FabSugar

Fab Body Guide: Elongate Yourself

FabSugar — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 15:00:08 -0800

You've all heard that black makes you look slimmer and taller. While that's true, it's not the only trick in the book. There are a dozen other ways to elongate yourself without having to look goth. Take a look at the real-life examples below. For The Spirit LA premiere, Eva Mendes chose a Bill Blass maxi that, because it grazed the carpet, made her appear taller. Vertical stripes, as shown in the center editorial, and long cardigans, like on Katie Holmes, can also do the trick. Proceed for more tips.

Maxi Dresses: Like in Eva's case, maxi dresses give the illusion of tallness because they provide one straight line from top to bottom, without any interruptions.
Long Cardigans: It's a misconception that everything long makes you look tall. But a long cardigan, past your waist, is one casual way to do it. The darker the color the better.
Long, Wide-Leg Trousers: Be sure to find a style that grazes the floor, and preferably covers your shoes. They're never to be worn with flats, only high heels!
Platforms: It's no secret that platform shoes can literally add inches to your height. For a more subtle approach, choose a shoe with a hidden platform.
Vertical Stripes: Unlike horizontal stripes, which cut you off, vertical stripes keep going and going.

To see more tips, and to shop a widget of elongating pieces, read more.

Trench Coats: A thigh-length trench coat is a slick, sophisticated way to appear tall, especially when worn with over-the-knee boots. Avoid anything longer than the knee, please.
Over-the-Knee Boots: Speaking of over-the-knee boots, ones with high heels will give you an extra boost. Just be sure to wear them with demure clothing; you don't want to look sketchy.
Dark Colors: Black, dark brown, navy, dark gray - these moody hues and others like them are right for looking slim and tall.
Long, Skinny Scarves: Throw on an extra long, extra skinny scarf to take the focus away from your outfit.
Turtlenecks: These give the illusion of a long neck, so they're perfect for those who have a short one.
High-Waist Styles: Whether its skirts, shorts, or pants, if you have a flat tummy, high-waisted styles can make your torso appear inches longer.
Opera Gloves: Unlike cropped gloves, opera styles go past your elbow and make your arms appear super slender.

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Good News: Fall 2006 Isn't Just About Leggings

FabSugar — Sun, 03 Sep 2006 10:23:23 -0700

As you know from my earlier post about Fall 2006 fashion trends, I am definitely on the fence about the whole leggings and skinny jeans thing. I am just not sure I can pull off the look. One thing I know I can handle, however, is another Fall trend: tailored wide-legged trousers. Here are a few of my favorites, including designer and non-designer finds:

Designer Picks

Marc by Marc Jacobs Herringbone Wide-Leg Pants, $278.00, Available here.

Theory Emery M Pant, $230.00, Available here.

To see how to get this look at non-designer prices, read more

Banana Republic Martin Lightweight Wool Trouser, $98.00, Available here.

Gap Flare Original Low Rise Pants, $48.00, Available here.

Mossimo® Black Wear-to-Work Trouser Pants, $22.99, Available here.

Celebrity Style: Angelina Jolie

FabSugar — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 12:30:22 -0700

Angelina Jolie attended a UN screening of the documentary Darfur Now looking professional and chic. She has this amazing ability to look just as glamorous in trousers as she does in a gown - if not more so. Her ensemble is ideal for work because it's demure yet stylish, and you always want to look fabulous, even at the office. But back to Angelina, her Alexander McQueen patent bag is what really takes her look from blasé to high-fashion.

Madison Los Angeles Ruffle Blouse, $395	French Connection cradock trouser, $148
Steven Babbett Black Patent Pump, $133	Alexander McQueen Elvie patent leather bag, $1,495	Nordstrom 8mm Glass Pearl Stud Earrings, $20

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2010 Spring New York Fashion Week: Rachel Roy

FabSugar — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 08:00:22 -0700

Did you know Rachel Roy wasn't allowed to watch television growing up? But she was allowed to watch classic movies, hence her fascination with classic Hollywood glamour. Rachel's Spring collection wasn't frilly and fantastical - it was a nice dose of sleek precision. Her silky blouses, wide-legged trousers, smart dresses, and soft tailoring would have made Rita Hayworth a fan. But her fishnet dress, biker shorts, and black urchin stud embroidery puts things in 2010. And RR's collaborations with Manolo Blahnik always guarantee stunning sandals. Slap on some exclusive jewelry by Fred Leighton . . . quiet elegance.

For more sleek Rachel Roy,read more.

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Don't forget to check out all of our New York Fashion Week coverage and follow my Fashion Week adventures on Twitter!

Fashion Week Quickie: Rebecca Taylor

FabSugar — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 10:00:22 -0800

Raise your hand if you're a Rebecca Taylor fanatic? I sort of was, but after her too cute Spring collection, I am now 100%. I'm stoked to see what she's thinking for Fall. Here's a sneak peek!

