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How to Mix Patterns and Prints

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Polka dots, floral, tribal, stripes, cheetah, zebra, snakeskin; the list of stylish prints seems to go on infinitely. On the contrary, sometime styling them into a proper outfits can become a daunting task, even more so if you want to try to mix patterns. It’s not impossible but be warned that this can either make or break an outfit.

What to Remember:

1. Colour is probably the most important thing to consider when mixing busy patterns because if you can find two prints with the same colour palette, or the same background colour, there’s a great chance that the look can unify itself.

Mix Colour Patterns

Fausto Puglisi Pre-Fall 2015

Mix Colour Patterns

Emanuel Ungaro Pre-Fall 2015

Mix Colour Patterns

Fausto Puglisi Pre-Fall 2015

 

2. Belts are your best friend if you’ve tried the first step and see the potential but are unsure of whether the look really works. Try buckling a belt–of common colour between the two prints–on top of both layers, ensuring that the patterns show through, to really pull them together.

Mix Belt Patterns

Alexander McQueen Pre-Fall 2015

Mix Belt Patterns

Marni Pre-Fall 2015

Mix Belt Patterns

Matthew Williamson Pre-Fall 2015

What to Try:

1. Monochromatic- Try pulling together an outfit of two-toned patterns with two different pieces and you’ll be surprised at how chic it can turn out. You can also experiment with matching or complimenting textures like sheer, wool, etc. This trend should be taken advantage of more!

Mix Monochrome Patterns

Alberta Ferretti Pre-Fall 2015

Mix Monochrome Patterns

Emanuel Ungaro Pre-Fall 2015

 

 

2. Dots and Stripes- This may be a combination that really throws people off but when put together well, it can really finish off a great look. Again, just make sure that the two colour palettes of each print are similar. Also ensure that the palette is distributed well meaning, if you find that the look doesn’t work, try focusing the darks on the bottom half and the lights on the top half or vice versa.

Mix Dots Stripes Patterns

Fausto Puglisi Pre-Fall 2015

Mix Dots Stripes Patterns

Marni Pre-Fall 2015

3. Stripes on Stripes- This may be another risky one but what’s fashion without risk-taking? Try mixing the sizes and orientation of your prints, in this case, stripes. A large-striped top could look amazing with a tightly-striped bottom if a matching belt can pull the two together and vice versa.

Mix Stripes Patterns

Marni Pre-Fall 2015

Mix Stripes Patterns

Marco de Vincenzo Pre-Fall 2015

Mixing prints is definitely something that can be quite scary at first but once you get the hang of it, you’ll find yourself feeling much more comfortable in the clothes you wear. It’s all about accentuating a focal point, colour, or aspect in the pattern. Just make sure that your colours agree and remember the power of the belt!

What are some of your favourite prints to mix? Tweet them to us @LuevoFashion.

This article was written by our coop student extraordinaire, Samantha Chung Sang.

City Style Profile: Toronto

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I couldn’t help but notice the unique styles of individual Torontonians, in the downtown area especially. Toronto is known for its fluctuating weather so of course it becomes a challenge to look good and stay warm at the same time. Often, there are many people wearing the same basic apparel simply because they’ve given up on Toronto style but here, I hope to highlight some of the ones doing it right.

Of course, we all have to dress according to the weather but today I bring you three Toronto-based fashion bloggers with great style tips for remaining fashionable in this great but unpredictable city I call home.

Suburban Faux-Pas

We love Krystin Lee’s way of surviving the Toronto weather, “In the winter months, you’ll find a fashion emergency kit in my car which contains Hunter boots for the snow, an embellished toque, gloves and tinted chopstick for the cold!” She recommends a Mackage winter jacket to stay chic and cozy this winter and admires the unique culture of the city, in all aspects.

“With cooler temps dominating most of our year, you’re forced to layer in ways you never thought possible to stay warm but also make your own personal statement.”

Fashion Blogger Toronto Style

@Krystin_Lee

Sasha’s Satisfashion 

Sasha Xiao is always looking for new ways to stay warm and fashionable so she recommends a nice pair of over-the-knee boots since they can be incorporated into many different outfits. She understands Torontonians’ reliance on comfy and conservative clothing but she favors layering and has fun with it because it frees you to take something on or off accordingly.

