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Paris Fashion Week. Show Reviews. #PFW

Paris Fashion Week – Spring 2016.

Alexander McQueen, McQueen, Paris Fashion Week, PFW, runway, Alexander McQueen Spring, Alexander McQueen Spring 2016 Runway, runway reviewAlexander McQueen.
I’ve always had an appreciation for Lee McQueen and  his namesake label. After his death and seeing the exhibit Savage Beauty at The Met in NYC, the appreciation only increased. Sarah Burton has done a wonderful job continuing on in the spirit of the house. With this spring collection she embraced the less severe and gave us a beautifully ethereal McQueen girl. The lace work, floral patterns, and intentional tailoring came together to show us the softer side of Alexander McQueen.

Valentino, Valentino runway, Valentino Spring 2016, Paris Fashion Week, PFWValentino.
Favorite show of the season. The design duo Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccoli really brought us something special. The inspiration was Africa, and not in the typical safari reference. They were reminded of the thousands of refugees from countries like Senegal, Nigeria, Eritrea, Mali, Gambia that are making the treacherous trip across the Mediterranean for a chance at life in southern Italy. The designers wanted to embrace the cultures, much like embracing those coming into their country.

From Vogue.com: We probably feel that the greatest privilege in doing our work is that fashion can give a message,” said Chiuri. “We think every person coming here is an individual, and we can show that we can improve ourselves by understanding other cultures.”
“The message,” added Piccioli, “is tolerance. And the beauty that comes out of cross-cultural expression.

The show is a beautiful fusion of Italian and African influences. I loved that a Valentino collection was able to step outside the Victorian, romantic, lace-wrought collections of late. While there still is lace, the studded leather, bone jewelry, and tribal prints were done in such a way that respects the culture. Fashion can often be fleeting and without meaning, but these designers were sure to use their platform to say something, beautifully.

Elie Saab, Elie Saab runway, Elie Saab Spring 2016, Paris Fashion Week, PFW, Elie Saab fashion week, Elie Saab runway showElie Saab.
Gowns galore is usually the story at Elie Saab. This season’s collection was not without gowns, but Elie gave us something new and fresh with an offering of separates geared towards a younger customer. With Kylie Jenner and Gigi Hadid walking the show in these new silhouettes, you can tell the brand is trying to broaden its range. I appreciate the transition Elie Saab is trying to make. This is how you appeal to a new customer while keeping your long-time core happy. ahem, Saint Laurent.

Chanel, Chanel runway show, Chanel Spring 2016, Paris Fashion Week, PFW, Karl LagerfeldChanel.
Airport travel chic as envisioned by Karl Lagerfeld. Not much needs to be said for a Chanel runway show. Karl always gives us fantasy and whimsy along with the classic tweed. I guess we have reason not to wear yoga pants and UGGs while traveling now.

What did you think about Paris fashion week? What shows were your favorites? Any trends you’re excited to try?

xo, c.

PS. Still time to enter my giveaway. Click here for details.

Linking up with: Myriad Musings, I do DeClaire, Shopping My Closet, Classy Yet Trendy

Fall Color Combination: Desert Sage. + Giveaway!

Did you know that there is an organization that decides the color palette for each season? If you’ve ever heard of Pantone colors, that’s them. You’ll find that most of the clothing and accessories offered each season fall somewhere in the color range they have set. Pantone is doing what we call fashion forecasting, predicting and establishing the trends about 8 months ahead of the season. They work so far in advance to bring us the colors we will all be wearing  for the season. While all of us were ready for summer back in March, the colors for this fall were already out. They are such an authority on color that fashion designers and retailers look to them for color direction when they go to design or buy a collection.

fall color, fall green, sage, desert sage, pantone fall 2015, pantone color, fall pantone color, fall fashion

ASOS COLLECTION ASOS Jacket in Bonded Knit • $51.50 • Asos
3.1 Phillip Lim – Pebbled Leather Medium Pashli • $895 • Scoop NYC
Shaoxing Lidong Trading Co Style Study Skirt • $59.99 • ModCloth
Dress the Population ‘Beverly’ Sequin Chiffon Minidress • $198 • Nordstrom
Superga ‘Cotu’ Sneaker • $64.95 • Nordstrom

One of the colors for this fall that really grabbed my attention is called desert sage. This muted green shade is perfect for fall and the changing weather. Take a look at some clothing and accessories in this beautiful shade.

