the style observer is about putting it all together

observations on looks

mirrors in the dressing room - what’s the deal?

July 18th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in basics looks

It’s hard work going through the racks trying to find pieces that you think will look good on you. You finally make your way to the back of the store, and are excited to see what pieces actually work well…on. Your excitement immediately turns to dread when you walk into the dressing room only to find that there are no mirrors in there. Ugh … Now you have to come outside the dressing room every time you want to assess your selection. No doubt, the salesperson is waiting for you to tell you how good the potato sack looks on you. Guess what? Most of us hate it! We hate that you don’t give us the privacy to decide what works for us on our own. Yesterday, I heard a girl say she leaves the store once she finds out there are no mirrors in the dressing room. So, why do retailers do it? Is it some ploy to get us to buy things we don’t necessarily look good in? Or is it simply to torture us? It certainly seems like torture for most of us. So… enlighten me, why?

boho jewels

July 17th, 2008 · posted by Madeline Rhodes in $ $$ bohemian bracelets charms jewelry looks necklaces rings

Adorn yourself in a daring combination of jewelry - raw stones, intricate bead work, feathers, crystals and leather. These are pieces that connect you to the powerful Boho movement as well as our beloved earth. These downright earthy and decadently glamorous pieces are available on many well-visited websites as well as tons of indie boutiques online! Lovemadds, Free People, and Made with Love in Brazil are great resources for these pieces if you really want to tap into the natural aspect of this trend, while sites like Pretty Black and Erica Weiner offer a different Bohemian approach incorporating rhinestones, faux tiger teeth and other wildly interesting imagery. If you think you already own some pieces that fall into this category, then go get them! Combine looks reminiscent of Sienna Miller and the Olsen twins - looks that emanate wild freedom, yet have been beautifully put together. Other style icons who are glammed out boho style and may offer some inspiration are Rachel Zoe, Nicole Richie, Maggie Gylenhall, Carrie Bradshaw and Kate Moss. The Boho style, full force, may not be for everyone, but you can certainly find your niche with the wide varieties it has to offer. Things to look for when picking out Boho jewelry are the use of lavish icons and imagery, bold stones, flowing pieces like fringe and strands of leather or fabric, lots of layering and grouping, wild use of color, and an over all look of achieving a perfected look through minimal effort. We Boho chic queens like to give off the idea that we just threw on whatever was on top and came out looking marvelously planned out.

Boho pieces in this observation (clockwise):

  • Devendra necklace @ Erica Weiner
  • Crystal Tourism necklace @ Erica Weiner
  • Sword & Stone necklace @ Erica Weiner
  • charm 40 @ Pretty Black
  • charm 28 @ Pretty Black
  • crossed-stich cuff @ Free People
  • Kingston bangle @ Free People
  • Shoreline ring @ Free People
  • Imenja necklace @ Made with Love in Brazil
  • citta bracelet @ Lovemadds
  • love to go around charms @ Lovemadds

  • how to dress your black dress for summer

    July 14th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $$$ $$$$ ALexander McQueen Anya Hindmarch Atelier Marisa Catherine Malandrino Cathy Waterman Christian Louboutin L.A.M.B. Marco Bicego accessories bracelets clothing dresses earrings glamorous handbags jewelry looks shoes

    You’ve got another party to go to, and you’ve run out of Summer ideas. Don’t be afraid to pull out your favorite black dress. The way to work a black dress into Summer style is with accessories. Go for a Grecian sun-kissed look. Black will simply glow with brushed gold accents. Pull your hair up with modern edge, and now this dress works from the suburbs to the city. Another way to dress your black dress for Summer is to kick it up with some color. Bring the color of the sea to the dress by popping on some refined turquoise earrings. Mix pieces of white and gold in for a polished look. A creamy white clutch will give it an elegant summer edge. Pull your curled hair back loosely so the pieces fall gracefully from your face. You’ll be relaxed and refined, and people will naturally be drawn to you. It’s not always about buying something new to wear. Sometimes it’s about redefining what you already have.

