Crop Tops: Do or Don’t?

Classic clothing dominates my wardrobe, but l’m definitely no stranger to purchasing a few trendy pieces here and there. However, I do draw the line when it comes to some of-the-moment fashion statements.  Case in point: the crop top trend popping up in stores across the country.

While it may be cool and cute for young fashionistas born in the 90s to wear, a midriff-baring top is not a good look for me. Considering that I’m days away from turning 32, this trend screams high school teeny-bopper. Perhaps, it’s because I owned quite a few of these tummy-skimming tops as a teen, that I just can’t seem to bear the thought of wearing them again at my age.

I’d like to think that my style has evolved since 1994 so I’ll leave this trend to the teens and twentysomething set.

Motel Strappy Back Cropped Top available at Asos.com for $40

What do you think, are crop tops a do or a don’t? What trends have you avoided, past or present?

7 Timeless Accessories

Trendy fashion accessories are a fun way to spruce up your wardrobe, but investing in a couple of classic ones can save money and keep you stylish for years to come.

From timeless wrist watches to dazzling diamond studs, every BG needs a few perennial pieces that will be forever chic and withstand the changing seasons.

Check out a few of my favorites:

14K White Gold Diamond Stud Earrings 1/2 c.t. available at Macys for $200
Sonia by Sonia Rykiel Leopard Scarf available at Kirnazabete for $295
Michael Kors Gold Hinged Buckle Bangle available at Nordstrom for $95
Kate Spade New York “Cooper” Leather Strap Watch available at Nordstrom for $195

Cole Haan Victoria Leather Tote available at Cole Haan for $278

Diane Von Furstenberg Cognac Crocodile Embossed Belt available at StyleBop for $126

Vera Wang Python-Print Leather Ballet Flats available at Saks for $175

Do you tend to purchase classic accessories or do you enjoy more trendy items?

Pretty Pastels

There’s no denying that bold and rich saturated gemstone shades and neons are still the dominating trends right now, but the preferred color-wheel is slowly shifting toward pretty pastel hues. The paler candy-colored options have been cropping up in tops, dresses, skirts, accessories, and more for the spring and summer seasons.

Mint green, soft yellow, cotton-candy pink, light lavender, and baby blue hues exude femininity and daintiness so it’s no wonder that stores are stocking their shelves with the ladylike looks.

Perhaps, Easter will help usher in the pretty, sherbet-like picks.

Check out some of these chic pastel choices:

Are you a fan of pastel shades?

Cute Carry-Ons for Seasonal Getaways

With sky-high baggage fees and the overall hassle of traveling by air, getting to your spring and summer destinations can seem more like a dread than a dream.

In an effort to ease my traveling experience, I pack strategically so that I only bring a bright and bold carry-on to avoid standing in those never-ending check-in lines and avoid those ever-increasing baggage fees. 

Opting for a fashionable, roomy bag will make for a more seamless and affordable B-line to your vacation getaway. 
Check out a few of these cute carry-ons:

Samsonite Bright Lite 29″ Hardship Spinner available at www.samsonite.com for $160
Lacoste Gymnasium Roll Bag available at www.zappos.com for $166
Rebecca Minkoff Carry-On Oversized Bag available at www.amazon.com for $795
Kipling USA Brixen Wheeled Luggage available at www.zappos.com for $230

The Crown Edition Crown-X 30″ Hard-sided Spinner Suitcase available at www.sears.com for $399.95

Tumi Super Leger International Carry-On available at www.6pm.com
American Tourister iLite Carry-On-available at www.samsonite.com for $80.99
Do you typically carry-on or check your bags when traveling?

Get Beyoncé’s Vibrant Boho Chic Look

 Beyoncé stepped out yesterday in New York City donning a fitted neon pink tee paired with a pretty, floor-skimming print maxi skirt. While some may think the new mom may have gone a bit color overboard with her get-up, but I’m personally OBSESSED with this look!

Beyoncé out and about in NYC.

I have a tendency to purchase anything pink and if it’s bright, even better! If you’re like me and think the Queen Bee rocked this vibrant, boho ensemble check out a few pieces to replicate the electrifying look (warning: most of these maxi skirts come with a hefty price tag!):

       

Do you like Beyoncé’s boho chic look? Are you a fan of maxi skirts?

Stylish Spring/Summer Scarves

Pleasant, spring-like breezes seem to be on the rise as we march toward warmer weather. That means now’s the time to ditch big, bulky coats and replace them with light-weight jackets coupled with chic, cotton scarves to ward off any unexpected cold winds.

Kaaru, a Los Angeles-based line of hand-woven, 100% organic cotton clothing offers a stylish variety of scarves to brighten your spring wardrobe. Handmade by rural artisans of Bangladesh, proceeds from these unique, high-quality accessories helps provide fair wages for Bengali women and their children. Plus, customers will also receive a one-of-a-kind, hand-painted 5×8 canvas by Kaaru’s founder with each purchase. 
Fashion, art, and giving back…what’s not to love?
Check www.kaaruonline.com for prices and availability.

Are you a fan of spring/summer scarves? 

EVENT ALERT: Atelier AZZA To Make Retail Debut

There’s an emerging Chicago-based clothing designer who’s well on her way to becoming a household name: Azeeza Desai Khan.  Not only is she catching the attention of Vogue editors, fashionistas, and buyers across the country, but she’s also my BFF.

This Sunday, March 11 her line Atelier AZZA, will make its retail debut at Dose Market, the premiere vendor marketplace for food, fashion, and design purveyors in Chicago. 
Azeeza sporting an embellished blazer from her SS12 collection. 
Intricate hand-woven and embroidered, fine cashmere summer shawls, as well as opulently embellished blazers, collars, and dresses from her SS12 collection will be available for purchase. Plus, with each Atelier AZZA buy, a garment will be provided to an impoverished South Asian woman in need. 
If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind pieces that will get you noticed, definitely stop by Dose Market this weekend and check out Atelier AZZA. 
Do you make an effort to support local designers?