The importance of neutrals continues to evolve with Desert Sage, a cool and soothing greenish-gray that serves as the ideal neutral across the Fall 2015 palette. Timeless and unobtrusive, yet powerful enough to make a statement on its own, Desert Sage speaks to the feeling of naturally inspired colors that remind us of things that are real and not invented.

Shop more desert sage picks!

And now for the GIVEAWAY!

she in the making, hand lettering, maya angelou quote

I don’t know about you, but I just love hand-lettered prints. I love how the personality of the individual shines through. If you have ever wanted to learn just how to hand letter, now is your chance! She, In The Making will be hosting a lettering workshop in just a few weeks, on October 17th. Not only will it be a fun and creative time, sips and bites will be provided along with all the tools you’ll need. All skill levels are welcome! Get all of the details here.

The print above is just a sample of the beautiful work that Kelsey does! The quote by Maya Angelou are great words to live by. And to share the love, I’ll be sending one lucky reader a print of their own! All you have to do is sign up for The Block is Haute newsletter. (sent out weekly with post recaps and exclusive styling and closet organization tips)

Just click below!

Join the party at The Block is Haute!
* indicates required




xoxo.
-c.

Linking up with: Mix & Match Fashion, Living In Color Style, Doused in Pink, A Labour of Life, #WIWT

Finally Feeling Fall.

Finally.

The weather is finally turning and it’s starting to feel like fall here in the great state of Texas. Tonight I drove with the windows down and it was such a great feeling. To celebrate the arrival of fall weather, I’m excited to post this look that feels so right for the season.

fall dress, booties, gold booties, boots, steve madden booties, francesca's, coffee, fall outfit, fall style, autumn, orange dress, printed dress

The great thing about this blog is the wonderful stories that you come away with. This location almost got my photographer and I arrested. Okay….maybe not quite but I think we were trespassing. [Sorry business owners!] We saw the cute table and wonderful orange window and felt like it was so perfect for this outfit, never mind that it was behind a gate. The gate was open – and we went in! There were definitely security cameras around too. I’m just thankful we didn’t trip an alarm. That is why you need a fearless photographer. This girl knows how to pick her shots!

fall dress, orange dress, francesca's, orange, fall style, fall outfit, booties, gold booties, steve madden booties, fall boots, ankle boots, coffee, starbucks

orange dress, printed fall dress, fall outfit, fall dress, autumn dress, booties, gold booties, ankle booties, steve madden booties, fall boots

fall outfit, fall dress, orange dress, printed orane dress, fall style, booties, gold booties, ankle booties, steve madden booties, fall boots, cute fall boots

While I love summertime when you can wear shorts and sandals, fall style really opens up your wardrobe. I’ve been so excited to finally put this dress on. Although it is on the shorter side, the colors are the perfect fall color palette. You all know I’m not always a print girl but I found this number during a shopping trip with mom. I was skeptical when she first picked it up and then she made me try it on — and I liked it right away. [thanks mom!]

fall style, fall dress, printed dress, orange, gold booties, ankle booties, steve madden booties, fall boots

fall style, fall outfit, orange dress, booties, gold booties, ankle booties, steve madden booties, starbucksPhotography: Dusty Rose Darling

Outfit details:
Similar dresses: here, here, and love this one | Booties: similar, similar, great option

Once the weather gets even more cool, I’ll throw on some tights and a chunky sweater with this dress. Can’t wait!

How are you all embracing the weather change with your style?

xoxo,
-c.

 

Linking up with: Confident Twosday, Style Elixir, The Fashion Canvas, Shopping My Closet, Classy Yet Trendy, The Pleated Poppy, The Penniless Socialite, #WIWT, Pink Sole, Style Nudge, Fizz and Frosting

September Stripes.

Polka dots. Leopard print. Stripes. As far as prints go, I don’t stray far from these three. Can’t quite say which is my favorite because they’re all pretty heavy in rotation. Beware: windblown hair below.

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Today’s post is about one of my favorite items in my closet. Before we officially step into October and into fall, I had to post one of my favorite blog outfits to date. Being a blogger, you get to see the outfits of so many stylish people. This was one of those cases when I just had to grab this dress. I saw on Allison of Two Thirty Five Designs and immediately went on the hunt to find it.

black and white , maxi dress     the_block_is_haute-152

The dress was a Target steal (don’t you love that?). It reminds me of a dress from my favorite designer Oscar de la Renta. I love when you can get designer inspired style on a budget. Black and white stripes are so classic. I love the bold statement that the pattern makes as well. I even have a black and white striped wall in my apartment (DIY) which shows you just how much I love this pattern.

