The Stylish Eye » Must Haves

Hot for hot pink

Michelle A Heath — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 21:28:12 +0000

I was reading the November edition of InStyle and came across a great article called Color Crash Course – Hot Pink. I was hooked. Funny, when I read the article, I realized that I have several hot pink pieces in my wardrobe. Some cute tops, tees, a sweater, a dress or two with a mix of grey or black and hot pink. Not to mention some super-hot stilettos I bought in the Spring.

H&M Ladies Homepage

The misnomer about hot pink is that it doesn’t work for everyone. I hear that all the time and it makes me bananas! Hot pink can work on everyone – even you redheads out there. It’s all about the shade and the amount of pink versus blue or purple. Blondes and darker-skinned lovelies can really wear just about any shade of hot pink. Brunettes, red-heads and fair-skinned ladies should look for a deeper and darker undertone to balance hair and skin. You might need to try on several shades before you get it right. I love hot pink because it makes a statement while being ultra feminine and as the article says…”done right, it’s cool, not cute.”

Otherwise known as fuschia, this gorgeous color is a great way to really add a hot pop of color to your closet. My clients are always looking for ways to add color to their wardrobes and I love helping them experiment with bold colors like hot pink.

As for how to wear it, today – for inspiration – I paired a gorgeous silk ruffled blouse in hot pink with a slim black skirt and black patent-leather belt. Wolford tights (of course) and my Tory Burch leopard print wedges (my fave purchase from last season). The color makes me feel alive and is perfect for a Monday when staying in bed when the alarm rang at 5:30am was a much better option:) And I just happened to check out the H&M site today and there it was on the homepage…great timing and H&M is always on the trend.

So, my fashionistas…have you experimented with the power of hot pink? Do tell.

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The stylish girl’s guide to buying snow boots

Michelle A Heath — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 00:08:38 +0000

It’s that time. I treasure each last day with my flip flops because I know it’s coming. Sure, it’s 80 today, but in a month or so, it will be 60′s on a nice day. Soon…the dead of winter – snow, sleet, ice. I swear to move to Miami every January. Spring is not much better until at least May. Up until then, the rain comes down heavy and cold – just at the time I am dreaming of sandals and pink pedicures and day-trips to the beach. Ah, life in New England.

Last year, the winter was horrible. Not only did we get some crazy record amount of snowfall, but we had crazy rain. Freezing cold rain and giant puddles. No mere snowboot can hold up to 3 inches of slush. So, I had a practical moment – I know, it doesn’t happen that often. I had on my adorable Juicy Couture “snow boots”. These boots are more apre-ski, look super cute, than handle the elements boots, if you know what I mean. I stepped off a curb into a puddle (more like a small lake) and my adorable boots were sopping wet and my feet were drenched. I think I let out a scream, but no one was listening.

Sorel "Joan of Artic" $140

That night I decided I’d had enough. Hot, sexy boots have their place and it’s not maneuvering the sleet, snow and ice of the streets of Boston. Where could a girl turn? To her practical friends, of course! I posted on Facebook and asked for some recommendations. Several friends loved their Sorel boots and off I went to Zappos. I will tell you that it was with great disdain that I pulled up each page and tried to embrace the duck-boot like style and the clunky rubber sole. But I pushed on to the positives like the cute red sole, the adorable lace up feature and the fur-lining that peeked out over the top (a deal maker:). I decided that this fashionista needs a real snow boot – one that can make it through a bad winter and keep my feet warm and dry, all while trying hard to look stylish. I clicked add to cart and in 24 hours they were at my door. LOVE Zappos VIP shipping.

The boots are not as slim and trim as my usual boots and take a bit of getting used to – they are a bit heavy and I sometimes feel like nanook of the north, but they do the job. I find myself sloshing thru puddles of slush like my kids and enjoying toasty toes after my walk to and from work every day. I highly recommend Sorel and their combination of practical and stylish.

