RAAD TREND: Fifty Shades of Gladiator

RAAD Trend: Gladiator Sandals
What it is: Caging your legs with lateral, leather strips from the tips of your toes to the bottom of your knees.
Why it's RAAD: Never mind the fact that you'd be living out one of Christian Grey's fashion fantasies, this bondage-meets-bohemian trend looks super fierce with any leg-baring outfit. Yes, gladiators have made a comeback, but this year they're paired with longer hemlines (as seen above) to make an even stronger statement.

RAADtrend: Gypsy Cowgirl

RAAD Trend: Gypsy Cowgirl

What is is: Fusing fringe, leather and wide-brimmed hats with bohemian, lax-fitted garments.

Why it's RAAD: We have the bad-ass western look, in all its rugged glory, with leather footwear, don't-mess-with-me hats, and miles of fringe. Then combine that with the sultry touch of free-spirited, body-baring crochet, and over-sized layers. Twist your hair into a braid to top off this effortless western look.

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: