There’s Still Time: My 5 Last Minute Gift Picks

Just A Thought If Your List is Long
& Your Time Is Short

Team, it’s Thursday. And if you’re like me, all of your best laid plans for gifting the most elegant, thoughtfully-curated items to the people in your life have slipped out of your fingertips and into the steaming hot cup of coffee that’s teetering on the edge of your standing desk. This is very autobiographical right now. Don’t get me wrong, I love Christmas, and I really love shopping (you know this), but every year, it seems like my stack of “To Dos” at work sneakily encroaches on those 2 hour windows I blocked off to slip away and pick up goodies for my mom/husband/brother-in-law.

We’re five days from Christmas and at this point, maybe not even Amazon Prime can save you. Thankfully, there’s still time to leave your home and bop into some of our nation’s finest brick and mortars (as in my friends in Memphis can shop here as easy as my crew in NYC), so I thought I’d humbly share 5 things you can buy that don’t come from a Walgreens:

Cool Shoes She’d Never Buy Herself

Mules are still all the rage, and BLESS UP because baby kitten heels are too. Mom can wear these, but so can you, and so can your cousin who truly never learned how to wear heels but is here for the fashion and always cornering you for tips.

LEVEL UP – Bonus points for wrapping the lid and base of the shoe box so your giftee experiences an ultra-chic, lift-of-the lid moment.

Shop at: Target

2. Headbands and Scrunchies

90’s hair paraphernalia is having a moment, say hi to fat headbands and scrunchies – GLORIOUS SCRUNCHIES! Buy them for the person in your life who watches endless Beauty Tutorials on YouTube or your mom who was a scrunchie OG and wants to revel in her glory days.

LEVEL UP – Get these for your sister and wrap them around a bottle of Veuve Cliquot because Bubbles and Scrunchies forever.

Shop at: J.Crew, Urban Outfitters, Madewell

3. The Gift of Sound and Lack Thereof

Just bite the bullet and buy him those Beats. I promise, the look on his face when he unwraps them will make you forget the price. They’re also perfect for your dad who JUST wants to mow the lawn in peace or do whatever it is that he does on his iPad while your mom watches Ina Garten. JK – INA is for everyone

LEVEL UP – Pre-charge them so they are ready to rock as soon as he pulls them out of the box.

Shop at: Target, Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart

4. An Invitation To the Teddy Bear Club

Teddy Coats are continuing their momentum, but I’ve noticed that guys have been invited to join the club as well. Teddy pullovers are soft, cozy, and so trendy that you won’t care he’s wearing it on your date in two weeks. Cool guys can pair it with Nike 97’s and normal guys can slip it over their chinos and Vineyard Vines t-shirt.

Shop At: Dick’s Sporting Goods, J.Crew

LEVEL UP – Get him the Nike 97’s too 😉

5. A Moment In The Future

The easiest way to buy something they’d never buy for themselves.

Honestly, I will never ever turn down a sweet little experience. Book me all the massages, blowouts, and mani-pedi appointments. And likely neither will your bestie with an infant, your work-wife or work-mom. I realize this gift is not quite universal because there are people out there, ahem, my mom, who do NOT like to be touched, so know thyself before you book. The great thing about this gift is the chance to invest into local business as well. You can call your local spot today and pop by in the next day or so to pick up a gift card.

LEVEL UP – Commit to the experience, pick up a coordinating sweatsuit for your person to wear on their outing.

Shop At: Local Salons, Wellness Centers, and Spas

The final thing I’d recommend is (speaking DIRECTLY to myself here) to give the present of being present wherever you are these next few days. Try super hard to not answer “Busy” when asked how you are and for the love, put the phone down.

If you’re feeling like Christmas snuck up on your, take a deep breath! There’s still time to shop and there’s plenty of time to soak in the season, even if you feel a little late to the party.

xx – hh

PS – Stay tuned this week for another HHA post. Back 2 Back December posts because where did 2018 go?

Casual, Daytime Look, Fall/Winter, Real Talk, Shopping Guide

Proportionally Speaking

At this point in my life, I’ve seen hundreds, maybe thousands, pictures of myself, but for whatever reason it was this picture (above) that Ryan snapped of me this summer that made me notice something totally new about myself. Could it be? Is that right? Right there in front of me, I noticed that I have a short torso. All of the pieces started to fall into place: high-waisted pants and empire waists always look flattering on me and longer tops always felt way too long. Right then, at the age of 28, I realized I have a short torso.