Her Fall collection is inspired by imagery from Northern European fairytales. Like this sketch, oversized wrap coats are belted and worn over cool ruffled tops tucked into wide leg trousers. Expect pastel shades of field flowers and the Scandinavian sea contrasted with deep hues of violet, beetroot and pomegranate - sounds lavish. Artisanal metals serve as embellishments and chunky Lucite jewelry will bring the Taylor girl into modern times.

On Our Radar: Paige Denim Starts Contemporary Line

FabSugar — Wed, 21 May 2008 15:00:22 -0700

Paige Premium Denim is growing its business by delving into the contemporary market. Paige Black Label, set to debut on July 30, will take the fit focus of the jeans line and translate it into sophisticated fabrics and classic silhouettes. Among the pieces you can expect are wool wide-leg trousers, skinny leather pants, body-con dresses, and high-rise pencil skirts. Wholesale prices range from $95 to $361. The wide-leg wool trousers sound great to me for Fall.

To see more from Paige Black Label, read more

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On My Way To a Fab Closet, Part III

FabSugar — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 15:00:22 -0700

The most fabulous news: My Fab closet is done! I wanted to make sure it was in tip top order before I did my big reveal. I also had to go the The Container Store to get some boot fillers, skirt hangers (the kind with the multiple hang) and some plastic containers for under my bed storage. All my clothes have been analyzed and some have been tossed to the consignment shop curb - buh-bye! There are still a few questionable items - maybe you all can help me determine their fate? So I really didn't need to do much but put on my organizing Philip Treacy hat when filling it up.

As you can see, I am a color coordinator. I also group items by type; dresses together, tops, jeans etc. I fold my jeans, I don't hang them, btw. What are my favorite parts of the newly improved closet? That's easy: The shoe shelves! Also, all the hanging space. I have lots of dresses, tops and jackets and now everything has a home. But the best part of all is that I can see all my clothes. The only things hiding are seasonal sweaters and costumes. The belt rack and scarf rack are cool too; I've been wearing more of both as a result. I must confess that I also have two dressers. The burgundy one houses my sunglasses, underthings, socks and tights. The big purple one hides jewelry, pj's, cotton basics, tee shirts and sweaters. And, I have a coat rack for grab-and-go jackets and hoodies.

To read the rest and to see more pics of my Fab closet, read more

OK, it's obvious I have a lot of clothes. But this experience has opened my eyes as to what my personal style is. I believe one's style is always evolving - especially for a fashion chameleon - but there were definitely some Fab staples. Allow me to share them with you. I have about ten LBDs as well as oodles of navy and red dresses. Don't let me buy anymore! I love sharp outerwear. Given the foggy climate of San Francisco, I have tons of jackets and coats, but I wear them all. I swear. When I used to live in New York City I had more coats and I started collecting vintage coats and restoring them so I still have a few that I will love forever. I just wear them Carrie Bradshaw style: with a sexy little LBD (see!), strappy heels and a clutch.

Black is most people's neutral, mine is grey. Another thing I don't need to buy more of: grey cardigans and sweaters. I have every kind of pant imaginable: black trouser, black pinstripe, jeans (cropped, wide leg, skinny, black, grey, white), grey trouser, khaki trouser, black cropped, black bermudas. Hmmm, maybe black is my neutral after all. In general, I need to wear more slacks! Carine Roitfeld wears them all the time, so color me inspired. Also, I am more of a shoe junkie than a bag lady. I really don't think I have that many bags, PartySugar. Except, my clutch collection (mostly vintage) is quite fabulous.

Here's the fun part: My favorite brands. I guess there's no other way of uncovering them than raiding your closet. Here goes: Marc by Marc Jacobs, Banana Republic, Theory, H&M, DKNY, J.Crew, Target GO International (lots of pieces from the Proenza Schouler collection last year), BCBG, Miu Miu, Nanette Lepore, DVF, See by Chloe, Paul and Joe, J Brand jeans. As for shoes, I have lots of Marc Jacobs and Marc, KORS Michael Kors, Nine West and Belle Sigerson Morrison. Heels have tapered off for me, I am an official lover of flats. Vintage rules my coats, sandals, clutches and jewelry.

So what's next? I don't have much extra room - this is a good thing. Now that I've been reacquainted with a lot of my clothes I don't feel I need to shop much. But you know me. I have a few shoe slots available, some jacket space and I'm not really happy with my boot collection so come next Fall I may invest in a new pair. Maybe some grey ones . . .

