Is black and white any less unexpected?

 Periodically color blocking comes back in a big way and this fall is no exception. Almost everywhere you turn right now you are likely to be confronted with pinks and oranges or blues and greens together and especially so on shoes, platforms specifically. But being the one for contrast that I am, I am totally in love with the black and white version of this trend. It goes with everything while simultaneously making a statement by creating visual interest. It is even more fun when it is done on a classic piece like these TopShop VATICAN Off White Contrast Snaffle Trim Loafers. Because it is a basic loafer, they will go with just about anything, but because of the black trim they will always make a statement!

When applying this same theme to bags, what could be more perfect than this TopShop Contrast Trim Doctors Bag which speaks to this season's obsession with satchels. Satchels are such a timeless bag and are essentially always in style. Some colors or textures might speak to one season more than the next, but the satchel itself is not going anywhere. So adding a beauty like this one with its contrasting trim is a must. The shape and design are long running and the color choices allow for it add some punch to your look. And potentially adding a short colorful scarf to one of the handles would only make it that much better.

When I'm getting dressed in the morning, I prefer to have one piece that provides the most interest, while the rest play supporting roles. With those loafers or that bag, the outfit would likely still include a statement necklace but then the shoes would provide something just a little unexpected. And we all need something a little unexpected dont we? 

Everyday...every which way...

MICHAEL Micheal Kors Jet Set Medium Shopper

 What is a neutral? Is it by definition something that goes with everything? Is it a piece that complements just about everything in your wardrobe? It is a color or an accessory? Is it both? For me, it is all of the above. Some neutrals are just easy...black pants and pumps, brown belt, everyday necklace...others are more difficult...I was chit chatting with Monica and Adrienne and we have all noticed separately that we are in need a new carryall tote...a bag that we can carry with us wherever we go, work, shop, play, that will match just about everything without much need to switch it out from day to day...in these conversations I realized that with bags, as with most things, I dance to the beat of my own drummer. Adrienne prefers the classic styling of the Longchamp Le Pliage, in billberry if you please...while Monica gravitates towards the smooth leather and classic black of this kate spade new york litchfield joelle leather tote, both of which can be found at Nordstrom. Myself on the otherhand, I am drawn something with subtle color and classic details.

The everyday bag is one that fits "all the necessities of my life," as Monica calls it and is sturdy enough to take the abuse associated with a true carryall. I have an affinity for the classic shape and details of this MICHAEL Michael Kors Jet Set Medium Shopper in purple, it is everything I would ever need. The size lends to it being able to fit everything, including my beloved Nook Color and the shorter straps are perfect to carry on my forearm or my shoulder without having to use the shoulder strap. To have an everyday bag with some color, that can make the transition from day to night and spring to fall is perfect.



Cole Haan Heritage Quilt Archer Mini Satchel

When it's time to add bigger dash of color, for those moments when something muted just won't work, set your sites on this Cole Haan Heritage Quilt Archer Mini Satchel. The shape is classic, the quilted texture gives you some visual interest and the color is to die for. Mustard is shade that has been around forever and its tonal qualities are classic and bright without being garish. The darker undertones allow it to be fall staple, bringing some life in the dull dreariness of the colder months, but its yellow overtones let it shine on bright summer days. When planning that investment staple...make sure that the style is your own and the shape and color are something that will transition with you throughout the year. For me, it will likely always have some color. I wouldn't be me without some visual interest...what will work for you, every day, every which way?

Light my fire...

Aidan Mattox Sequin Sheath

My friends will tell you that I have been waiting for some red to catch my eye...and finally that has happened! I has been wondering how long it would take before this eye catching color would turn up in a summer that has relegated it to the shadows. This summer appears to be all about the happy brights of the color wheel and the more saturated hues are waiting for their grand entrance this fall I believe, to which Crocheting the Reef agrees.

Reds of all shades are going to get you noticed, but the question is how. After the age of 10 or so, the primary shade we often seen on playgrounds and in day cares is one of the past and we enter into those shades that emphasize our ever growing maturity. Even in flux, while we are desperately trying to carve our own niche in the world there is a shade that complements our age and more specifically the moment. Take this Aidan Mattox Sequin Sheath Dress. The color is more of a burgundy, which would normally imply that the wearer is older, but the style, and the sequins no less, let you know that this woman, while young, is secure and not afraid to be noticed. She isn't flashy, but she is definitely going to catch your eye.



Alexander McQueen Sculpted Wedge

Because there are so many shades of red, it is easy to get lost in narrowing down what direction suits you best. Can you pull off the deepest of burgundies or is that going to make you look sallow. Will a shade that blurs the line between hot pink and red make you stand out in a good way. Even though InStyle says that America's Most Wanted Nail Polish in Washington, DC is OPI's Big Apple Red, is it a good idea for you to go traipsing about such a stand out color? And sometimes, no matter the shade, the package that the color comes in, makes all the difference. Most women that enjoy clothes, have or want a pair of red shoes. And when it comes to shoes, because they are a little more removed from your eye line, most women can get away with most shades. Take these Alexander McQueen Peep Toe Sculpted Wedge Pumps. The shade is definitely knocking on the door of primary, but who would dare criticize? They are gorge. Definitely a shoe that will draw attention. Not everyone is going to be comfortable in a shoe this high or this edgy, but that's the point. This shoe isn't for everyone and most can appreciate it, even if they wouldn't walk a mile in them.

Shades of Grey...or gray?