A friend and colleague of mine who happens to have excellent style and taste always says the first two rules of fashion are “Find your waist, and then find a tailor.” When I’m dressing clients or friends, I always consider their “lengths” first—it’s the easiest way to pull together outfits that truly look amazing on you. There are tons of little tricks to make sure that you’re dressing in a way that suits you proportionally, like always wearing heels with midi-length dress or wearing shorts with an oversized jacket to keep your legs looking long. Skinny jeans end up making lots of people looking stumpy when worn with flats, but so much taller with heels—something about that extra few inches of ankle and top of your foot make all the difference. Since I realized I have a shorter torso, I’m looking for more cropped tees to wear with high-rise pants so I look taller.

So how do you figure out where you fall length-wise? For one, if you’re always having to get your jeans hemmed or if they’re never long enough, you can probably gauge if you have short or long legs. If jumpsuits always result in a bit of a camel toe, you’ve probably got a long torso and if crop tops hit where a regular shirt would, I’m calling a bit of a shorter torso. Also note—I’ve discovered that this concept is incredibly difficult to express by writing, but I’ve found some articles that express it better than I do here and here.

I’m a list maker and getting dressed is so visual, so I pulled together some images (yay! my Illustrator skills on display!!) and a checklist of some super steller looks from some of my style icons. I’m deeply obsessed with how Kortney Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, and Sienna Miller (I know, why not Kim? Probably because it’s hard for anyone I know to relate to her shape) dress. I know, I’m the worst, but I think they’re solid examples three different body builds: short torso + petite figure, long torso + long legs, and equal lengths torso + legs. Pulling images of them gave me such great inspo for my fall wardrobe too!

For my girls with long torsos – look to Kendall Jenner!

Ladies, you are the drop waist queens and can rock an oversize tee like no-one else. If you’re blessed like Kendall with super long legs, lean into wide-leg pants and flares, because it’ll just make you look more sky high! Make friends with a front tuck (Hi, Tan France) to define where your torso ends and legs begin. It’s also likely that you can wear a the ever-tricky mid-length bootie, just in time for fall.

For my girls with shorty torsos – go for Kortney Kardashian!

I’m so obsessed with Kortney’s style. She’s a tiny petite person, but still manages to look super fly and leggy no matter what. The biggest take away – cropped tops are your friend! And no, you don’t need a six pack to wear them. Even if they hit the top of your pants and show no tummy at all, it’ll still make your legs longer looking.

If you can’t decide if you have a particularly short or long torso, you may be “Equal Length! Good for you, this means life is a little easier for you, but not without need for tailoring or some nuances.

I think Sienna Miller, although petite still, is pretty proportionate. She’s just kinda fashion heaven too. Take a close look at wear pants hit her—even full length pants are expertly tailored to hit right at the ground to avoid “pooling” or having too much of a break. She almost always wear a high-waisted pant to make herself look long and lean.

There you have it. It’s a good exercise to survey your own lines! Consider this the next time you’re trying something on. And please, remember, just because something doesn’t fit you right does NOT mean that you’re body is wrong or bad, it might just mean that proportionally, it’s not the right fit, or you just need some tailoring or the right pair of shoes to make it right! Be kind to yourself. We all have different, beautiful bodies. I’m just here to help you get dressed in a way that makes you feel 100% you and 100% amazing.

xx – hh

Fall/Winter, NYFW, Recap

Throwing Spaghetti

I have a friend who is the right hand to an acclaimed New York-based designer. Every season, I anticipate his shows and no matter how weird or unwearable, I love them. So it totally threw me when this friend informed me that it’s not uncommon for him to have NOTHING ready six, five, even four weeks before the runway show date. Uninspired or just the creative process? I call the former. And as someone who comes up with ideas for a living, I get it. More than once, I’ve sat in brainstorms where our best ideas were a dog fashion show (wait, that’s actually an AMAZING idea and should 100% be pitched) or some half-baked concept that only evokes “Yea, that’ll work.” Creative fatigue is real and we can tell when we’re phoning it in.

I think there’s three responses to brain drain: you do what you know, you take a risk, or you throw spaghetti. And as fashion month wraps, I thought I’d pull out the designers who did just that.