Oscar de la Renta, spring 2013, black and white, Oscar de la Renta black and white, Oscar de la Renta striped dress

Maxi dresses are another great option for the transitioning weather in the fall. With a wrap or cardigan this dress is perfect for those days that are crisp and cool in the morning but feel like summer by noon.

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the_block_is_haute-155

My wonderful photographer Izehi and I had so much fun on this shoot. We found a sweet spot by the lake and got a few snaps in on a hot summer evening. It’s always a joy to shoot with this lady. The detail shots she captured are just amazing. We didn’t even get the keyhole back but it’s an added bonus!

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What are some of your closet icons? Any favorite designer inspired outfits?
xoxo,
cymone.

 

Linking up with Confident Twosday — Shopping My Closet — Classy Yet Trendy — Living In Color Style — Happiness at Mid-Life — Mix & Match Fashion

Fall Blooms.

fall outfit, flare jeans, flares, jeans, pop of color, outfit inspiration

Today I bring you another great transition look for these early fall days.

This outfit is super easy, simple for anyone to recreate. A short sleeve sweater or sweatshirt dressed up with a fabulous pair of flares with colorful accessories make dressing for the transitioning weather quite a breeze.

jeans, flare jeans, flares, fall outfit, outfit inspiration, natural hair, curls, twistout

Jeans can often mean comfort and casual, but I like to make a statement, even in jeans. Flares are so in right now, and let me tell you, I’m so glad that they are back in style. I was the flare queen back in 1998-2002. I had to have my flare jeans and platform shoes. But looking back, as hard as I tried, my middle school self was nowhere near as chic or put together as the flare outfits of today. Middle school was definitely awkward for me…but I eventually discovered my personal style.

Now I’m more polished [thankfully] and actually know what I’m doing when putting together an outfit. For flare jeans, you want to make sure they fit in the waist, are fitted through the leg, and break into the flare lower on the leg.

flare jeans, flares, jeans, fall outfit, twistout, natural hair, kate spade bag

Haute Tip: Always wear your favorite wedges when shopping for flare jeans. Flares with flats doesn’t really work. You’ll want to make sure that the length is right. The jeans should cover the shoe and just graze the floor.

[Fit is everything so it’s important to find what works for your body type.]

natural hair, twistout, jeans, flares, flare jeans, kate spade bag

DSC_0603-7[Photos by the lovely Dusty Rose Darling Photography]

Details:
Top: LOFT (old, similar here and here) | Jeans: Hudson | Bag: Kate Spade (similar)

Shop my flare picks:

J Brand and Hudson jeans have some of my favorite flare silhouette jeans. Check them out!

Are you into bringing back flare jeans?

Time to kick it up for fall,
xoxo. | cymone.

 

Linking up with Living In Color Style, The Red Closet Diary, Mix & Match Fashion, The Closet by Christie, Rachel the Hat

Transition to Fall.

layers, layering, chambray, black and white, transition, fall layers, fall outfit

Happy first day of fall! According to the calendar, September 23rd marks the first day of fall — but tell that to our Texas weather. The forecast is mid-nineties all week. I have noticed a change in the morning and evening temps so, we’re getting there.

PS. – How is it already September 22nd??

layering, layers, fall outfit, transitioning, black and white, chambray

Since I can’t quite wear my booties and scarves (I really want to though!) I’ve decided to talk about transitioning to your fall wardrobe. You can’t quite rock the sweaters but tank tops aren’t enough for the cooler mornings. For me, the transition is all about layering. You want to find the balance in your wardrobe when heading into the fall season. It’s a pretty fun time to explore your closet. It’s the only time of year where you can easily pull together summer gear and fall staples which means the options are endless!

chambray, black & white, layers, layering, fall outfit, transition outfit

Layers are the key to maximizing your closet in the early fall months.

Throw a cardigan on over a summer dress or pair lightweight sweaters with shorts for weekend wear.

Always think about your proportions – only one aspect of your outfit will be on the heavy side. For example a fun bootie with shorts and a long sleeve tee or maybe your favorite summer dress worn with that chunky sweater you’ve been dying to start wearing again.

J. Crew chambray, LOFT dress, layering

The great thing about layers is that you can remove and add as needed. Gives your wardrobe much more flexibility.

