Known since 2002 for her glamorous, easy-to-wear line of jerseywear, Californian Rachel Pally is expecting her first child next month. The designer and mom-to-be's aesthetic lends itself perfectly to laid-back, boho-chic pregnancy dressing, and we were lucky enough to snag her top personal tips for effortless maternity style. Check out how Rachel's styled herself for the past eight months, and apply her lessons to your own fabulous self!
Every mom-to-be has the same question. It's not how to survive childbirth, or what to do with a newborn — it's how on Earth to get dressed in the morning with a burgeoning baby bump! As it turns out, there's not a single foolproof trick to the trade, but instead a number of styling secrets that you can incorporate into your maternity wardrobe. From Liz Lange to Rosie Pope, we've got the inside scoop from some of our favorite designers and celebs — all of whom have been there themselves, might we add — on how they mastered the art of chic pregnancy style.
Unlike a mini or maybe a plunging neckline, there are a few ways of revealing some skin that never feel, well, too revealing. At the top of our list currently are shoulder-baring frocks, just the way fashion pack Alexa Chung, Michelle Monaghan, Abbie Cornish, and Julia Restoin-Roitfeld are showing them off. They're sexy, but not overt, leaving an exposed neckline to adorn with a fabulous statement necklace or dangling earrings. We love the feel of a looser, floral-print off-the-shoulder for a fresh '70s vibe by day, then slip into a body-con version and channel a sultrier side of the '80s by night.
We've already hooked you up with some great Spring-ready cocktail dresses, but if you're still on the lookout for party outfits, you may want to glean inspiration from the real stars of the show: the drinks. Our good friends at YumSugar have been busy crafting tasty Spring cocktails, and in addition to making us extra thirsty, they all showcase bold color combinations and chic, subtle garnishes — providing unexpected inspiration for some fun party ensembles. Click through to see each yummy look — then prepare to eat, drink, and be stylish.
>> With Spring on the horizon, even if the weather isn't yet on board, we can't help but start planning our warmer weather ensembles. Jessica Stein from Tuula showed off a rust-hued look perfect for the sunny days ahead of us: slouched trousers, off-shoulder top, floppy hat, and suede wedge sandals look simultaneously polished and casual. If you're feeling inspired, nab exact and similar picks from Topshop, Rachel Pally, and Jeffrey Campbell.
Left to right: Rachel Pally Kahlo Off Shoulder Top ($145), Topshop Stone Ring ($20), Urban Outfitters Floppy Hat ($29), Topshop Rust Trousers ($90), Jeffrey Campbell Suede Wedge ($129), Gucci Handmade Leather Bag ($5,300)
Photo courtesy of Tuula.tumblr.com
Target is all about dresses these days. First it announced a limited-edition dress collection, and, now, it has collaborated with designer Rachel Pally for an exclusive plum floral frock ($80) as part of its Red Hot Shop. "It can be worn several ways, including strapless or as a skirt. It is flexible, with age range and personal style," Pally says of her creation. We're not too crazy about the halter styles but do love the skirt and tube dress versions. One piece, five ways — you know we're all about that here at Fab!
>> The little black dress is ever a staple and more so with the holiday season approaching. Our picks — from the likes of Jen Kao, Diane von Furstenberg, Alexander Wang, and Rag & Bone — have you covered for every occasion, whether it's a swanky dinner party or a more intimate gathering amongst friends. Peruse the slideshow for our top 18 little black dresses of the season.
I've fallen hard for Fall's leopard trend. So when I spied Sienna Miller sporting her Twenty8Twelve leopard print mini, I wanted one, too. I couldn't help but start planning the outfit fun: pairing it with my military anorak, maybe an olive green tee — so many ways to wear it. Unfortunately, I let my mind wander before I thought through the cost, which is around $280 . . .
To see the look for less, just read more
Marie Claire's style and accessories director, Taylor Tomasi Hill, took to the Paris streets on Fashion Week day two wearing a fresh ensemble comprised of a slouchy charcoal sweater, sequin tribal print skirt by Ashish, Balenciaga boots, and Miu Miu clutch. Eclecticism at its best, and we can't get over her gray peep-toe boots. Emulate the look with a printed dress by Rachel Pally, loose-fit gray sweater by CeCe, and platform boots by Carvela.
Left to right: Daisy Knights Studded Ring ($255), Michael Kors Silver Watch ($225), Taylor Tomasi Hill at Paris Fashion Week, Halston Heritage Leather Clutch ($245), Alexander Wang Tortoise Shell Sunglasses ($355), Carvela Platform Boots ($270), Rachel Pally Tribal Print Dress ($118)
Photos: Greg Kessler
Natalie Portman stepped out in a short and sweet Miu Miu strapless dress for the 67th annual Venice Film Festival but gave a twist to classic cocktail with royal hues and mixed metallics. The actress chose a deep purple dress ($125) and added a quilted silver clutch ($26) and satin rose gold heels to amp up the fun — effortless elegance. Click the items above to shop a similar look.