Sorel "Tofino" $140

I also love these Sorel Tofino boots – chili pepper red – too cute! Get ‘em while they’re in stock as they fly off the shelf. Oh, and they run big so if you’re in between sizes, go a size down.

Here’s to winter in New England and serving up the snow and cold in style!

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Must-have boots for Fall

Michelle A Heath — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 13:43:44 +0000

I’ve had several clients and a bunch of friend of Facebook ask for a recommendation of a great every-day boot – one that can do double duty day to night. Here are my top picks. I decided to feature tall boots as they can be worn over and under your jeans and are super-versatile.

1. Wedge

Wedge-heeled boots were all the rage last Fall and are still hip again and everywhere as we go into this Fall. The wedge is a comfortable way to wear a heel and transforms day to night. I’m a fan of the suede but it is limited in the New England winters so you might want to go for leather to get a fuller season out of the boot.

2. Riding

Riding boots also hit the scene last Fall and it’s great to see so many more choices this Fall. I love the two-tone brown and black styles – more of a true riding boot, but also love that designers are integrating riding-style features into a simple flat boot. You want this boots to ride tall – hitting you just below your kneecap. If they are too short, they will cut your leg off and make you look shorter. Its an optical illusion – keep that in mind.

3. Cowboy

I love a good cowboy boot! Now, there are a few options here. You can go all out cowboy (or cowgirl) with a Justin, Durango or other true cowboy boot. I love the look and they are super comfy if you get the right fit. The only challenge with this boot is that it looks great with certain outfits but is not as versatile for day-to-night as the wedge or riding boot. So, I came cross these Frye boots, which give the look and feel of a cowboy boot, but have the more ‘tailored’ appeal of a riding boot and can be worn with jeans, dresses or just about anything. The price tag is a bit steep but I wouldn’t showcase them if they were a trendy shoe that will last one season. Frye boots tend to be more expensive but will be a boot that can be re-soled or re-heeled and last you 20 years. No joke. There are plenty of knock-offs too so keep those Stylish Eyes focused when you shop and see if you can get a steal!

4. Stacked heel

The stacked heel is a big trend for Fall. I’m loving it because it gives you height but is much easier to walk in than a stiletto or skinnier heel. It is a more substantial boot and can be easily worn day to night.

5. Over the knee

The over the knee trend is still hot this Fall! I have two rules: 1) Over the knee is different than over the thigh. If you’re short, be careful as you don’t want to look like you’re hitting the pole after work:) 2) The boot has to fit snug. Too much leather around the top of the knee and you’ll look like you’re wearing waders. I have a few over the knee boots – one a dressy stiletto. Suede pull on and very tight so it almost blends into my jeans. The other is a day boot with a stacked heel and it hits about 1″ above my knee. Fit is key here – they are super cute but the line between hip and hooker is a fine one!

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Purr like a kitten, look like a hotty

Michelle A Heath — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 14:24:46 +0000

I talked about leopard print as one of my 2010 Fall Fab Five. This purrfect print also made it into my 2009 Fall Fab Five, so I ask you..

What have you done to incorporate some leopard into your wardrobe this season?

via Globe Magazine

I saw the Purrfection article in Sunday’s Globe Magazine and thought to myself: “Why is this new news?” I’ve been talking about animal prints – most specifically leopard – for a good 2 years now. The amazing thing about leopard is that it seems to weather the fashion-trend storm. Never really going out of style. Sure, the lines or the fabric or the details may change slightly but not enough to make last winter’s leopard beauty obsolete this winter. The Globe article made a great point about the benefit of leopard for all skin tones – that is something hard to find with a print. Leopard flatters just about every skin tone and I’ve seen all shades from the bold “looks-just-like-a-leopard” print, to more subtle or muted tones, which give you lots of choices to find one that looks great on you.

I’ve heard some of you say that leopard is “too much”. To that I say…try it before your judge. I have a leopard scarf and every time I wear it I feel stylish and like a wildcat (okay, maybe that is a bit of an exaggeration:). Leopard can go bold – like a coat or some hot stiletto boots, or be more of an accessory – like a great clutch or a drapey scarf.

