resort 2014

Trend of the moment: black metal

 in Handbags / Jewelry / Shoes / Trends  tagged black / fall 2013 / resort 2014 / spring 2014 / street style trends / winter 2014 by

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Gloves / Bracelets / Watch / Ring / Shoes

One of the big trends to come out of Paris and Milan is the black metal trend. Over the past few years we have seen a big uptick in non-traditional colored metals used in jewelry. One of the popular colored metals in fine jewelry has been black. While this may not seem like an odd color for metal, being that iron is often black, it is not a traditional metal color for jewelry. David Yurman even used blackened silver in his special “Ice” collection for Neiman Marcus several years ago.

As we entered 2013, designers began to use black on items such as handbags and shoes in lieu of traditional yellow, silver or rose-gold metals. The black metal hardware used in accessories offered an edgy yet understated look to luxurious items such as Chanel’s “So Black” classic flap handbag and Valentino’s “Rockstud” handbags and shoes.

With the uptick in black metal being used in accessories, more designers and brands are starting to use black metal in their pieces as an alternative to traditional metals. While black metal will never replace gold, silver or rose-gold metals, it is definitely enjoying its’ place in the accessory spotlight at the moment. It may even be possible that black metal becomes a quiet classic in the accessories hardware department; and possibly in the jewelry department too!

What are your thoughts on black metal? Is this a trend you enjoy wearing? Do you envision it becoming classic over time?

Black metal accessories from around the web:

Laura Mercier Butterfly Wings nail polish review

 in Beauty / Nail Polish  tagged classic style / holiday gift ideas / holidays 2013 / laura mercier / resort 2014 / reviews / winter 2014 by

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Pictured: Nail Polish: c/o Laura Mercier “Butterfly Wings“ two coats color, one base coat. Photo taken outside in cloudy weather.

Laura Mercier’s new “Butterfly Wings” nail polish offers an on trend, yet classic look. One of the biggest trends in fashion right now is the iridescent look. Iridescent hues have been popping up on everything from handbags to shoes to clothing; and of course on nail polish! Laura Mercier’s “Butterfly Wings” offers that “of-the-moment” iridescent look in a classic, cool pink which is edgy and sleek.

“Butterfly Wings” by Laura Mercier is perfect for the winter 2014 season, the holiday 2013 season; and as we move into resort 2014. The soft, cool pink with an iridescent look blends well with the current season’s color palette. “Butterfly Wings” plays well with winter 2014’s pastels and holidays hues such as red, green and metallics. Laura Mercier’s “Butterfly Wings” also works well with resort 2014’s bright colors, cobalt hues and colorful patterns. This is an easy color to wear every day and every night throughout the season! After all, who has time during the holiday season to paint their nails every day to match a different outfit? Not me!

I absolutely adore the iridescent pink hue of Laura Mercier’s “Butterfly Wings” nail polish for winter, the holidays and as we move into the resort/cruise season. This is a great color to wear all the time.

I tested Laura Mercier’s “Butterfly Wings” with one base coat and two coats of color; no top coat. The polish lasted six days without chipping! Love that!

Laura Mercier’s “Butterfly Wings” nail polish is limited edition and priced at $18. If can be found online here.

Street Style Trends 2013 into 2014: Laced Up High Heel Sandals

 in General Fashion / Shoes / Trends  tagged black / resort 2014 / sandals / spring 2014 / street style trends / winter 2014 by

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Photo: Rebecca Minkoff shoes / Essie Nail Polish “For The Twill of It“

There is a hot trend in shoes on the streets, and it is taking fashionable closets by storm. Fashionistas have been spotted everywhere wearing high heeled, black sandals, which can double as pumps, with laces! That’s right! The hottest shoe trend to hit the streets is the laced up high heeled sandal.

This hot shoe trend hit the streets back in spring 2013, but it did not explode until winter 2014. Not dominant on the runway, consumers favored the style when it hit store shelves earlier this year and in response, designers, brands and stores have stocked their shelves for the fall/winter 2013/2014 season with the daring style. This is not a conservative look; these shoes are attention grabbers!

There are several variations of the laced up high heel shoe. Some designers have a true lace-up where the wearer must tie her shoes, while others have false laces that look more like a series of thin straps rather than laces. Both styles are relevant, and fit perfectly into this hot trend.

The laced-up high heel is a great addition to any Fashionistas’ wardrobe. The shoe style can be worn dressed up with skirts, dresses and trousers as well as casually with denim skirts, jeans and sweat-suit trousers. They can be worn during the day, or for evening events. This is one versatile shoe style!

I found a few fabulous pairs of laced-up high heels in black; the hottest hue for this even hotter street style trend. I hope you love them! Happy shopping, and stay fabulous 😉