    2 examples in this observation:

    Left:

  • Cathy Waterman green tourmaline leaf earrings @ Ylang|23
  • Catherine Malandrino Spaghetti strap dress @ Net-a-Porter
  • Marco Bicego confetti bracelet 5-strand graduated with lemon citrine and peridot @ JR Dunn
  • Christian Louboutin Frescobaldi sandals @ Net-a-Porter
  • Anya Hindmarch ‘Libertines’ woven leather clutch


  • Right:

  • Atelier Marisa turquoise orbit earrings with diamonds @ Ylang|23
  • Alexander McQueen Balconette fitted dress @ Net-a-Porter
  • L.A.M.B. stitched pumps @ Asos
  • Anya Hindmarch ‘Madia’ cream leather clutch

  • indulge… and love yourself

    June 25th, 2008 · posted by Madeline Rhodes in $ $$ $$$ Fendi Leaves of Grass MAXSTUDIO Marcia Moran accessories bohemian clothing designers earrings handbags jewelry rings shoes tops

    Bring out your inner Summer goddess! Transform yourself into a mesmerizing mermaid, a freely flowing, sexy and powerful woman! With pride, stroll down the sandy beaches or down your local village streets, dine with style in that favorite restaurant of yours. It’s that outfit that is so perfect because it can take you anywhere - even from a sandy beach into the night. This look is inspiring, fresh, romantic, and makes a powerful statement with its golden embellishments and accessories. It’s decedent in that it stands for wearing all of your special pieces at once. It’s romantic in that it its visual details create a story line representative of love and lust. So ladies, love yourself in a look that is easier to wear than you think.

    mesmerizing items in this observation:

  • leaves of grass amoreuse chiffon top @ Net-a-Porter
  • ethnic tassle disc earrings @ Topshop
  • MAXSTUDIO ‘Xaria’ leather sandal @ Nordstrom
  • Marcia Moran rings @ Wink
  • Fendi forever clutch @ eLuxury

  • beneath bohemian style

    June 24th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $ $$ $$$ Christian Louboutin Vivienne Westwood accessories bohemian bracelets dresses earrings handbags hats jewelry necklaces scarves shoes sunglasses

    Have you met her? The girl who has the entire room watching her as she walks past. The one who has the power to stop you dead in your tracks. She has a confidence that makes others uneasy at first, but also an illuminating warmth that holds you close. She explores and appreciates all forms of art. She embraces individuality, and finds joy in expressing creativity. This freedom of expression comes across in they way she presents herself to the world, it comes across in her style choices. Bohemian style is no longer about peasant skirts, Birkenstocks, and unshaved armpits. It’s about mixing it up, and making fashion your own. It’s not predictable, and the fact that it doesn’t work makes it even more fantastic. It’s an intriguing style, that draws us in. She’s different, she feels the freedom to take risks in fashion, and own it. That… is what fashion icons are made of.

    bohemian expressions in this observation:

  • black dangles with rough cut diamond @ shop twigs
  • Dita Voluez Vous sunglasses @ Shop Intuition
  • Vivienne Westwood Anglomania New Drape striped dress @ Net-a-Porter
  • Adventurine Maltese Cross @ Kara Ross
  • Muxo Totisse cross body bag @ Shopbop
  • NAIK FuR spiral crochet cloche @ Smashing Darling
  • Christian Louboutin Trottinette ankle boots @ Net-a-Porter
  • Tolani Honeycomb scarf @ Shop Intuition
  • wooden hinge bangle @ Asos

  • how to wear the universally unflattering capri

    June 23rd, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $ Eight14 Hudson Tory Burch basics casual clothing pants

    We’ve all heard it a thousand times, capris are not flattering on most women. Yet, we can’t seem to get away from wearing them. For whatever the reason, capri’s seem to function for women. They function especially well for someone who is not comfortable in shorts, and it’s too hot out to wear full length pants. So, what’s a girl to do? Ok, we have found some variations that are flattering AND functional. The capri pant that looks the worst on women is the boxy cut that ends mid-calf. They don’t look very good because they make your legs look shorter and your body appear wider. Try going for a tapered capri - along the lines of a pedal pusher. It’s a more feminine cut and will narrow the leg. Another style that works as well as the capri is a longer short. This particular short will come to the knee or just below. Proportionally it works better on most than the capri does, and it’s more modern. We know you’re comfortable in your dependable capris, and they have become an easy “go to” piece. But check out a new style, and see if one of these cuts work for you. Who knows, you may like them better than the capris.