I DID WHAT I KNOW

These tried and true fashion forces have a vision, and they’re sticking to it. The importance of this is really illustrated in the documentary “House Of Z” which chronicles the rise and fall, and rise again of Zac Posen. He talks about how he lost sight of his vision and the detrimenta it was to his business and creative journey.

Oscar De La Renta – Isn’t this an easy choice? It is, but I really appreciate that ODLR is a gown house now and forever. There’s two relatively new designers at the helm, and while the collection didn’t seem exactly groundbreaking or fresh, it was gorgeous and full of ODLR’s greatest hits – namely A-line gowns and punchy, strapless numbers. It’s clear Team Oscar stays inspired by the past, but I’ll take it.

Carolina Herrera – I wasn’t going to choose Carolina, but I read it was her final collection to design and decided she’s the perfect example of a designer who has stayed inspired by her own iconic self. There aren’t many “youths” channeling the CH look—her famously chic, polished, and immaculately tailored isn’t big with the street style set—but the colors, shapes, and taffeta coming down her runway were truly stunning—and classic Carolina. She’ll be surpassed by none other than (gasp!) the ex-lead designer of Oscar De La Renta, so fear not, the dresses will still be on point.

I TOOK A RISK

“You know what, I just got out there and tried.” These are the designers that constantly zag when everyone else is zig-ing.
Gucci – If you know me, you know my love for Gucci in recent years runs oh-so-deep and oh-so-wide. When I first watched this season’s show, I thought I’d position it as a spaghetti, but then I read about Alessandro’s inspiration for the collection and changed my mind. Is this just excellent BS? If it is, he sold me. Yes yes, people carried heads down the runway and that is freaking WEIRD, and I’m crying because the looks are SO. OVER. THE. TOP., but someone also carried a little green lizard and that redeemed everything for me.

Dolce & Gabbana – Get ready people, Dolce drones are now a thing and officially ruling the world. Relying on technology is risky enough, but it’s just so cheeky to nod to the fact that we don’t even need models anymore to show runway collections. And when the girls did hit the catwalk, they were Spanish divas layered in all kinds of crazy. I’m kindof confused, but also kindof obsessed.

I THREW SPAGHETTI

I had a history teacher who would give us participation points for throwing spaghetti, i.e., just talking. Sometimes you’d stick your neck out and cobble together an answer that would get a nod of approval, and other times, a laugh and, “You’re throwing spaghetti, but nice try.” These people did that, but with fashion…and it pretty much worked.

Saint Laurent – Hedi Slimane is long gone from Saint Laurent and it seems like some of the black magic that is YSL is gone. Anthony Vaccarello is doing his own dark thing now, and also his own floral thing, I guess. But I’m calling Spaghetti because the collection just seemed so…random: hats, architectural dress, so much leather that I’m worried about our cow population. The worst thing for me is the knitted belt with the rhinestone, ahem, Swarovski crystal, centerpiece. There was a lot, and although I’m not into it, apparently sales are up, so undoubtedly other people are.

Moncler – Honestly, Moncler gets the gold because they dropped a wintry, puffy bomb at Milan fashion week. Comprised of 8 mini-collections that will “drop” on a month-to-month schedule, this collection was LIT. Seriously, it’s heating up in here, and it’s not just because I’m shrouded in a floor-length Moncler parka. They threw the spaghetti, and it stuck.

27-8-moncler-palm-angels-fall-ready-to-wear-2018

11-8-moncler-palm-angels-fall-ready-to-wear-2018

Stay risky out there people.

xx – hh

Cold Weather, Color, Daytime Look, Fall/Winter, haley hoover, Real Talk

What Am I Even Wearing?

WELCOME FALL. You are here now. You have officially taking up the roost and shooed my darling summertime away. It’s fine, I’m just a little stressed is all.

With cooler temps upon us, the next wave of trends is rolling in, too. I’ve been in a conundrum for the past two weeks as I feel a nip in the air when I walk to the train. One question pounds around in my cranium all morning as the J train inches towards Manhattan: “What am I wearing this season?” I’ve been pestering my friend Kate for months about what the new, hot boot will be, but she always shot me down saying it was too early and too hot to talk about fall. She was right. But fall always got me buggin! I’ve never felt adequately wardrobed for autumn, it’s my worst season. I’ve never loved jeans and growing up, my corduroys always “swished, swished, swished” in such a way that I grew to hate most pants in general.

