The OAK: Belts

Showing posts with label Belts. Show all posts

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Neon Lights

So long before it was a trend or even remotely cool to be getting neon manicures, I was shocking my father, mother, and every baby-boomer west of NYC with my ridiculously bright nails. I've been doing it for years to the dismay of the older generation who told me I had a fungus growing on my nails--but suddenly it's popular so I am going to have to stick my tongue out at everybody and say na-na-na-na-kish-kish.

But it appears that his neon trend has forayed into the fashion world as well and I LOVE it. You all can recall Brooklyn Decker's stellar Michael Kors dress to the Met Ball. Here's a reminder:

My ridiculous obsession and must-have/just-bought for the season is the Kate Spade Gold Coast Robin bag in neon pink. I am also ridiculously obsessed with the Essex Scout bag which comes in yellow and orange too, as well as some neutrals (see below with Bryce Dallas Hwoard):

So what will be your neon obsession this season? Well I have put together a list of some pretty awesome neon brights to light up your day and your season. Explore and go crazy, and then proceed to stick out your tongues at everybody who who condemns color!

Double Breasted Blazer

Skinny Patent Belt

Pleated Skirt

Cashmere-blend sweater dress

Lightweight Boat-Neck Tee

Double Cloth Sheath Skirt

ASOS Midi Dress in Stripe Print

Tie-Front Cardigan

HIGH HEELED POINTED COURT SHOE

Slubby Striped Roll-Up Tee

THREE-TONE FLAT SANDAL

Well, if I didn't just completely blind you, I hope you embrace the hint of 80's that this trend brings and sport some true and tried neon. See you (from a mile away) later.

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Spring Forward!

I have a confession to make to you all.

So, as you are all very much aware, the weather in New York has been beyond miserable this Winter. (P.S. I am blaming Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt for these weather catastrophes all over the world; I think God is still punishing us for their sins. Just saying.) Because of this gloomy, yucky, weather, I have been forced to wear outfits that are mostly black and contain almost no color whatsoever. I am a bona fide frummie.

Eek! Fear not though, because I am still donning my sky-high heels; but alas, I have been wearing the typical frummie uniform for far too many weeks now, and I need color back in my life!

There are two ways to rectify this most depressing of situations; first, Spring needs to come A.S.A.P. Second, I need to go shopping.

Since there are just 13 glorious days and counting till that most auspicious vernal equinox, I have decided to soak up what little New York sun there is by perusing my favorite stores for some bright colored, hot ticket items that will make the birds chirp, the bees buzz and any other Spring/Summer idiom I can muster up. Somebody get me a floral print, stat!

Embellished Tunic
Start off with something soft. Literally, what is softer than silk, and this blouse has just the right punch for spring and is perfect for the office. Pair with a cardigan if those sleeves are not long enough for you

ASOS Midi Pleated Knitted Skirt

If this skirt doesn't hit your tznius little knee, I don't know what will!

Silk Tiered Racerback Dress

I own it. I live in it. I love it.

River Island Crochet Frill Hem Sweater

Crocheted knits are HUGE this Spring. Check out this sweater out!

Dyed Slub Cardigan

You know very well how I feel about cardigans, so then my love for this next item should be as clear to you as a Spring day without rain.

Rodebjer Marble Printed Blouse

I am going to purchase this shirt the second I get out of work. Love, love, love.

Pleated Color Block Dress

Go for a splash of color with this fabulous dress. Slip a black blazer over the dress for the office and cardigan for your weekends.

Cute Ruffle Vest

Romance and ruffles are the perfect accents for a spring fling!

Floral Print Chiffon Dress

Hello, affordable and adorable.

Sparkle Snap Belt

Polish off any outfit with a waist-cincher that is sure to catch an eye or two.

So, are you all ready for spring? Take a cue or two from here and try to incorporate soft colors, fabrics and textures into your spring clothing. Don't be afraid of florals, and remember that those winter blues (and blacks!) are meant for the winter only.

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

The Belt Parkway

No, not the highway--don't even get me started on that pitiful excuse of a road.

True story: If there is one thing that this terrible slow has been impinging on, it's been my exercise regimen. Not only can I not go to gym, but being forced to stay indoors is expanding my waistline to the point of no return.

If you're anything like me, you need a quick fix for your office (and weekend) outfits, and nothing says "waist-cinching" like a belt. Standing up straighter would help, too, but since I am not your mother, I will not preach to you the importance of posture.

Belts have this funny little way of bringing everything together and, when worn correctly, make you look slim in all the right places. Remember, you are cinching your waist, and nothing else--belts do NOT belong on the hips... that's where the donuts and chocolate go.

Here are a few belts you can use to taper that fabulous but winter-worn waist of yours.

Never Belt This Way
I love this one, because there are no notches--just tie and wear.