    “Yes” capris in this observation:

    Top Row:

  • The Kate Fit crop pant in stretch twill @ Victoria’s Secret
  • Hudson Stretch Denim Bermuda Shorts @ Nordstrom
  • cuffed seersucker shorts @ Newport News
  • The Marisa Fit wide leg crop pant in linen @ Victoria’s Secret


  • Bottom Row:

  • Foldover cargo crop pant in Tencel® @ Victoria’s Secret
  • Eight14 brushed twill trouser shorts @ Nordstrom
  • Tory Burch ‘Phillip’ crop pants @ Nordstrom
  • cuffed linen walk shorts @ Newport News

  • sail away in style

    May 28th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $ $$ $$$ Banana Republic J.Crew Juicy Couture Louis Vuitton accessories bracelets clothing handbags jewelry necklaces pants scarves shoes skirts sporty sunglasses swimsuits tops

    It’s crisp, refreshing, and an All-American look. Nautical inspired pieces make an appearance every summer. It’s a consistent, classic style that women always seem to welcome. Jackie Kennedy pulled this look off brilliantly. She looked great in a blue and white striped shirt with white pedal pushers and her signature giant sunglasses. There are so many ways to wear this style, we’re going to show you four. The first look is perfect for cocktails on the boat. White linen pants with sailor buttons, a yellow and white stripe tank, a bag made from recycled sails, an anchor necklace for added detail… and, of course, yellow aviators. It’s a relaxed casual chic that doesn’t come across as trying too hard. The next look is perfect for a day of boating. You’ll need your suit to catch some rays, a wide blue and white stripe is a classic. You might get cold after water skiing, so throw on a cute pair of anchor sweats, and a pop of red with a hoodie. Don’t forget your boat shoes, and a navy tote to hold your towels and ipod. The third look is great for everyday running around. A sailor tunic, paired with leggings or denim shorts. A boat bag that makes a great tote, and a pair of flat espadrilles. Add some fun jewelry, like an anchor necklace and a rope bracelet. You’ll look good and feel comfortable all day. The last look is a bit dressier. A white skirt with sailor button detail, mixed with an ocean colored striped sweater. Pop in a denim luxury bag, and tie an anchor scarf around the handle for effect. It’s the perfect outfit for an evening poolside or party on the beach. Even if you’re not near the ocean, this is a great style to embrace. Trust us, this style will be around for a long time, so it’s a good place to invest in important pieces. All aboard!

    items in this observation (clockwise):

    Top:

  • sailing beach bag @ Rugby (offline)
  • metal aviators @ Topshop
  • ‘Et Vous’ sailor pants @ La Redoute
  • Juicy Couture anchor pendant necklace @ Net-a-Porter
  • nautical striped tank @ Forever21


  • Right:

  • Xhilaration® stripe swim halter top with Owl embroidery @ Target
  • zip through hoody @ Asos
  • canvas beach tote @ J.Crew
  • Sperry Top-Sider® vulcanized boat shoe @ Nordstrom
  • Primp crop sweat pants @ lisa kline


  • Bottom:

  • anchor pendant necklace @ Banana Republic
  • Organic Stereo sailor stripe smock top @ Asos
  • Tidepool boat and tote @ L.L.Bean
  • Nantucket rope bracelet @ J.Crew
  • Unisa Brunello espadrilles @ Zappos


  • Left:

  • Selima aviators @ J.Crew
  • sheer rugby sweater @ Forever21
  • Laura Clement Crepe sailor’s skirt @ La Redoute
  • silk anchor handkerchief @ Forever21
  • Louis Vuitton monogram denim Néo cabby @ eLuxury

  • how to update your khaki look

    May 13th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $ $$ $$$$$ Camilla Skovgaard Celina Olga Pauric Sweeney Pringle of Scotland accessories basics bohemian bracelets casual clothing handbags jewelry pants scarves shoes skirts tops