Determined to get it right, I start my research early. This year was tricky because things in the trend cycle are starting fresh—only the most daring and fabulous are in the know. We all knew to buy off the shoulder tops for summer this year, because only the coolest of the cool were wearing them last year. At this point, I’m keeping my eyes on the stars. Thankfully, all of those glittering fashion plates are gathered at fashion weeks across the globe, so I found it fitting to report on what to wear through the eyes of the most talented street stylists—and photographers—out there. Here’s what to shop to nail Fall 2016 and spoiler alert(!)—if you’re a 90s baby, you’re in for a treat.

TREND 1 – EAT SPAGHETTI

Photo Cred: VogueRunway.com / Phil Oh

I wasn’t kidding about 90s swag; it is back and it is alive. I vividly remember having a purple tee and lime green tank combo that I rocked in the 4th grade (circa 1994?) and envisioning a grown-up version of that ensemble on my now is still a little hard to swallow. I’ll dip my toe via the most 90s establishment out there: The Gap.

Quick take = Zara Tank + Gap Tee

TREND 2 – BLACK AND WHITE AND PRINTED ALL OVER

Photo Cred: VogueRunway.com / Phil Oh

Praise The Lord for a great printed blouse, a statement piece all on its own. Tuck it into jeans on your way to Sunday brunch or trousers when you’re running late for work on Wednesdays. Pick up stress-free wearable ones from Zara or JCrew Factory or find treasured, glossy (read: high maintenance) ones at Equipment and ALC.

TREND 3 – COLD CLAVICLES

Photo Cred: VogueRunway.com / Phil Oh

Get ready to keep freezing those shoulders off, babies, because the off the shoulder blouses and sweaters ain’t going anywhere! Trust, your arms will be warmed because crazy sleeves are all the rage too (see below). I’m looking at knits to stay cozy, but would be swayed for bright or ruffling versions when Saturday nights come a calling.

I’ll just leave these here for everyone to digest. Ready your wallets, ladies! It’s time to shop; I’ll be back later this week with a little more ~~food~~ fashion for thought.

Happy Monday, y’all.

xx – Haley

Casual, Daytime Look, Fall/Winter, Real Talk, Shopping Guide

Layer Up! Dresses Over Denim

It’s Saturday morning and I just came back from a quick three-mile run, it’s a balmy 65 degrees and feels like heaven. And side note – it’s November! November as in last November we had definitely turned the heat on and had most likely seen a snowflake at some point. I don’t know why the good Lord is choosing to bless the North with some very Southern-like weather but I am not going to argue. I’ve still not fully switched my closet over to my winter clothes, because, you know, pulling down my small bin sweaters is SOOO hard. To be fair, the sweaters are on the highest shelf of my closet. I mean, I have to get a stool or enlist Ryan for help. So of course you can understand why I haven’t done this yet.. #LazyGirl

One of my favorite outfit combos of late is the pairing a tunic dress with distressed jeans. The end result is an outfit that looks updated but still casual and cool. If you’re out of ideas for a weekend look, this I highly suggest. If you’re a newbie, definitely go for fitted or skinny distressed jeans and opt for a dress that does not have a super fitted waist. Think tunic or shirtdress styles. If you are a well-practiced layer-er, I dare you to go for a straighter leg jean. Do this with caution though. If your jeans are too wide and your dress too flowy, you may just look like a very bad version of an Olsen twin circa 2005. Just google Leandra Medine of Manrepeller or Miroslava Duma (Former VOGUE Russia editor) for help. Those girls layer like no one else.

And don’t forget to really ROCK this look out. I added my favorite stilettos, an amazing vintage felt hat and of course, a trusty bandana. Never thought I’d say “here comes the sun” in November..

Just to help out, I shopped a few outfits for both crowds – the new and not-so-novice. I also exclusively shopped the amazing Barney’s warehouse sale – prices are amazing until November 11th!

All images taken by the amazing Julia Hembree.

Happy Layering! – Hales

Fall/Winter, NYFW, Real Talk

Why You Should Care About Fashion Week

Photo Cred: imdb.com

Sound the bell and close the FW15 books, for as the sun set in Paris on Friday, fashion month finally came to a close. Air France air jets destined for LGA and LAX are loaded up with ~~lucky~~ exhausted fashion market editors who just underwent an immense intake of fabric and aesthetics – not to mention loads of pop culture (thanks Kimye).
And you must be thinking – what does this have to do with me? If you’re not fashion obsessed and choose to NOT spend your time trolling Pinterest for Street Syle pin-speration or style.com to try to figure of out what number look you loved most at the Chloe show, you must be wondering what all the fuss is about.