Just the other day, I came up with a cute new outfit using these ideas. I wore a cropped sweater with a midi skirt that I normally wear with a short sleeve tee. I received lots of compliments and created a new outfit by wearing something from the fall side of my closet.

(Just kidding. There isn’t warm vs. cold in my closet….just organized by color!)

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J. Crew, chambray shirt, layers, layering, fall dressing

chambray, layering, black & white, LOFT dress, sandals, fall outfit

dress: LOFT (similar, similar, and here) | sandals: Gentle Souls | chambray shirt: J. Crew (get a few)

Here’s to an exciting fall!
I’ve been thinking about my goals I set in the beginning of the year. I’ve accomplished a lot but I still have work to do! Finish strong!

xoxo,
cymone.

Linking up with: Classy Yet Trendy, Pink Sole

[Photos by the lovely Dusty Rose Darling Photography]

A New York Fashion Week State of Mind.

It’s September, and that means two things. Football & fashion week. While I’m super pumped that football is back (college & NFL) this post will be about the latter. New York Fashion Week is here. It’s definitely a big deal in the fashion industry but if you aren’t familiar here’s a few bits of info:

  • It’s a fashion girl’s dream to attend (I’ll get there one day!) & the most exciting time of the year.
  • Fashion week is really more like fashion month – all the fashion weeks around the world are back to back. (London, Milan, Paris are the major weeks to follow through October 8th)
  • Fashion week is always a season ahead – this September we will be seeing Spring 2016 collections.
  • Buyers from the top department stores are attending the shows and make appointments to start their selection process.
  • Some of the best parties between celebs, models, and designers happen during this time. Stay tuned to insta!
  • Fashion notables & blogger favorites from all over the world come out during fashion month, so bring your very best.

I’ll be doing a round up of my favorite shows later this week – come back to check out what’s to come for Spring 2016.

Which brings me to today’s post. Even though I didn’t make it to New York this year, I decided to show and outfit I might wear. Tell me what you think!

fashion week, NYFW, fashion week, pink dress, guiseppe zanotti
street style, NYFW, fashion week, style , pink dress, giuseppe zanotti

fashion week, new york, blogger downtown dallas, downtown, NYFW, street style, pink dress, giuseppe zanotti heels
 fashion week, new york fashion week, NYFW, black & white clutch, pink dress, giuseppe zanotti heels

My photographer Dusty Rose Darling Photography really did some great work on this one! We had so much fun with this theme, we just couldn’t stop shooting!


pink dress, new york fashion week, fashion week, nyc, NYFW, giuseppe zanotti heels


Share your thoughts! Is this something you could see at New York Fashion Week? What would you wear if you get the chance to go?

Until next #NYFW,
xoxo.
-c.

 

Linking up with: Pink Sole — Mahogany Closet — Style Nudge — Beauty By Miss L — Still Being Molly — I do DeClaire — Tuesday Talk — Style Nudge

Pastel Party. Lavender & Coral.

Hello Tuesday!

Today on the blog, we’re having a pastel party! Pastels aren’t only for spring, they also work in the summer season. I love the light and airy feel that pastels give. What’s fun is bringing in a pop of color to keep things interesting.

pastel, equipment, silk top, lavender, sleeveless top, silk shirt, button down top

This lavender look gets a little punch with help from its friend coral. Gold accessories and a printed clutch are the perfect accents to round out this simple outfit. Style reminder: Dark denim will never let you down.

Haute tip: Have fun with color! Pastel shades are a great way to experiment in the color spectrum.

 You can be understated yet still make a statement.

lavender, coral, equipment, silk top, silk button down, high waist jeans, dark denim, steve madden

shoes, heels, steve madden, coral, lace up heels

heels, steve madden, shoes, coral, pastel, lace up heels,

top: Equipment (must-have) | jeans: Paige, loving these too | shoes: DV Dolce Vita, also in black | bag: Deux Lux, and here in a different color

I’ve learned that simple doesn’t have to be boring. This sleeveless silk Equipment top has gotten so much wear, and I am always looking for the next color to add to my closet. Anyone can wear this top. The length is great, they definitely don’t skimp on the fabric. You can dress it up with a blazer, or be perfectly casual by wearing a cardigan over it with a fun-printed belt for some interest.

PS. – Last Call by Neiman Marcus usually has Equipment tops on sale, that’s where I go to stock up!

#LiveLovely,
xoxo. | cymone.

 

Linking with: Chic Street Style, Classy Yet Trendy, Color and Grace, Shopping My Closet, Living In Color Style, Mix & Match Fashion

Violet Bohemian.