    Khaki made it’s first appearance in the late 1800’s, as a part of a military dress code. Over the years it has made its way to the mainstream. It has become an American classic, and a staple that has a presence in every girl’s wardrobe. As of late, khaki has gone more modern. It’s no longer reserved for country club bound conservatives or prep school boys. Back in the day, khaki had a unisex feel to it. Khaki shorts and pants were boxy and not exactly flattering to the female form. Thankfully that is no longer the case. Now, there are a million ways to wear khaki and still look like a lady. We’ve put together two of our favorite ways to wear khaki this season. We love a full khaki skirt. It looks great with neutral, and even better with a pop of color. It’s incredibly versatile, and very functional. We also love the khaki pants in a modern cut. Consider a high waisted full pant, paired with an earthy top for a more bohemian feel. How are you wearing your khaki’s? If you have any new ideas, we would love to hear from you!

    items in this observation:

    left look:

  • Pringle of Scotland disc detail top @ Net-a-Porter
  • Nanette Lepore ‘Buy Me Love’ skirt @ Nordstrom
  • Camilla Skovgaard open toe upfront high heel pump @ Shopbop
  • Olga Coated canvas bowler @ hayden-harnett


  • right look:

  • Leopard hairband @ Topshop
  • Afra overprint knit tunic/wrap skirt @ hayden-harnett
  • Pauric Sweeney python shoulder bag @ Net-a-Porter
  • Celina signature cuff @ hayden-harnett
  • Nine West beaded toe Thong flat sandal @ Asos
  • pleat front wide leg linen pants @ Asos

  • the style observer on Access Hollywood

    May 9th, 2008 · posted by Michael J. Pratt in $ looks

    You may have caught the 4 minute segment on Access Hollywood a few minutes ago but there’s an extended version of Get the Sex and the City look for less on the Access Hollywood site. It goes into detail about each outfit, how to put it all together (the mission of style observer), how much and where to buy.

    what to wear on a girl’s shopping trip to paris?

    April 10th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $ $$$ $$$$$ Chanel Chloé L.A.M.B. Oliver Peoples Paul and Joe Sonia Rykiel Valentino accessories bracelets clothing coats handbags hats jewelry looks pants sunglasses tops

    From the minute you get off the plane, you can feel the energy that illuminates the city of light. The ride to the hotel is like driving through a beautiful painting. You want to immerse yourself as fast as you can, so that no time is wasted. A group of girls away for a few days, to do all the things girls like to do in Paris. The excitement bubbles up inside you. Free in a glamorous city, shopping, eating, and enjoying life. You’ve arrived! As you walk through the revolving door at The Ritz, you are immediately reminded of a famous Princess who walked through the same revolving door hours before her death. You briefly pause, and then walk to your room to get ready for your first day in Paris. What on earth are you going to wear shopping in the most glamorous city in the world? Well, one thing to remember is that you will be doing a lot of walking. So, choose your most comfortable, stylish shoes. The fashion should be urban chic with a sense of haute couture. It should be casual enough to wear all day, and fabulous enough to stop at a random cafe for lunch. You’ll want to have a bag big enough to carry all that you will need for the day ,including maps and all information on the city. You’re in Paris, so play the part. Kick your normal fashion up with a fun piece like a knit cap, or big sunglasses. Paris is about glamour, glamour, glamour. Embrace it, live the dream while you’re there. At the end of the day, you’ll crawl into your room, order cookies and hot chocolate, and wonder what they’re doing back home.

    items in this observation (clockwise):

  • Zig Zag knit beret @ Miss Selfridge
  • Sonia by Sonia Rykiel cotton trench @ Net-a-Porter
  • Oliver Peoples Ilsa sunglasses @ Net-a-Porter
  • Paul & Joe Miette smock top @ Net-a-Porter
  • Chanel Purple Logo cuff bracelet @ BagBorrowOrSteal
  • Chloe patent trim boots @ Net-a-Porter
  • L.A.M.B. “Margate” high waist stretch jeans @ Nordstrom
  • Valentino Nuage bag @ Saks