There’s this marvelous scene in the movie The Devil Wears Prada where Miranda Priestly, a powerful fashion Editor, tells her plebeian executive assistant, Andy Sachs, who could not care less about the editorial world that she’s stumbled into, exactly why fashion has to do with her. “You’re in fact wearing a sweater that was selected for you by the people in this room.”

She really wasn’t exaggerating.

Fashion Week gives us all a sneak peek of what we’ll be wearing this coming fall or, in some of our more midwestern or southern regions, in two falls. No matter if you pre-order runway looks via Moda Operandi or dash to Ann Taylor LOFT and H&M when you have a free 45 minutes, you better believe all looks will be replicated. I like to take NYFW to study and plan ahead for what my wardrobe will require in six months. I get it, this is not everyone’s life and may sound completely absurd. But put yourself in my shoes – living in a Fashion Hub and working in the industry requires a certain reflection of knowledge and current events, like any other profession would require. Kind of like in Devil Wear’s Prada when Andy doesn’t start to find favor in the workplace until she showed that she “cared” about what was happening around her. It doesn’t matter if you paid $500 or $15 for that cute little top, some version of it was worn by a model at some point during fashion month.

Photo Cred: Marieclaire.co.uk

Photo Cred: Vogue.com

An avid fashion follower would also note that Fashion Month tends to reflect the general mood of culture. More recently, the fashion world in general has been trying to reroute priorities and focus on real topics. Karl Lagerfeld sent a woman’s revolution down Chanel’s Spring 2015 runway and a week ago, Dolce & Gabbana celebrated mothers and the impact a tender relationship can have on all of us. A few years ago, things were all dark and broody and now it seems that a shot of optimism has been infused into this realm of “pretty things.” Beauty (and yes, slowly but surely, even size) is celebrated here. Who said the fashion industry was out of touch?

And at the end of the day, Fashion Month celebrates individualism and the spirit of outwardly expressing yourself. We didn’t see the same looks at Oscar De La Renta as we did at Alexander Wang, but why would anyone expect or want that? The fact that so many people are wanting to create something transcending or elegant or striking is staggering, but the fact that this desire manifests itself in SO MANY DIFFERENT WAYS is inspiring.

Photo Cred: Vogue.com

All this aside, don’t we care about those amazing street style shots the most anyway? Fashion Month is the time to ditch your go-to/un-inspired looks and find the ensemble that makes you feel your coolest and boldest. So don’t worry about policing Instagram or Refinery29 or WWD like your life depends on it – that’s why the girls at Style Me Perfect are here! We’ll break it down for you and tell you exactly what you need to know. Just please know that Fashion Week is an actual thing with impact, and yes, it does apply to you.

Ready to shop? Give me a shout if so!

Cheers,

Haley Hoover, SMP Stylist

Fall/Winter, NYFW, Recap

NYFW Runway Recap (with Superlatives, Duh)

A week or so ago I let everyone peek into my little trek through New York Fashion Week and what I wore to the sub-zero, nor-easterly concrete jungle that is Lincoln Center. This week, we’re trekking down the runway! Here’s my review of my favorite, the most talked about and most intriguing shows as of late during Fall Fashion month (or should I say months? because seriously this thing goes on forever). Warning: There is also a superlative element used here because, you know, I just have a thing for categorization.

Most Patriotic In a European Way: Anthony Vacarello
Let’s start off with a newcomer. A protege of Donatella Versace, Anthony Vacarello presented his collection a few days ago that was deeply inspired by none other than the good ol US of A, which is exactly why I chose him. Americans and our very young nation are teased so critically across the globe that it absolutely shocked me to hear that a European designer was actually inspired by the texture and fabric of our nation. Stars and fringe and studs and rock star power infused into every aspect of this collection. It’s cool and oh so texy-sexy that I wanted to stand up and salute. Give this man a tiny replica of Old Glory and call him Yankee Doodle.

