Off the Grid

This is my "safe version" of this hypnotic trend. I originally planned on shooting this look with a hat and a few additional accessories, but I decided to save those pieces for another time. Don't want to scare you guys off now...I know what I'm doing, I swear!

But as you can see, I left the drama on top, and kept it simple on the bottom. I needed to let my legs breathe with all the geometric moshing going on. Solid colored pieces are VITAL when dealing with that many lines. It's a balancing act, folks.

Jacket: Vintage | Blouse: Forever 21 | Skirt: Forever 21 | Shoes: Sam Edelman | Sunglasses: Tom Ford | Flower: H&M

Ring My Bell

 

It's been awhile since my last outfit post, but I jumped all over this trend because it solves many strict dress code issues. I decided to go comando under this particular sheer blouse, but all I need to do is throw on a cami underneath and head straight to work. Shoulders are covered, neckline is high, yet you still come off uber chic and professional. If skirt length is an issue in your office, then slip on a knee-length pencil skirt or some tapered pants. 

 

 Top: H&M Conscious Collection, Skirt: H&M, Shoes: Charles David, Bra: La Perla, Clutch: Anthropologie, Earrings: H&M, Sunglasses: Turbine

  

RAAD Trend: Bell Sleeve

RAAD Trend: Bell Sleeve
What it is:  It's a sleeve that is shaped like a bell (obv) and can vary in size and length (see above photo).
Why it's RAAD: It's arm drama at its finest. You can't help but sashay like a diva when you're rocking some serious sleeves like these. There's been a lot of focus on flaring the skirts this season, so it's time to shift your attention to your arms people.
How to wear it: There are 2 good options for this: straight fitted or A-lined bottoms. You can leave the volume in the sleeve, but smooth out the rest of the outfit with a straight pant or skirt. Or keep the flare going all the way to the bottom by tucking your top into some chic bell bottoms or mini A-lined skirt.

RAAD TREND: SNEAKER CHIC

RAAD Trend: Sneaker Chic
What it is: Straight up running shoes paired with girly silhouettes
Why it's RAAD: This trend is a godsend for our poor stiletto-wearing feet. These comfort shoes are your skirt's new bff, and they come in all colors and styles. It's such a good contrast between feminine and downtown-cool, not to mention how chic you'll look running errands throughout the day!
How to wear it: Pencil, A-line, pleated, mini...any feminine skirt or dress that you have can be paired with these kicks. I would keep a balance of bright and neutral colors, whether you keep your shoes black and white with a hot pink dress, or vice versa.

Here's some of my favorite picks:

follow me / make your ownLYST

RAAD Trend: The Gentlewoman

RAAD Trend: The Gentlewoman

What it is: This androgynous look takes power-suiting to a whole other level. Bright/printed/monochromatic suits, chest-baring blouses, collars and bow ties, and a little bit of leather. There's nothing butch about this.  

Why it's RAAD: Never mind the fact that it's feminine, edgy and seductive without having to wear a mini. But the RAADest thing of all is that it's completely effortless and unexpected. If you want to make a statement without trying too hard, this is how you do it.

When to wear it: The obvious answer: for work. Interviews, meetings, presentations...anything that requires a more sophisticated dress code. But you gotta take this look outside of the office if you really want to look RAAD. Pair your suit with a crop-top for cocktail hour. Or wear leather flats with a skinnier leg to lunch downtown.

Check out some more gentlewomen below:

STRIPES + SPOTS

Voila. My leopard + plaid + minor floral concoction. 

Being that I live in the desert-land of Scottsdale, I decided to take this feline look into the wild (otherwise known as my backyard).

We got leopard, plaid, florals, leather, jewels – there's definitely a lot going on. BUT it's all about balancing the color tones when mixing a variety of elements together. I kept the overall tone of my shorts, shoes and accessories pretty neutral so that the prints could make its statement.

If you aren't feeling this print on print action, then you can easily swap out my plaid for a solid color, or just completely eliminate the leopard coat. But a good way to approach this bold trend is to accent your accessories and shoes with these prints first, then move onto the clothing.

Check back tomorrow for some different leopard + plaid options.