In my closet, I have the following leopard goodies:

1. J. Crew cardigan – about 10 years old. Still wear it and it’s gorgeous.

2. Tory Burch flats – my first pair of TB flats. They are a staple in my wardrobe and, three years later, still look like a million bucks with everything.

3. Ella Moss halter top – Hot leopard print bandeau top with halter strap. Cute with jeans, pencil skirt, vinyl pants…

4. Pashmina – $25 purchase in Soho. Dresses up any fall/winter/spring coat.

5. Cuff – Needs a new clasp but the leopard print cuff I bought last year is still rockin this year.

I don’t know why, but there is something exhilarating about leopard. It’s luxurious and unique and can make anything ordinary look saucy and purrfect. So, I ask you, my style maven, how will you incorporate leopard into your wardrobe this season?

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WTF are jeggings and why do I care?

Michelle A Heath — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 18:28:00 +0000

A dear friend recently Tweeted…

WTF are jeggings? #clueless

Dear Clueless, have no fear, your answer is here.

Take one part jeans. Add one part leggings. A dash of spandex. Maybe even some polyester or lycra. And, voila, you have yourself a jegging.

Jeggings really hit the style scene last Fall as models started parading them around paired with sky-high stilettos or knee-high riding boots. Though model I am not, I bought one pair last Fall at my fave local jean store in the North End, Injeanius, and was hooked.

What’s so great about jeggings?

1. They are the most comfortable pair of jeans you will ever own that actually look GOOD and are comfortable – something not typically attained in the fashion department.

2. They are NOT, I repeat not, leggings. Please dear fashionista, promise me you will never ever wear leggings as pants outside of your house. Promise? Phew, we got that over with. Jeggings have all the stylings of jeans – stitching, grommets, hems – but all the stretch and comfort of a legging.

3. They fit like a glove. Jeggings create a slimming effect, which is contrary to popular belief. I’ve heard people say they fear looking like a stuffed sausage. I say, try them and see for yourself. Just like a regular jean, you might need to try a few different brands to find the perfect fit.

4. They are generally cheaper than a pair of True Religions. Most jeggings I’ve seen run under $100. Rue La La just had James Jeans jeggings for under $70 – a steal!

5. They honestly go with everything. A tank and flats. A hot night-on-the-town top and stilettos. A jacket and boots. The slim style is especially great with boots – no pant overhang. I hate it when that happens.

So, I urge to to test-drive the jeggings style jeans for Fall and see what happens. Be careful you might become addicted like me.

PS: Have you tried jeggings? Would love to hear if you are in love, like, hate…tell me all about it.

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Pick of the week: The stylish city sandal

Michelle A Heath — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 13:08:44 +0000

This week’s pick of the week brought to you by my new favorite shoe site, EndlessShoes.com. I love this online shoe store because 1) free overnight shipping on new styles (i.e. get it wicked fast), 2) they have awesome styles and selection (i.e. look wicked good) and 3) their brands are a step-above Zappos (i.e. no offense zappos but a girl needs variety).

The city girl’s dilemma is always looking hip and stylish while walking the cobblestone-studded streets riddled with subway heat vents, gutters and sinkholes. Wearing your gorgeous stilettos in this urban footwear minefield can often result in the oh so famous twisted ankle or better yet, the broken-off heel of a well-made shoe. What’s a girl to do? Well, crocs (gasp) are certainly not an option and sneakers are so 1992 and flip flops, which I love, can get old after a while. So, I’ve been on a hunt for a stylish pair of flat sandals to walk to and from work and where ever else I need to walk in the city. They are the “walk to work and then change in to your fancy shoes” shoes.

Alas, I have found them.