Trends To Watch: Suede, Fringe, Leather Cutouts and tiny, tiny Skirts

Most Talked About: Marc Jacobs

Victorian grunge? No more Mr. Tough Guy – last season’s army fatigues gave way to full pleated skirts and sequin jackets. Marc’s show was all about lightness, laciness, and belted A-line waists. I don’t know how he does it: sexy without showing really anything. He’s all about the allure and the confidence – did you see how those girls walked the catwalk? I need to watch this every morning on my morning commute for confidence motivation. Full coverage to no coverage – I wanted it all and simultaneously wanted to announce,” THE REAL MARC JACOBS IS BACK” from the Empire State Building.

Trends T0 Watch: Long Pleated Maxis, Trouser Suits, Forehead Topknots

Most Anticipated: Oscar de la Renta

The fashion nation wept collectively at the passing of the great Oscar de la Renta. As a woman, I felt like one of the few men that truly understand what woman want and need to feel while wearing a gown or dress or appropriately modest midday tea outfit had left us. This season, Oscar’s predecessor, Peter Copping, presented his first collection for the great ODLR house. A new chapter begins. Copping is not yet filling ODLR’s shoes – Oscar was creme fraiche, this was a cupcake. The day wear felt cautious, BUT the gowns gave me a glimmer of hope and intrigue. Bold hues and big beadings floated down the runway. I’ve never wanting a pair of fuchsia, leather evening gloves but dangit, now I do! When it comes to Peter Copping, the day may be dim but the evening is just beginning. Excited to see how things change.

Trends To Watch: Jewel Tones, Marsala, Bustier Backs, Violets and Purples

Best Use of Color: Peter Pilotto

I’ve never allotted much attention to Peter Pilotto but more recently this line has been the recipient of major buzz. And from the looks of the FW15 collection we all know why. Style.com likened the collection to the stack of board games you played in your childhood rec room but I feel this description is a downgrade. This collection is whimsical, but it’s the most optimistic look at fall that I’ve seen for this season. Fall is typically a time to get broody and dark, but Peter Pilotto’s designs march right into the colder months with a rainbow colored ambiance. There was also some major coat-speration taking place here too.

Trends To Watch: Bright Outerwear, Symmetric Prints, Bold Color Accents on Classic Silhouettes

Most Social-Media’ed: Tommy Hilfiger

A full size football field. That’s all Instagram could talk about the day of the Tommy Hilfiger show. The buzz this man created was a marketing dream and he delivered with his collection. This was the Super Bowl and he did a trick play in the way that only Tommy H. can do. Americana wasn’t just a thing with the Italians, it was big right here at home too. Red, white, and blue were the colors of choice with the star cheerleader marching in lead. I loved the classic white dresses, the layered turtlenecks and pleated cheer skirts. Don’t even get me started on that poncho. Go, Tommy, GO!

Trends To Watch: Culottes, Wine Colored Hosiery, Throwback Silhouettes

Is everyone making their Fall/Winter 15′ wish lists yet? Mine is miles long and Paris Fashion week just started! #uhoh

I’m happy to help you shop for yours!

xo – Haley Hoover, SMP Stylist

Daytime Look, Fall/Winter, NYFW, Real Talk

This Time Last Year – A NYFW Story

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week is has come and gone once again and New York City is a-buzz and a-twitter (really) with the constant sightings of supermodels and super ensembles. It’s amazing feeling to sit in the crowd at a show at Lincoln Center, watch the lights fade and glow and see the tallest, slinkiest 19 year old pounce down the runway in a sheer jumpsuit or floor-length knit sweater dress or fitted off the shoulder cocktail dress. This is inspiration in real life, this is months of work and planning and coordinating and sourcing.

I wish we could all present a summation of the current state of our lives every six months – wouldn’t it look terrifying and amazing? Now that I’ve lived in New York for over a year, I like to measure things by “this time last year” scenarios. The swiftness of change in this city is amazing. This time last year, I was wandering Lincoln Center with my husband trying to figure out a way to get inside the wondrous “tents.” It was freezing – I wore my black pea coat and a green cotton scarf as a turban. I think it was snowing.

Flashforward 6 months and I’m back at the tents, Fashion Week passes in hand, marching proudly into Lincoln Center but feeling bewildered as soon as my feet pass the threshold.

Flashforward 6 months later and we’re here again, for the final fashion week in Lincoln Center. Instead of standby for every show, I have a handful of invites (standing tickets, but sometimes I get to sit if not enough people show up) and know the difference between the Salon and the Pavilion (the Pavilion is better, the Salon runway lights make the models look like ghosts).