“The fashion industry [in Toronto] is not crowded just yet, so we still have a chance to build something amazing here.”

Fashion Blogger Toronto Style

@Sa_Satisfashion

Textstyles 

Stefania Yarhi says we’ve made some progress in terms of fashion sense. “I mean the downtown kids really bring it and there are so many talented people with amazing creative eyes and style.” She has many favourite designs to shop like Ewanika and Pink Tartan but wants to remind us that Toronto is home to many amazing vintage stores like Life of Manek and The Cat’s Meow , as well.

“Embrace the changes! Canadians are so adept at layering, in a day it’s not uncommon to have several different types of weather and you just learn to roll with it.”

Fashion Blogger Toronto Style

@Textstyles

Do you have any tips for wearing fashionable outfits in Toronto? Let us know at @LuevoFashion!

This article was written by our co-op student extraordinaire, Samantha Chung Sang.

Winter Wonderland: Ways to Wear White this Winter

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Winter white style guide

An unofficial ‘rule’ of fashion is not to wear white after Labor Day. However, this ‘rule’ has been broken constantly with the continued appearance of white on the runway throughout the fashion season. It really comes to whether you are a fan of wearing white or not. The winter season is fast approaching and with it comes the quest to find the perfect way to style winter whites. In order to give you a better idea on how to wear fashionable winter whites I spoke with a few fellow fashion bloggers and professionals to get their take on just how to wear this color and what you might want to avoid.

Kristie Glenn, Blue Labels Boutique owner and blogger of What’s The Haps had this to say, “Pairing white with camel is a great way to wear white in the winter! Here is a trendy outfit idea: white trousers, a thin white sweater with a camel colored cape (which are a big trend right now) and leopard print shoes. It’s usually best to avoid wearing black shoes because they can look too heavy.”  For more from Kristie you can find her boutique Blue Labels Boutique here and her blog, What’s the Haps?.

Ways to wear white

Pantone white

Here’s another idea tip courtesy of Marian Rothschild, a Certified Personal Image Consultant, wardrobe stylist, blogger, award-winning and best-selling author.  You can be a trendsetter by wearing white when all others around you are wearing dull gray and boring black. “Winter white” is a very soft shade of ivory with a tiny tint of either peach, tan or yellow. Do not go with a grayish white; it will look dreadfully dull against any skin tone. You can find Marian at http://www.marianrothschild.com/.

Our third outfit idea and input comes courtesy of Aurora Berill who is the founder & administrator of Elegance of Luxury. It reaches an international audience mainly from Italy, the US, UK and Germany.  The following is what she had to say:

“Our personal style says a lot about ourselves. Don’t be afraid to experiment, add a bit of white and your look will transform into an elegant and sophisticated look. I’ve created 3 looks which can inspire you and help you get dressed for work, elegant dinners and other occasions & etc. If you prefer to add more black and less white into your winter look, then take a look at one of my outfits. I wear my black and white coat in combination with a red dress. Take care of the details!”

White winter by Aurora Berill

You can find Aurora over on http://www.eleganceofluxury.com/. You can also connect with her on several social media platforms found on the blog as well.

Here’s my final take.  The outfit choices are endless.  For example, you might prefer an all white look (i.e. detailed jacket, blouse, and pants paired together).  If traditional white isn’t what you are going for then perhaps a different shade like ecru or ivory might work for you.  You can also pair white with another neutral color or metallic like silver to give you more of a winter feel.  This look will work if you plan on attending parties this holiday season.   These are just some of the tips on the stylish ways to wear your winter white this upcoming season. Hopefully, I have given you an insight on how to style your winter white, and also how to make it a must have part of your winter wardrobe.

Winter White by Tamarah Brown

This article is written by Tamarah. Follow her on Twitter @TZB86

Are you looking for a new writing opportunity? Perhaps you have style tips that you would like to share with the world? We value new fashion trends and are always looking for talented guest bloggers. If you’re a blogger or writer, this is the place for you to get noticed. Can you see yourself as a part of our blogging team? Apply here!

City Style Profile: Washington, D.C.