The brand is Ziginy and these sandals have the delicious balance of, dare I say, comfort and style. Every style has it’s own bling. Studs, chains, rhinestones, beads. It’s all in there. You decide how much. Now, you need to know that I do not buy shoes for comfort. If a pair happen to be comfortable, it’s like getting an extra scoop of icecream for free or finding a $20 bill in your pocket. It’s lucky. (I know, there’s probably a support group for that too.)

Well, regardless of whether you’re looking for a stylish sandal to parade around town or a comfy sandal to chase after the kids, the Ziginy brand delivers on both. FTW!

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Pick of the week – Ava Rose clutch

Michelle A Heath — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 21:07:26 +0000

Okay, I admit it. I have a thing for these sample sites. They lure me with their great deals and saucy heels and, a while back, I fell prey to too much sample sale shopping. They need a support group for that. But alas, I am now a much pickier shopper. I look for great brands AND great bargains. I often wait a bit to make sure I really love it. And, dear fashionista, be sure to read the fine print about returns (often no returns on accessories and merch credit for clothing.)

In any case, fast forward to today. I was on Ideeli and spotted this crazy adorable black clutch by Ava Rose Handbags. I said to this supple leather beauty, you must be mine. You might be wondering why I bought it. Well, something you may not know about me is that everything I buy has “criteria”. Yeah, I mean a list of reasons why I should buy it. Why? It’s the only way to make sure it will make an impact on my wardrobe enough for me to buy it. Here’s how my stylish brain works. So, I see this bag. I look it over – alot. Zooming in and out, reading and estimating dimensions, googling the manufacturer. Then I said to myself, here’s why I think this bag is a good purchase:

1. It’s unique. You won’t see many gal pals strutting around town with this beauty.

2. It’s a great size. I can fit my iPhone, pocket mirror, lipgloss, keys, gum, camera and probably even a light sweater in this clutch.

Ava Rose "Bianca" Clutch $62 @ Ideeli

3. The colors are neutral but not. It’s black but the metallic and red piping is sure to go with just about everything in my closet. So it’s a neutral bag but has really interesting accents that kick it up a notch.

4. It’s a bargain. Retail price: $198. Ideeli price: $62. I will take a 60% discount on a gorgeous leather bag that I will use all the time, any time.

5. It’s rocker chick. It is called the “Bianca” and maybe that’s why it reminds me of an underground British club and a rocker chick in leather pants and teased out hair. I like to let my inner rocker chick out every once and a while and this is a great, well-priced way to do it.

In addition to this beauty, there are 2 other styles, which I also loved. These are going to go fast, so go to Ideeli now using my fancy link (so I get some referral juice) and get yourself a stylish clutch. Do you have criteria when you shop? I’d love to hear about how you make your purchases. Do share!

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Stella & Dot Does Summer In Style

Michelle A Heath — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 16:33:20 +0000

Want to spice up your summer wardrobe? Looking for something to do tonight? How about some Proseco, apps, style and jewels – oh, and a bunch of stylish ladies? I am proud to host the North End’s first Stella & Dot style party. Haven’t heard about this fabulous line of jewelry? Well, take a look. My good friends, Jesse Pezzullo and Jennifer Tobasky, are the Stella & Dot stylists coming to share the goods at tonight’s style party. The line boasts everything from fun multi-strand beaded necklaces to beautiful enamel cuff bracelets.

If you know me, you know I luv accessories. I have more accessories than I know what to do with. Some call it an addiction, I call it a cost-efficient way to transform an outfit or a wardrobe. The challenge with some pieces or lines of jewelry is that they can often make a statement but are a “one-outfit” type of accessory. I have some of those and rarely wear them. What I love about the S&D line is that each piece makes a statement but is versatile at the same time. For example, think of the endless ways to wear this Bocca Necklace.