I know it’s not the blogger way to be enamored with life or talk about how things are maybe a little different than what instagram portrays, but really, this gradual climb is so rewarding everytime a new milestone comes along. I can’t wait for these FW15 collections to hit stores in August and I can’t wait to see where we are this time next year.

That’s enough outdoor time for me. Stay warm, America.

– Haley

Wearing: Top – Kate Spade Saturday, Skirt – Kate Spade Saturday, Trench – Club Monaco, Tights – Nordstrom, Shoes – Vera Wang, Bag – Longchamp

All photography credits – Julia Hembree Photography

Casual, Cold Weather, Fall/Winter

Get Loose: Winter Edition

Last week, I mused about winterizing a very un-warmthed wardrobe into one that can handle nor’easters and blizzards with ease. This week, I’ll share what I’ve come up with. As I’ve struggled thought sub-zero dressing, I’ve turned frequently to whowhatwear’s 30 Day Winter Challenge! It’s had me doing all sorts of things like belting chunky things and layering skinny things, etc.

The best way I’ve found to change it up is to switch up my jeans. We ALL wear denim, every day! But some days, skinny jeans just won’t cut it. I truly recommend boyfriend jeans (Bonus Points for Distressed Ones). You can tuck a fitted turtleneck into loose jeans with a belt and accentuate your whittled waist or layer up loosy-goosy sweaters and tunics to look oh so downtown and OH-so-COOL! I’m still lending wide-leg kudos to my trusty pair of distressed American Eagle boyfriend jeans that I’ve had since SOPHOMORE YEAR OF HIGH SCHOOL. Sadly, I’m on the wrong side of 16 and am now realizing that these jeans have lasted me closed to a decade. A decade, ya’ll. How’s that for the best $20 bucks I’ve ever spent?

Grown up BF jeans can be found for a steal here and a splurge here. I’m here to report that there’s life beyond the skinny and so much worth in a solid cuff and chunky heel. Let loose and get loose with oversized pullovers and your high school jeans.

To recap: I recommend you opt for a wider leg jean (even for one day) and to check out WWWD.com’s 30 Day Winter Challenge to play with your wardrobe. If you’re serious about staying stylish or even just bored with your wardrobe, this article is for you!

If it looks like I’m cold in these pictures it’s because I am. Happy Friday love bugs!

– Haley

Wearing: Sweater – JCrew (Sold Out, Try This – big sale! Code: SALETIME), Tunic – Zoa New York (Similar), Jeans – American Eagle (the oldest, see links above!), Shoes – Nine West (old, try these), Hat – Gifted from Mama (try this), Necklaces – Anthropologie (Similar), Bag – Alexander Wang, Cuff – JCrew x BaubleBar (similar)

Color, Fall/Winter

Revamp 2015: Back to Black and Blues

Resolved – to step up my game.

Resolved – to be more adventurous.

Resolved – to try new things.

Sound familiar? There’s something about January 1 that elicits motivation. And then there’s something about January 13th that conjures fatigue. Most resolutions are well intended, but the clutter of life and disappearance of the holidays makes our resoluteness much less profound than intended.

So let’s talk fashion resolutions.

Want to be polished and put together, but not bland? If you want to be A-game chic with adventurous style, go back to black… with just a little bit of blue. Many women are scared to pair navy with black (almost akin to the fear of wearing two different shades of black). I tell my clients to take baby steps, add grey to your dark-neutral potpourri. Soon enough you’ll be captain of the navy and black team and without the end of January burnout.

The below pictures were taken by my dear, talented friend, Ashley Revell. If you live in NYC and need a smart photog, look this girl up!

A tiny, baby heel ramps up a look from cool and casual to cool and polished.

All photos by Ashley Revell Photography

This month, look for pieces in deep shades of navy to wear with your favorite black jeans or work trousers. Top this with a grey boyfriend cardi and pointy heel. See? Baby steps never looked so resolute!

With determination,

Haley, SMP Stylist

Wearing: Blouse – JCrew (Sold Out, Similar), Blazer – H&M (Old, Similar), Pants – Nordstrom (Sold Out, Similar), Vest – Intermix (Sold Out, Similar), Shoes – Kohls

Want some help looking for fashionably adventurous pieces to add to your closet? That’s where our team of talented stylists come in! Head to our home page now to learn more about what Style Me Perfect can do to make 2015 your most chic year yet!

HI, HALEYANNIE | STUDIO H

style, self, & motherhood

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