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Walk down any street in Washington, D.C. and you’ll see a mixing bowl of styles. A buttoned up K Street lawyer, a jogger in workout gear, a fashionista in skyscraping heels and draped dress. With that said, just like the eclectic group of people walking the D.C. streets, bloggers in the city take on a range of styles.

When looking for style inspiration, I often land on D.C. blogger’s sites like A Lacey Perspective, Fashionably Broke and Be Loud Be You. Here’s a bit more about these bloggers and D.C’s city style:

A Lacey Perspective

A Lacey Perspective puts a great spin on the classic “preppy” look that seems to be uniform in the nation’s capital, pairing plaids and neutrals with bright heels and accessories.

Lacey has been around the D.C. fashion blogging for years now. She has a great look, in a matter of a few years she’s gone from long hair to a more edgy short hair cut as of recent and really stands out from the crowd. She brings out the best of and punches up classic styles and adds in some trendy pieces. She writes about items she’s coveting, and documenting her own personal style so others can gain inspiration.

A Lacey Perspective blog

Fashionably Broke

Fashionably Broke is a blog run by a set of sisters. Their style is a lot more edgy, trendier, like they just stepped out of a Nasty Gal or Topshop lookbook. They are the epitome of of-the-moment fashion and they share outfit posts and things they’re promoting. One of the sisters recently traveled to New York Fashion Week where they documented their experiences, which we’re super jealous of.

Fashionably Broke blog

Be Loud Be You

I love Be Loud Be You, I’m really into vintage fashion and this blogger has a great mix of thrifted items, items from ASOS and really unique clothes from indie designers and high-end designers. She also combines intellect with fashion and discusses her thoughts about things happening in her world and combines it with her sense of style.

BLBY

What’s really exciting about D.C. bloggers is that they’re stepping out from the mold and not the same as other bloggers in other cities. They’re unique in that they have day jobs while working on their personal brand and are stepping out of the stodgy mold D.C. has and pushing to make fashion more important in their city.

This article was written by Kurie. You can follow her on Twitter @KurieFitz

Shop Isabelle Donola Straight Off the NYFW Runway!

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When does the love of fashion begin? For Brazil-born designer Isabelle Donola, that love started when she learned to stitch at the age of three, making Barbie clothes by the time she was six. This early passion sparked a career in fashion for Donola who has been a participant on Project Runway and is showing at this year’s New York Fashion Week.

Photo-kerry-3 small

Growing up, Donola’s creative and imaginative eye allowed her to draw inspiration from many different art forms, ranging form cloths and textiles to metals and recycled materials. For her most recent collection, Donola was inspired by abstract shapes, well-fitted garments and oversized structural pieces.

Even after exploring various other hobbies and career opportunities, including journalism and ballet, Donola knew from a young age she was destined for the world of fashion design. With such a deep passion for every step in the design process, fashion design is more than just a job or interest, for Donola it is a necessity.

Donola was featured as a designer on popular T.V. show Project Runway on the “Under the Gunn” season and has shown at various New York and Los Angeles Fashion Week events. Donola currently has a successful fashion line “ Isabelle Donola NYC”.

F-W 13-14 campaign-1

Isabelle will be showing her new collection this Monday at New York Fashion Week. She describes the collection as:

“Nude. That was the first word that came to mind when I thought about this collection. The reflection of human nature and how people so often wear a mask. So I created a collection to evoke the naked beauty of the human being, raw in its essence and beautiful just as it is. I want people to embrace their inner beauty and extend that to their second skin. Allowing the garments to fearlessly speak to the world about who they are.”

We are very excited to have Isabelle Donola as our debut designer at New York Fashion Week. You can take a look and shop her collection live from the runway starting Monday September 8th at 4:00 p.m. EST here.

You Are Never Too Young To Love Fashion

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The fashion industry is not an easy place to succeed; it’s fast-paced, competitive and takes a lot of passion. It is my pleasure to introduce to you an amazing designer who is making her mark in this tough business and she goes by the name of Elda Doamekpo.

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Elda’s work has been seen in Omaha and Kansas City Fashion week. Her work is inspired by her West African roots. What Elda enjoys most about being a designer is, “the look that customers give me when I put a figure flattering garment on them, it’s priceless.”