Hallway closet

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Mistress closet

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Celebrity Style: Double the Lauren Conrad, Double the Fun

FabSugar — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 11:00:22 -0700

You knew this was coming - I can't resist Lauren's laid-back chic sometimes. She's a bona fide girl about town promoting her Mark cosmetics gig, and then appearing on The Late Show With David Letterman last night. She pulled a Carrie Bradshaw wearing a studded belt with both of these looks. For David, she was tailored and tough in Alice + Olivia navy wide-leg trousers and Mike & Chris cropped leather jacket - no LC outfit is complete without a Chanel bag. For Mark, she wore a skirt from Whitney Port's clothing line, said studded belt and a Fab Yaya Aflalo polka-dot tank. Which look do you like better?

Rebecca Taylor Reb - Ruffle Top - $198.00	Chris Benz Annie Trouser - $775.00
Black Pyramid Stud Waist Belt - £15.00	Mike & Chris Quintus Leather Jacket - $627.00
Christian Louboutin Delic- BLACK - $660.00	Maya Brenner Designs Jewelry Box Necklace in Silver - $140.00
Chanel black quilted crepe flap shoulder bag - $2,360.00

To get Lauren's cute look on the right, read more.

Yaya Aflalo Silk Polka Dot Tank - $183.00	Whitney Eve Brentwood Black Chiffon Skirt - $198.00
Stud Stretch Belt - $48.00	Christian Louboutin Simple Pump- Dark Red - $575.00
Chanel black quilted jersey flap shoulder bag - $3,080.00	3XL Disc Necklace Silver - $115.00

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What Will You Be Wearing Next Month?

FabSugar — Wed, 26 Jul 2006 16:26:55 -0700

Still confused by the maze of fall fashion trends? No question, the 80s are back in a big way, but will you be proudly sporting the new fall leggings or quietly taking a pass?

ShopBop breaks it down. Which look works or doesn't work for you?

1. Punk Rocker Edge. Dig out those baggy sweaters and lacy leggings! What are the chances Madonna kept all of her clothes from 1984?

Lots more, so read more

2. Mod Clean lines and A-line shapes look oh-so-Marlo Thomas! We love That Girl!

3. Classic Grunge Sure it looks fashionable on her, but we think lumberjack plaids may be a little tough to pull off if you don't have a spot-on sense of style.

4. Boy Meets Girl Wide legged trousers and neckties are very Annie Hall. Classic and probably the most wearable of these looks.

5. Pump Up the Volume Fall is all about balancing proportions - skinny jeans with baggy sweaters, or tight tanks with wide-legged trousers. Does this mean Seinfeld's "Puffy Shirt" might just work this season with the right pair of leggings?

6. Inky Darks Classic cold-weather dressing, grey, chocolate and navy can all be paired with black for a more conservative, yet modern, look. Any excuse to bust out the fishnet stockings!

7. Bold Graphics Bold and organic prints can be paired with more understated items to show off your shape. Wearable, as long as you've got a shape to show off!

8. Sweater Dresses The sweater dress is a blast from the past and speaks for itself. I might have to warm up to this one.

These and other hot ShopBop looks are coming soon. Which will you be wearing next month?

Dress Me Up: The Well-Tailored Party Girl

FabSugar — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 16:00:22 -0700

The Resort collections opened up a new world of doors for wide-legged pants. They've taken a backseat to the popular skinny leg for the past couple seasons, but the bell-bottomed '70s are back with a vengeance. As exemplified by Angela Missoni's Resort collection (left), mixing crisp, flared trousers with a funky top will lend you instant party chic. Groovy, baby.

The Marisa Fit wide leg pant in seasonless stretch - $69.50	Diesel Lesticiesel Belt - $50.00
Mila Schon Purple & Fuchsia Lines Printed Silk Halter Top - $138.00	Yves Saint Laurent Tribute Sandal- Purple - $995.00
Akuamarina Silver Leaf and Murano Glass Round Open Ring - $49.50	Valentino Patent Histoire Bag - $1,795.00

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Vince Long Cardigan - $320.00	Cherub Trouser - $168.00
Simple Jersey Scarf - $6.80	Corsair Leather Over-The-Knee Boot - $178.00
Nordstrom Faux LaceUp Long Leather Gloves - $148.00	City Style Leather Trench - $129.95
J Brand - $187.00	Splendid Long Cardigan - $70.00
Tweed Wide Leg Pant - $34.99	Rachel Pally Swing Turtleneck - $141.00
V-line platform pump - $72.00	Heathered Turtleneck Tunic - $15.80
Lauren by Ralph Lauren Tunic Swimsuit Cover-Up - $61.00	Halter Maxi Dress - $98.00
Raven Tailored Riley Stripe Trouser - $242.00	Zipper High Waisted Skirt - $22.99
Long Ultra-Knit Skirt - $59.50	Yana Wrap Cashmere - $375.00
BR Monogram cashmere long cardigan - $275.00	0815LovesPeace by 8.15 August Fifteenth Hooded Tunic - $78.00
James Perse Racerback Maxi Dress - $155.00