Beauty and the Green: 2011 trend

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Chic and Wild Safari Style!

When I think of Safari style, I am always amazed by how such wild and primitive elements can become so chic, sophisticated and understated at the same time. The mix of khaki, furs, animal prints and bold dramatic jewelry creates such a striking look.....one that I can never get enough of. Ever.

Safari style is a staple in decor and fashion. And, it has been for eons… well almost. You can find it pretty much everywhere. From high end furniture and couture clothing to dishes and throw cushions, the products are endless, the prices varied.

When it comes to animal prints though, a little goes a loooooooooooong way, especially in decor. Go wild but not too wild if you know what I mean. Start small. Try adding an accent pillow, rug, or accent chair. Stay away from too many pieces. Trust me, I have seen what too much animal print looks like and it aint pretty.

One of the wonderful things about Safari pieces is the way they easily blend with all styles of decor and fashion. From super traditional to the contemporary, this style is so versatile. Here are some of my favorite Safari fashion and decor looks/pieces. Take a walk on the wild side. Its hot! Cherio

Sunday, July 3, 2011

Celebrating The Red, White and Blue.....Nautical Style!

Nautical fashion is one of the hottest trends this summer and I couldn't be happier! I am a huge fan of this style and over the years have collected many pieces that are now staples in my closet. That's what I like about this look. The pieces are so amazingly versatile that they work well with lots of other pieces in my closet. Nautical looks can be dressed up or down in a snap too! And, they never get old....they only get better and more fabulous with time. Aye! Aye!, indeed.

Made fashionable by Coco Chanel in the 1920's, this look is crisp, clean, elegant and has a classic appeal that is beloved around the world. The main characteristics of this style are stripes, black, navy, red and white color combinations. I personally adore the casual understated glamour, especially the gold accents that are so popular with this style. It's the perfect finishing touch!

Nautical Fashion's best feature in my opinion is it's clean lines which makes it "figure friendly" on so many different shapes, silhouettes and sizes. This is also one of the reasons why this look has such staying power.

Though the Nautical trend is no stranger to most of us, this year it has taken the market by storm. There is a different spin on it this year though.....a really sophisticated yacht club infusion if you will. I love it! With July 4th approaching, Nautical style is the perfect solution for an independence outfit. The red, white, blue and black has never looked more chic! And, with so many Nautical clothes and accessories available now it is real easy to incorporate a little bit of this trend into your own wardrobe.

By simply adding a striped shirt, red belt, or navy blue hand bag you can transform an otherwise average outfit into this classic look. (Don''t forget to add gold for accessories.) Here are some ideas and inspiration outfits to kick you into Nautical mode. Happy independence day everyone!