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At only age 17, Elda is taking the fashion industry by storm; from jumpsuits to elegant gowns, Elda does it all! She stated that before she starts sketching a look, she does some research on what exactly she is trying to achieve. Like many designers, Elda goes through many designs until she comes up with her desired product. How many 17 year olds do you know that are doing this much homework, willingly? Kudos to Elda being an inspiration for so many at such an early age!

With two Fashion weeks already under her belt, Elda continues to follow her dreams as a designer no matter the hurdles she may face. She believes there is always room to grow and get better. Elda is just beginning to scratch the surface; I know we can continue to expect nothing but great things from her. Our fellow fashion lovers must keep a look out for Elda Doamekpo designs.

Written by fashion writer and beauty consultant Darcel Laurie. You can follow her on twitter @DarcelWorld!

Are you looking for a new writing opportunity? Perhaps you have style tips that you would like to share with the world? We value new fashion trends and are always looking for talented guest bloggers. If you’re a blogger or writer, this is the place for you to get noticed. Can you see yourself as a part of our blogging team? Apply here!

Retro Swimwear at the Beach

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If you are like me and still trying to squeeze in some fun in the sun before the summer ends, then hurry! With little time left and whether or not we’ve been working on getting flat abs, it’s okay because the trend this summer is retro swimwear, which means high waist bathing suit bottoms! Lucky us, right?


Summer has gone retro! The high waist style is back, which is great for those who are curvy and it’s great for those who desire more of an hour glass shape.

Tip: A high waist bottom that has a pattern or some color blocking is great when you want to give the illusion of the hour glass shape. So retro swimwear this summer is a win-win situation!


Enjoy your fun in the sun with confidence ladies! Show off your rockin’ body while being on trend in retro swimwear.

Written by fashion writer and beauty consultant Darcel Laurie. You can follow her on twitter @DarcelWorld!

Are you looking for a new writing opportunity? Perhaps you have style tips that you would like to share with the world? We value new fashion trends and are always looking for talented guest bloggers. If you’re a blogger or writer, this is the place for you to get noticed. Can you see yourself as a part of our blogging team? Apply here!

Sheer Garments Are In

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Less is not more this summer, sheer garments are one of the biggest trends this summer. It is an instant hit from the runway to red-carpet. After Rhianna’s jaw dropping dress reveal, showing up in a completely sheer dress at the CFDA awards earlier this summer, was only right on trend. Many celebrities followed in the trend, just not as revealing.

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The leg veil is like wearing a long and short dress at the same time. It has been a great, yet classy way to show a lot of leg. From lace to embellishment, sheer fabric is what will keep the heads turning this summer.

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So if you are feeling daring ladies and don’t mind showing off those lovely legs of yours, try wearing something sheer this summer!
Tip: When wearing a leg veil, it is good to pair it with a less revealing top.

Written by fashion writer and beauty consultant Darcel Laurie. You can follow her on twitter @DarcelWorld!

Are you looking for a new writing opportunity? Perhaps you have style tips that you would like to share with the world? We value new fashion trends and are always looking for talented guest bloggers. If you’re a blogger or writer, this is the place for you to get noticed. Can you see yourself as a part of our blogging team? Apply here!

Plain White T’s Aren’t Just a Band, But a Fashion Statement

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Wearing a plain white t-shirt is overwhelmingly apparent with possibilities for an amazing outfit. Yeah, that’s right – a plain white t-shirt has some serious potential. Of course, putting on your white t-shirt is a little scary at first. While there are many possibilities to have a rocking outfit, you can also do so much wrong with a white t-shirt – like spill coffee on it. Is it just me or do you all manage to spill something on your white shirts no matter what? Either way – sometimes you have to just go for it, and hope for the best. Here are some ways for you to style your plain white t-shirt’s!

plain white t (1)

 1. Statement Necklace

A statement necklace is a great way for outfits to be one and done. What that means is you simply just put on a necklace – and you’re good to go. Statement necklace’s are huge trends this season, and a must have for every fashionista’s wardrobe. You can get them in every color – literally, every color. How can you not? It’s also easy on the go, as mentioned before, and perfect for any stylish working lady or just any lady on the go. They aren’t too expensive and can be found in virtually every clothing store so it’s accessible for all, and super cute. A perfect way to spice up your plain white t-shirts!