Let’s get this week started!

How was everyone’s weekend? I was gone all last week at a work conference where our brands debut the Fall product and new launches. I hated not being able to work on the blog. After the 5 days of back to back to back meetings, I finally got some rest and a renewed strength. So much to do but gotta keep going!

Since summer is such a freeing season, I wanted to make sure my inner bohemian is satisfied before the cooler weather starts to kick in. Although I don’t wear it often, this bohemian dress is one of my favorites.

I bought this boho/peasant inspired dress in “The Alley”, a shopping area in downtown Los Angeles, when we were visiting during a family reunion trip. I then wore it when we dropped my younger brother off at college in Atlanta, Georgia.  I love when clothing is tied to memory and meaning.

bohemian dress, boho chic, summer dress, bohemian dress, purple dress, boho, tassels, sandals, summer sandals, clutch,

bohemian dress, violet bohemian, boho, bohemian, boho chic, boho dress, purple dress, casual summer dress, gladiator sandals

Just asked my brother what year he started college. [My memory is starting to get bad, okay.] This dress is at least 8 years old y’all. Good thing trends come back full circle!

snake clutch, snakeskin bag, purse, clutch

dress: old, similar here, & here | sandals: Sam Edelman & here in olive green | clutch: Francesca’s, similar here, here, here | earrings: Influence (gift from the fabulous boutique The Pink House)

pink earrings, boho, stud earrings, colorful studs, pink studs, pink accessories

gladiator sandals, sam edelman, sam edelman sandals, summer sandals

bohemian dress, violet bohemian, boho chic, bohemian, boho dress, summer dress, purple dress, gladiator sandals, snake clutch, clutch purse, envelope clutch, gladiator sandalsphoto credit: Izehi Photography

Haute tip: Pair solid accessories with solid clothing. My dress is solid purple, so my jewelry is solid as well. I wanted a contrast, so I picked a burnt orange ring and hot pink earrings. Because they are one color instead of patterned, the jewelry compliments the dress instead of distracting.

 Shop the post:

Linking up with: Beauty by Miss L — Pink Sole — Style Elixir — I do DeClaire — Myriad Musings — Sandy a la Mode — Two Peas in a Blog — Classy Yet Trendy — Living in Color Style

August Style Tips.

Every month brings a new set of style codes to think about when shopping. Using some simple tips will help you focus and prepare for the style season ahead. August is the beginning of the transition into the new season as summer winds down. [sad day.] While Texas doesn’t really “do” fall, we still love to dress like it. Here are my style tips for August dressing.

 

style tips, LuLu*s striped dress, Steve Madden finge heels, red coach bag, karen walker sunglasses

add a chic tan sweater + booties = fall perfection.

via Straight A Style

1. Shop for pieces to transition into fall.
– Lightweight sweaters and dresses, plus layering items that you can wear with tights and booties. Cardigans in neutral colors, multiple pairs of tights, long sleeve slub knit tees are on my list.

Shop these picks:

Victoria’s Secret Mesh High-Next Bikini Top

2. Stock up on swimsuits for next year.
– Buy that swimsuit you’ve had your eye on all season. Grab bikini tops or bottoms in solids or simple prints that can mix & match with your current stash. It’s also a great time to add a coverup to your collection, kimono styles are my favorite. Try a new cut top or bikini bottom, it’s on sale right? See my picks here.

lounge pants, pajama pants, travel style pants, style tips

via Pinterest

3. Travel in Style.
– Whether you’re heading back to school from summer break or taking in one last vacation before summer’s end, there are endless ways to travel in style. Chic pajama pants and big totes are my travel go-to items.

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be bold. say yes to color.

via Color Me Courtney

4. Finish the summer on a bold note.
– You all know I’m all about a color pop. Make the most of the sunshine by wearing the heck out of your bright colors.

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summer is THE time to rock a white jumpsuit. don’t miss out.

via Alwayz Fashionably Late

5. Summer whites.
– I somehow always find myself wishing I had worn more white during the summertime. Not that you have to stick to the old adage of “no white after Labor Day” but once the weather starts to transition, so should your wardrobe color palette. Wear all your white dresses, jeans, and tops until you can’t anymore!

*Also, if you haven’t entered the giveaway trip to NYC during Fashion Week + shopping spree – go now. Click to read more & enter! Only a few days left!!*


Did you like these tips?
Let me know if this was helpful!
xoxo,
-c.

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