Happy Fourth of July! Before you rush out to the BBQ, think about what you’re going to wear. Today is the day to whip out your red, white, and blue. As well as your stars and stripes, in favor of our country. Show flag colors on top, supported by some All-American Levi’s on bottom. Mix that with a celebratory star quilted bag, and classic Ray-Bans. While you’re certainly not looking like you’re at a costume party, you do look festive! Have fun today, enjoy the fireworks, and belt out “Born in the USA” with the Boss!!

patriotic items in this observation:

You can’t help but feel the energy from the rainbow of bags that are in stores right now. It’s such a refreshing change from the blacks and browns, that we’re simply drawn to the brighter colors. Though, just as we contemplate which color to buy, a million questions come to mind. What will I wear it with? How often can I really use a bag of this color? Will it be out of fashion next season? Is it worth it? Well, we can’t answer all those questions for you, but we can help you with the first one. You would be amazed at how many ways you can wear a vividly colored bag. One way is to pair it with a print. A bright bag makes a great anchor for a floral or a pattern. Another way is to pair it with another bright color, like a yellow bag with a bright blue dress. The idea is not to be too matchy, a bright blue bag with a green dress is unexpected but looks fabulous. Also, a bright bag can punch up a neutral or a basic color. A bright green bag with navy, or a yellow bag with grey will make the outfit pop into the now. Of course, it always look great with jeans and a white t-shirt. Basically, have fun with this trend. Don’t over-think it. Pick a bag in a shade that you love, and ultimately you’ll be happy with your purchase.

items in this observation (l to r):

Everybody is always talking about “the little black dress”, and how to hunt down the perfect one. Well, we actually think you need more than just one. We think you should acquire three or four perfect black dresses, one to suit every occasion. First, the formal black dress. This dress should be sleek and simple. That way you can mix it with pearls, diamonds, or no jewelry for a minimalist look. It should be the kind of dress you have tucked away in your closet, that looks perfect every time you whip it out. Next, the cocktail party dress. This dress is tailored, and slightly demure. It dresses up or down beautifully, depending on the accessories. For instance, a Thursday night cocktail party would call for gold jewelry, black leather pumps, and a small shoulder bag. Whereas, for a Saturday night you could pull out the heavy duty jewels, patent leather pumps, and a clutch. Then, the black wrap dress. This dress works on so many levels. It’s great for work, for a dinner date, or for an after work party. You can pair it with boots for a more casual chic look, or with pumps to dress it up a bit. Finally, the wild card. This dress is more fun and flirty. Choose a dress that is more festive, with added beading or intricate details. It’s the dress you wear to your friend’s birthday party, and dance all night long. The black dress is really versatile, that’s why so many of us migrate to it. Don’t limit yourself to only one, give yourself options. Go forth and find your four perfect black dresses!

Top Look:
Moschino plunge front dress
Chanel Classic bag with flap @ bagborroworsteal
Christian Louboutin Declic leather pumps
Right Look:
Rebecca Taylor beaded chiffon dress
Ghibli front row black patent leather clutch @ Forzieri
D&G Dolce & Gabbana patent carla peep toe pump @ eLuxury
Bottom Look:
Diane von Furstenberg volante wrap dress @ Net-a-Porter
Isabella Fiore ‘Wild Thing’ brooke satchel
Sergio Rossi Slouchy knee boots
Left Look:
McQ Draped dress @ Net-a-Porter
Aspects bow clutch with chain strap @ eBags
Giuseppe Zanotti Taz Swarovski embellished sandals @ Net-a-Porter