Bocca Bee Necklace

Maybe a white tee-shirt with jeans. Or a strapless turquoise or yellow top with a skirt or white jeans. Or a silk or crisp cotton blouse with a pencil skirt. Or go sexy with a black tube top and skinny jeans and a great stiletto or wedge sandal – yowzah, mamasita. Another big trend right now is the cuff bracelet. You see them everywhere and all the celebs are wearing them. The biggah the bettah. Embellished, enamel, multicolored, stacked, anything goes. I love this S&D cuff. Think of it paired for every day with shorts and a tank, a sundress or capri jeans and a tee. Or for night with a fun top and jeans or even a party dress. Versatility and style – a girl’s best friends.

Kelly Cuff Bracelet

So, here’s to a fun, stylish and versatile dose of summer style. The party starts at 7:30 at my house. I’d love to have you stop by. You can reach me directly at michelle(at)thestylisheye.com and I can give you the details. Oh, and if you can’t come but see something you love, I can hook you up with that too. Here’s to a fun night with Stella & Dot!

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Cargo pants I can dig

Michelle A Heath — Mon, 10 May 2010 17:54:00 +0000

I hate cargo pants. Yeah, yeah, I know. They are one of the top-selling pant styles for both men and women. But I just don’t get this trend. Why would I want to wear pants with huge pockets on the sides of my hips and thighs and on my butt? Do most women want to look 10lbs heavier? Not the ones I know. And, really, what do you do with all those pockets? If you put crap in the pockets, then you’re sure to not only look 10lbs heavier, but also look 10lbs bulgier (is that even a word?). Heavy and bulgy are not words this fashion maven can stomach. As for the cargo, I’ve seen them on all types of bodies and I still don’t like ‘em.

Until now.

I found these J Brand Cargo pants a few months back in one of my style mags. I love the brand – J Brand is known for great denim and styling – and I love that they look like cargos but are more like a skinny jean with cargo-like styling. No giant, bulgy pockets to clutter up your oh so lovely frame. Just a few styled, relatively useless pockets that are more like cargos for walking down Newbury Street than hiking Mount Washington. I also adore the cropped look and zipper styling on the ankles – I am still an 80′s girl at heart, you know.

J Brand Cargo Pants $231

They’ve been out of stock for months and Revolve just got a fresh new shipment in. Order up! They are going fast so get them while they last. Finally, cargo pants I can dig.

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Rue La La features L.A.M.B – ooh la la!

Michelle A Heath — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 15:46:51 +0000

If you haven’t become a Rue La La addict yet, it’s bound to happen soon. Rue La La is the online shopping site for people who love famous brands, star-style and the magic of discovering a great deal. For those of you who know me, you know that I am the girl that manages to find the $750 bag for $99 at TJ Maxx. (Ah, the perils of my stylish eye.) Rue La La is the ultimate destination because of their fabulous prices, great brands and their ability to get you to act..fast. You see, a “boutique” will open for say 48 hours. The countdown begins. Love that ToyWatch? Better scoop it up or it will be gone in seconds. Want those Prada boots? Fuggedabout it. Gone in minutes.

As if that all isn’t enough, Rue La La gives members a $10 credit for inviting other members to join. Great way to incentivize people to do their marketing. Want to join? Here’s my referral link. Pay it forward, baby.

L.A.M.B. "Zada" Nude & Forrest Leather Sandal

Now, on to the ooh la la. For the next 2 hours, you’ll find one of my favorite fabulous and stylish brand on Rue La La. L.A.M.B. Who can resist the most stylish, Gwen Stefani, and her L.A.M.B line of shoes? These coveted, funky, sexy kicks get better and better each season but typically run over $350 (thus my coveting them). Until noonET today, on Rue La La, they are over 50% off. Yes, my dear fashionista, you can now make Gwen proud by strutting your stuff in your deal of the century.

My only word of caution with Rue La La? Don’t fall prey to “I’ll come back later”. I have done this before and would peruse Rue La La, look around, put a few things in my bag and…come back later only to find out that they were gone. If you love it, buy it. Don’t wait only to miss out on a terrific deal. They have a 30 day return for merchandise credit for pretty much all items. Go get yourself some ooh la la today!

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