Fab Trend: Long Sleeved Mini Dress

*Gucci Fall 2009*

A must-have for upcoming fall season is the long sleeved mini dress. As I've stated before, I like highlighting one aspect of the body. Keeping the sleeves long definitely shows off the legs. It's all about legs for fall! Go for a body-con dress if you're feeling a little provocative or daring, or a loose fitting one for a more casual feel. Sequined mini dresses are always fun and flirty, and a great option for a night look. As the weather gets colder, pair these with tights and little ankle booties. Absolute perfection.

Click on images to purchase

Fab Trend: Zip It Up!

I recently found myself drawn to things with zippered detailing. Whether it be on shoes, dresses, or skirts, I've been obsessed with zippers. Not only is it functional, but it also serves as a pretty cool adornment. There is something about zipper detailing that is playful and edgy. I created a mini collage of items that have caught my eye while browsing online. My favorite thing has got to be the Sergio Rossi heels (#6) in "lagoon." The love the bandaged straps and the subtle zipper on the back of the heel. However, I found something oddly similar here. Talk about the look for less! Now, if only I had the paycheck to buy everything featured!

1. Strapless Zipper Dress-$395 at Madison
2 Christian Louboutin Pillow Zip Clutch-$1,095 at Net-a-Porter
3. Marc by Marc Jacobs Zipper Charm Studs- $68 at Bloomingdales
4. Zipper Jersey dress-$495 at Net-a-porter
5. Zipper Spiral Front Top-$17.80 at Forever 21
6. Sergio Rossi Elastic Zipper Sandal-$695 at Neiman Marcus
7. Crinkle Tiered Skirt-$17.80 at Forever 21
8. Denim Zipper Dress- $22.80 at Forever 21
9. Christian Louboutin-price unknown
10. One shoulder Zipper Tank-$38 at Urban Outfitters

Fab Trend: Watch Necklaces

I was on Macys.com and came across this Marc by Marc Jacobs zipper watch necklace. This necklace is so adorable; the gold isn't too yellow or overbearing, and the teardrop shape is very sleek. I've seen watch necklaces at various stores, but never gave it a second thought. After seeing this zipper pendant, I was inspired to look into different types of watch necklaces. You can essentially wear these pieces with anything and everything! The first/second row of necklaces are very versatile, so feel free to experiment-whether it be with a casual knit dress or bold colored top. The third/fourth row of pendants are more antique and have a vintage feel to them, therefore, I would pair these pieces with more feminine and flirty attire like the ones shown below. The last row (both Marc by Marc Jacobs) are more youthful and fresh, and I would wear them with anything--you can never go wrong in jeans and a fitted tee! What a cool way to tell time! *Click images to purchase

Fab Trend: Rhinestone Necklaces

On a recent trip to Forever 21, I was amazed by how much sparkle there was in the jewelry section. There were oversized necklaces galore, adorned with huge colorful rhinestones. I picked up a necklace (see above) and wasn't even sure myself if I could pull it off without looking like I was trying too hard. I consulted in my shopping buddy and she said to go for it. The first time I wore it out, I instantly covered it with a blazer because I just thought it was too much (I am not always the most brave when it comes to new trends!). However, this past weekend, I decided to venture and try it out when I went shopping. I wore it with a plain black tee and dark washed jeans (nothing else. No watch, no ring, not even small studded earrings). The verdict? Positive! I had four random people compliment the necklace and I felt better about wearing it out. So, I encourage you to wear that huge sparkly necklace and stand out from the crowd! Below are some more options, which can all be found at Forever 21. If you still feel like these necklaces are too much, then try for a smaller option (first image below).

Fab Trend: Military Jackets

I'm always looking for an updated look or a new style to clothing, so it was a matter of time before I discovered the military jacket. I know this has been featured in several runway shows in the past, but it took a while for me to fully embrace this trend. I love the balance of the strong and structured, yet feminine style of these jackets. You can pair them with skinny jeans or even a voluminous skirt. Either way, you are bound to look like you are ready to take on the world in your suit of armor!

Fab Trend: Tulip Skirts

Looking for a way to play up your average boring skirt? Try investing in a tulip skirt! They come in many lengths, volume, and shapes and are flattering on all body types. I love the structure of these skirts and how it offers a beautiful, yet different silhouette. Again, like most skirts, they are versatile. For the office, you can wear them with tights and pumps for the Fall or Winter or with peep toe shoes for the Spring and Summer. However, if you want to go for something edgier, you can wear them with booties or gladiator heels. No matter what, you are guaranteed to look fashion forward!

Fab Trend: Gladiator Heels

Last Spring/Summer, I was introduced to the gladiator sandal. I must admit, I did not like them at all, but after seeing people wear them, they have grown on me. Even though I love flats, everyone that knows me knows that I would much rather be in heels than in anything else. So when I saw the gladiator sandal transform into heels, I knew I had to have a pair. I have tried on so many pairs, and although I love them all, I haven't found the perfect gladiator heels that meet my criteria: affordable, comfortable, and made of decent quality. Sometimes the heel is too chunky or too short, or the color doesn't look right, or the style isn't what I'm looking for. I want my shoes to be multi-functional: I want to be given the option to wear them with jeans or with a dress.

Last week, I entered my look book to a fashion website, and surprisingly won top 3. As my prize, I have received a $100 gift certificate to Zappos.com, which is an online retailer that specializes in selling shoes (but have now expanded to clothing, accessories, and handbags as well) of all styles, sizes, widths, and colors. I began my search for the perfect gladiator heel, and have found so many styles that I am in love with. I have posted some of my findings below (click on them to see where you can purchase them), but I think I have narrowed my search to the last 2 images below. The first one is by Jessica Simpson (in brown) and the second one is by Nine West (black patent). Although both styles come in various colors, I want to go for a basic color so I can wear it with everything. Which pair do you think I should go for? Comment below!

Fab Trend: Going Tribal

On a recent shopping trip, I've noticed a lot of ethnic, tribal prints popping up in several stores from Forever 21 to Bergdorf Goodman. These prints are in all types of merchandise--shoes, accessories, clothing, and even furniture. Incorporating colorful prints into your wardrobe will take your outfit from drab to fab (I couldn't resist the rhyme)! I'm really into pairing up patterns with a really simple outfit. For example, if you're sporting a basic black shirt and dark washed jeans, then I would add a pop of color by wearing these Oscar de la Renta ikat flats (see below) or that amazing clutch from Target (see below). Don't over-do this trend by piling on the Navajo-inspired necklace with the ikat shoes, and the printed bag, and the beaded top. That will be fashion overkill! Remember that simplicity is key and adding in that something extra will make you look effortlessly fashionable. Click on the images below to see where you can purchase these items!