November 12, 2015

Furs & Flares

The two most important F's in every fashionista's closet: Furs & Flares.

Everybody loves a causal Friday at the office, but why wear the same pair of jeans and boots every week? For me, fashion should always be fun and that includes at the work place. A dark pair of flares are a retro chic way to recreate any denim look. I recently found these 7 For All Mankind flares and they have quickly moved to the top of my denim drawer. The slimming cut hugs my body at just the right spots and the visible buttons dazzle for a 70's-inspired flare. The darker hue could not be more ideal for transitioning from day to night for some after work drinks or meeting up with a special someone.

Season after season, the statement fur shows no sign of slowing down. As much as I'd love a "Look at me!" colorful Shrimps coat, my style is much more classic and this H&M faux fur vest ticks every box. Ideal for layering over a turtleneck like I did here or a long dress with an OTKB, my fall staple is a must-have for those cozy fall days. Comfortable and versatile, the combinations are endless.

As a true Florida girl at heart, I'm trying to wait as long as possible before throwing on my heavy parka every morning. (ugh) The cold weather may not be my best friend, but the fall and winter fashion styles most definitely are.

xx Christie

November 2, 2015

Art of the Trench

by Christie Nowels

There really is one item that holds a timeless piece in every working girl's wardrobe - the Trenchcoat. It's no secret that Burberry has perfected the art of the trench with a rainbow of colors, textured fabrics, and even the most eccentric shapes. As a classic, a Burberry trench can stand alone in its own glory no matter the time of day or the unpredictable London weather. I chose this black, wool and cashmere blend in the classic 'Kensington' style as my ideal everyday coat for the colder months. I couldn't be happier with the tailored cut and rich embellishments that add a sense of chic to any ordinary day. This is a true investment piece for the colder season, but I promise it's worth every penny.

Burberry has been a favorite of mine for years for its high standards in quality and fashionable style. This quintessential British brand has been making raincoats since 1850, but it wasn't until the 40's that they started becoming fashion statements. The quirky nickname, the Trench, actually began as the name of the men's version of this stylish coat, while the women's model was still called the Glenco. The 1950's continued the glory days for Burberry with Hollywood's elite wearing its trademark designs. Since 2001, Christopher Bailey has transformed the Burberry brand into the modern era with fresh faces and cutting edge designs that have enhanced its status as a global icon. And of course, social media has helped too...

Other Burberry Options: (Click through to open)

Other brand options:

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xx Christie

October 27, 2015

A Tea to Go

by Christie Nowels

The question of the hour - Tea or Coffee?

Almost every weekend, one of my favorite things to do is walk around Kensington running errands, admiring all the beautiful coloured houses, and of course, finding the cutest breakfast spots for the best scones. I'm a huge explorer, so no alley is small enough for me to find the quaintest British tearoom. For those lazy Sundays, you can leave the heels at home and throw on a casual outfit to get a tea to go.

Here's my top 3 style tips for casual weekends:

1. Hat - A hat is an easy way to cover that messy Sunday bed head, but an instant option to looking chic. The one I'm wearing is actually from my YiaYia's (grandmother's) 1950's wardrobe, which she kindly gave to me the last time I was home. Almost 60 years old and this felt-lined hat from Chicago has made its way to London in mint condition. When you find a good hat, it's ok to invest a little more for quality wool because like this one, it'll last you a half a century.
Other options- h ere, here, and here.

2. Scarf - As much as I love chunky jewelry, my best accessory lies within my scarf collection. My secret is finding them on a steal because all that truly matters is a great hue/pattern and a quality material. Forever 21 actually makes great, cozy scarves for a fraction of a Burberry or Cashmere price tag. For $12.90, I'll take one in every color. Here are my other favorites- here, here, and here.

3. Jeans - Every girl has her go-to pair of jeans and for me it's these J Brand skinnies. As much as I've wanted to make the boyfriend fit work, there's something about a tight pair of skinny jeans that go with everything. Sadly I've worn these pair so much that their color has faded a bit, but a great excuse to buy another exact pair. I've been eyeing these - here, here, and here.

xx Christie

October 22, 2015

Worth A Check

by Christie Nowels

'Tis the season for plaid! After gracing its presence on the fall runways of Kate Spade, Marc Jacobs, and Michael Kors, plaid has made a huge comeback. This season's tartan is anything but ordinary as we've seen this signature pattern mixed and matched to make us all mad for plaid. Embracing my Scottish roots, I went on the hunt for the perfect plaid piece.

Plaid can be a tricky one. You don't want to go too obnoxious and look like you've cut up your grandmother's curtains, but you also don't want to find too small of checks that resemble a summer gingham. The hue is very important in finding a happy medium between holiday and straight off the Scottish Highland. The style of the garment is always a personal choice as I wasn't looking for the ordinary blazer, button down, or scarf - the norm for plaid sightings. My list for plaid may be specific, but it's worth every check.

I've been looking to purchase a cape for some time now. Store after store, I've been constantly disappointed at the basic styles and lack of quality material. I'm a huge fan of textures and every poncho felt and looked the same. I wasn't even sold on this trend to begin with since I'm one of those people who are constantly cold... However, everything changed when I stepped into H&M and found THE winner. This soft leather lined, plaid cape was the perfect match. The elegant light beige and blue hues were ideal for everyday wear and the buckled hinge embellishment added that special detail that I had never seen before. The longer length resembled more of a blanket that you can easily snuggle with over a fire or simply wear with your winter coat. It was truly love at first sight. Check, please.

xx Christie

October 7, 2015

Uptown Girl

by Christie Nowels

Kimora Lee Simmons says "You should always dress like you're going to see your worst enemy"... I wouldn't go that dramatic, but I do standby that you should always leave your house looking and feeling great. Whether for you that's gym clothes and sneakers or a daring pop of color. Whatever you choose to put on in the morning should have a personal touch to make you feel just as good on the inside.

My personal style has never been, let's say, grey. I'm a naturally bubbly, fast talking American living in the most thriving city in Europe - how could I blend in even if I tried? I don't and that's ok with me. So when I found this Ted Baker floral skirt, I knew it was bold, but it had 'Christie Alexandra' written all over it. I've never been a head-to-toe, all black kind-of girl anyways. Even Anna Wintour turns her head to this despite the large population of female New Yorkers swearing to this iconic look. My Uptown Girl style is fun and flirty, while mixing traditional, classic pieces with bold accessories. Think Olivia Palermo x J. Crew x Sandro x Alice & Olivia. Just fabulous, right?

My style has definitely evolved throughout the years with the help of inspiration from fashion week, mom's vintage pieces, and general lifestyle changes. But one thing has always stayed the same - my love for a good pair of shoes. And if shoes were the most powerful accessories, then these Aquazzura's would be the President. Aquazurra is a coveted designer label from Florence whose A-list clients reach across the globe. It's no surprise that fashion bloggers are rocking these designs daily and new styles sell out online before they can even reach a store. This pair rejects the traditional black pump and stands out with its translucent, mesh design that adds a new version of classic for the modern day working woman. I'll take one in every color, please.

xx Christie