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2. Bold Bottoms

Probably the newest, and most fun way to spice up your wardrobe – bold bottoms. Whether it’s colored denim or flowy fun bottoms; it’s amazing. They offer more attention to your lower half, if that’s what you’re into. Also, they allow you to be comfortable if you go for the flowy route. Of course, colored denim is always a wonderful option too, but really – jeans aren’t anyone’s favorite. Of course, fun leggings that are patterned are always a plus because you can wear leggings and look up to date in your fashion sense. Perfection. Bold bottoms are a great way to go if you’re trying to wear up your plain white t-shirts!  

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3. Headband Heaven

A super easy way – and convenient for bad hair days – to add some color to your t-shirts are fun headbands. They keep your hair out of your face, and also allow you to rock your comfy white t-shirts. Keep your hair out of my face and be in a comfy shirt? Umm, sign me up, please! It’s also a really affordable option to add some color to your outfits. Jeans, a white shirt, a fun headband, and some funky sandals – you look like a fashionista in a matter of minutes. Amazing solution for your plain white tee’s!

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The best thing about white shirts is everything goes with them. Even white on white outfits can be on point sometimes. Also – they can be found pretty cheap, so you don’t need to break the bank while creating some great outfits. You can spend more money on accessories and bottoms than shirts. What’s your favorite way to style a white t-shirt? Let us know in the comments below!

Article written by Amanda, an aspiring fashion journalist who blogs about fashion on her personal blog The Trendy Times. Be sure to follow her on Twitter @barba_amanda!

Are you looking for a new writing opportunity? Perhaps you have style tips that you would like to share with the world? We value new fashion trends and are always looking for talented guest bloggers. If you’re a blogger or writer, this is the place for you to get noticed. Can you see yourself as a part of our blogging team? Apply here!

Kicking It With Kimonos

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Kimonos are traditionally seen in Asian culture – mainly in Japan and China. However fashion has adapted the kimono into something totally wearable for everyday. Kimonos are amazing and a great staple piece for your wardrobe. I highly recommend this wonderful piece of garment. You can wear them all seasons too – Summer, Fall, Winter, Spring. They are always doable. Stores like Forever 21, Charlotte Russe, and Marshalls are carrying these fashion pieces nowadays – don’t miss out. Here are some great ways to rock a kimono this Summer.

1. At The Beach

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Not only is it an amazing piece to add to your wardrobe – you also can wear it as a cover up at the beach. Different and definitely more fashionable then your Dad’s pick t-shirt you held hostage to wear as a coverup at the beach. It’s lightweight, easy to pack, and you look cute. Add a flower headband and you literally could be at Coachella.

2. Day Time Attire

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A kimono can add some color and flair to your jean shorts and white tank look. It adds a different take on your style then say, a statement necklace might do. It’s a way to add color to a seemingly boring outfit, without being sweltering hot in the Summer. It’s perfect for those days you’re running late and still need to look presentable.

3. Night Time Getup

kimono

Black on black outfit with a pop of color in the kimono for a night time out with your girls is perfection. You will be comfortable – which is key – and also look fashionable, which is also key. It’s lightweight, as mentioned before. That’s a big plus because it allows you to rock it in a bar or a club without being too hot, having to take it off, and ultimately loosing it. We’ve all lost a sweater or two while out, right? Just me? Okay. Either way – the kimono is a perfect outfit choice for nights out.

The kimono is a new style and something I can see lasting for many years to come. It’s easy to wear, and makes for a different look than you may normally go for. What do you think? Would you rock a kimono? If so, how? Let us at Luevo know in the comments below!

Article written by Amanda, an aspiring fashion journalist who blogs about fashion on her personal blog The Trendy Times. Be sure to follow her on Twitter @barba_amanda!

Are you looking for a new writing opportunity? Perhaps you have style tips that you would like to share with the world? We value new fashion trends and are always looking for talented guest bloggers. If you’re a blogger or writer, this is the place for you to get noticed. Can you see yourself as a part of our blogging team? Apply here!