be forced to wear a belt if it doesn't go with the outfit...i.e. anytime you are wearing a longer fitted shirt.  I realize I am not the only woman out there who has this problem and there are a ton of products out there that offer temporary, adjustable, solutions to issues like this such as Adjust-a-Button, Perfect Fit Button and Invisibelt.  But, I have never really considered using any of these products either.  My mantra was if the jeans don't fit perfectly as is, they just aren't for me.  Tisk, tisk, tisk, I have probably missed out on so many great pairs of jeans! Anyway, I was reading an article on Glamour.com about denim dilemmas and as I scanned through the comments, I came across this...

"Okay.... that belt is about as invisible as those "invisible" bra straps. It looks so tacky I can't even stomach it. Just spend the extra $30 to get the waist nipped in and the length hemmed properly. Please."

Now, this is not to say that I agree with her opinion of the invisibelt.  I actually really want to get the Invisibelt! I personally think these DIY fixes are great alternative to tailoring, especially if you need the jeans NOW don't have time for a trip to the tailor. But this readers comments did make me think to myself... "Eboni, with all the money you spend on clothes, you can't spend an extra few bucks to get a pair of jeans tailored?"  And so, with that I was inspired to go ahead and buy these jeans and get the waist taken in and I have to tell you that I LOVE THESE JEANS!  It was totally worth the extra money, which actually ended up being only $13 for the waist and the hem.  A special note on the hem...these jeans have a wider hem so I was really concerned that the tailor would not duplicate exactly, but they did and it is perfect!  By the way, if you are in LA's South Bay area and you're looking for a tailor, I would totally recommend May Tailoring & Alterations in Carson.  They do a great job, they are fast, and they're prices are great.  Anyway, I am sold. I will ALWAYS tailor my jeans from now it. It really does make all the difference.

The Shirt: My shirt may seem like a plain black t-shirt, but on the contrary this shirt has tons of little design details that make it so very fabulous.  For starters, if you look closely, you will see that this little number has SHOULDER PADS!!! That's right, folks...shoulder pads.  The top was actually given to me by a friend as joke, because I always like quirky fashions.  Of course, I loved the shirt and the shoulder pads and super thin drapey tencel fabric give it a great shape and a stunning fit.  Now as if the fabulous shoulder pads weren't enough, I also love the fun floppy front pocket.  It gives the tee an extra something special!  Lastly, I love that the fabric is is so thin its almost sheer.  I wore this to work today so I just through on a black cami, but this top also looks great with just a black bra underneath for a subtle sexy vibe.  You could also play with a printed bra like leopard.  It would also look great layered over a lace or sequined cami for a little understated glam.

The Accessories: Black & denim looks are a blank canvas for loads of fun accessories (although the minimalist look is super hot, and super on trend too). Cocktail rings are all the rage these days, but I don't wear rings usually, and I've also struggled with how to balance an giant, gawdy ring with my engagement ring.  Today, I just went for it and threw on a  "cocktail ring" that I purchased from Micheal's craft store  for a halloween costume a couple years ago.  Keeping with the fake bling theme, I threw on my Forever 21 faux crystal chandelier necklace and faux crystal embellished hoop earrings.

The Purse: I picked up this Perry Ellis metallic tote at the thrift shop!  It was $6, and I love it! It is so incredibly roomy inside.  This morning I was running late, and I didn't have time for a purse swap so I threw yesterday's clutch right in as is (haven't we all done that trick before!), along with my laptop and the latest issue of Harper's Bazaar.  What's not to love about a carryall?

So you see, there is more to this seemingly simple black & denim ensemble than meets the eye at first glance!

I just had to post the next picture because it looks like I have a real black girl bootie. Trust me when I say, it is an illusion.  It's the booty I always longed for back in high school when I was told I was too skinny. Lol!  The picture above is more realistic.  There is a some slight curvature...very slight!

What's your go-to look "when all else fails?"

Do you tailor your jeans?

What do you think of the various denim dilemma options?

Thanks for stopping by!!

Closed Toe Summer Shoes...

I received the following message on Facebook from a friend who is also a dedicated Fashionista Next Door reader.  Instead of responding to her directly, I thought I'd post my reply, complete with pictures here! I have totally been in this situation myself! I dropped a table on my big toe one Christmas two months before my cousin's wedding...smh! My toenail turned black and eventually fell off to make way for a brand new clear toenail (gross, right!), but sadly not in time for the wedding.

Melea writes...

"so I may be coming to you for random style advice....... I busted my big toe at the airport and now its all bandaged up. Have a party Thursday night and sandals are out of the question.. . any advice on cute, closed-toed, shoes for summer? my first instinct is a nude pump, but that seems so basic, any ideas?"

Well, Melea there are sooo many closed toe shoe options this summer... The nude pump is obviously a winner! Nude pumps go with just about anything and make your legs look like they go on forever...some other options that are HOT this summer include brogues and oxfords and...clogs! I say that with a bit of hesitation but I happen to like clogs and they are totally on trend.  Denim is also hot, hot, hot this summer, and a denim pump is very appropriate for summer!  and of course, we can't forget about leopard pumps.  Animal print has been hot for a while now, and leopard pumps are a great statement shoe.

Here are some great closed toe options I found online, that I think would complement any summer ensemble quite nicely.  Of course, you need them by tomorrow so ordering online may not work, but I hope you'll find some inspiration in these options...

A Closed Toe Summer by eboni.ife featuring Steve Madden shoes

I am not sure what the attire is for your shindig tomorrow but I took the liberty of creating a look using the woven clogs above.  I am kinda drooling over these clogs but they are $200 sooooo I doubt they'll be coming home anytime soon.  Rompers are all the rage this summer, and the floral print on this romper is super fun and flirty and easy to dress up or down with accessories.

Clogs by eboni.ife featuring Argento Vivo earrings

Now, if you're more a risk taker you could also throw on some nice trouser socks with your fave sandal and keep it trucking. Socks with heels has been a hot trend for the last couple years.  I actually haven't ventured off into this trend myself, but I do love it and I always think it looks fab when I see other people do it.  Rihanna and Leighton Meester pull off the look quite well, don't you think?

Lastly, when it comes to summer look don't feel confined to "summer shoes."  I personally love the look of rugged boots with flirty summer ensembles.  I reworked the floral romper above for a more casual look pairing it with a denim vest and motorcycle boots.

Motorcycle Boots by eboni.ife featuring Siwy Jeans vests

Well, Melea, I hope these ideas are helpful!!! Have fun Friday! I am sure you're gonna look fabulous.  I'll look forward to seeing pictures on Facebook!

Thanks for stopping by!!!