Cara Accessories Pave Crystal Knot Ring

From heather to gunmetal, grey, or gray, is a color that most often falls into the neutral category, but definitely has a life of its own. It encompasses silvers and slates, from the lightest baby approved to the darkest almost black varieties and looks good doing it. Often the 3rd color in athletic color schemes, the one no one talks about...and the color of our favorite earrings. Greys often lend a background to a statement piece, but when done well, they can be a statement all their own. In the era of statement jewelry, real or costume, grey, especially gunmetal, is one that is versatile and works with most anything, even gold, when done properly. Take this Cara Accessories Pave Crystal Knot Ring, the aesthetics of it allows it to speak it's statement loud and clear, but the color of it allow it to work in tandem with any shade of the rainbow. And what a lovely rainbow it is...It participates in the conversation that your outfit starts and is a subtle exclamation point people will find themselves drawn to...and probably a little jealous of. A bit fun, a little bit frivolous, but definitely necessary.

Valentino 'Lace - Large Nuage' Hobo

But grey doesn't have to be limited to jewelry...any accessory works in grey, shoes and bags alike. I was torn with which of these examples to use today, so I decided to use both. This bag is just GORGE. My life is incomplete without it, not really, but you understand. Valentino got it perfect with this 'Lace - Large Nuage' Hobo. The size of it is perfect. Being one to operate in extremes, I like by bags either massive or minuscule, and this is perfection. I can get everything I need in there with room to spare, including a change of clothes, I'm sure. I'm the single girl with the 'mom bag.' Ask me for anything on any given day at any given time, I can rummage around until I find exactly what it is you are looking for, band aids, lotion, 4 different kinds of chap stick, Advil, and probably even enough snacks for everyone at the party. Its just what I do.

Bronx 'Heat of the Nite' Flat

And anyone that knows me, knows that I have a REALLY hard resisting a fab pair of shoes. Some have even called me obsessed. Not that I can blame them.  Nothing has the ability to make everything better like a great pair of shoes can. When it comes to shoes, I am the consummate girl. Forget chocolate...want to fix it...get me a gift card to Nordstrom's shoe department. I'll be your best friend for life...or at least until I get the shoes home. And these Bronx 'Heat of the Nite' Flats will do just that. The shade of grey that they chose here, manage to remain in the background, but still make a statement in the way that only grey can. The style is classic. What's more classic than a pair of oxfords? But the fact they are grey, makes them just a touch unusual and thus, interesting. And we could all use a little interesting in our lives, cant we? 

You are my Sunshine, my only sunshine...

Yellow is a color that most people associate as bright and happy…a lot like sunshine. I recently wore all yellow to work, and almost 100% of the staff called me sunshine all day. Yellow is the feeling of gentle sun on your skin on a nice summer afternoon; the smell of honeysuckle in a spring breeze… Yellow is one of those colors that almost always evokes warmth and happiness. It is the perfect color for the infamous ‘smiley face.’ Most commonly associated with spring and summer, it is a color that finds it place on sundresses and straw bags.

Take this print matte jersey dress by Maggie London. Even though paired with a graphic black print, the joyful feeling of it still shines through. Sold at Nordstrom for $118 this dress can go to a summer concert, the mall, a day party or even a cocktail party with ease. Some might say it’s a bit overdressed for a walk in the park, but they also haven’t met me. A sundress and some flat sandals are a staple in summer for me. But everyone isn’t as infatuated with color as I am and might want to take a more subtle approach. This is where a statement bag will do the work for you. This Longchamp Darshan Abstract Tote is the perfect way to incorporate a shot of color without it being overwhelming or being too bright for someone with more muted tastes.

Yellow is a color that will stand out no matter where tries to hide and thus will not work for a shrinking violet. You will be seen and you will be noticed. The question is...what will you be noticed for? It comes in many shades and the wrong one can make one's skin seem sallow. Universally, bright yellow will compliment most people as happy shades look better that milky ones. Do yourself a favor and inject some happy into your life with a bright and sunny yellow. You'll be glad you did.

What's Prettier than Pink?

When it comes to the ultimate girl color, what hits closer to home than pink? From childhood, we are taught that blue is for boys and pink is for girls. And while I agree that this is something most of us grow out of, pink will always be the color of a girls girl. And I love it! Purple has always been my favorite color to look at, but pink will always be my fave to wear. Preferably hot pink. Something about this particular color seems to work well with the undertones in my skin and I couldn’t be happier about it. But pink is one of those colors that has a hue to go with every complexion, from peaches and cream to the darkest of chocolate and everything in between. While baby pink gets old after about 7 years old, blush and magenta will work for years to come.

My boyfriend told me once that I like clothing with a classic cut in an obnoxious print or color. And while at the time I assumed he was right, it wasn’t until I saw this dress that I knew he was. He usually is. This dress by Tadashi is beautiful by itself, but with the addition of the one shoulder of rosettes is just stunning. And in hot pink no less! Listed as Tadashi Shoji One Shoulder Chiffon Sheath Dress with Rosettes at Nordstrom, this dress works for a night on the town, after five or an evening wedding. With the detail on the shoulder, it eliminates the need for a necklace and simple shoes will allow this dress to shine.

Much like these Zara brand Trousers with Cord, the statement is allowed to be made in a simple way, with color. There isn’t a print to distract you. Just eye-catching color. Bold color in a simple classic cut, is timeless but interesting. A linen pant is en vogue EVERY summer, but when done in hot pink it’s a little more fun. A little more purposeful. And it is still a statement. One that can still be paired with a basic tee and simple shoes and in one fell swoop you’ve managed to come out comfortable and stylish with no added effort. A new way to do the summer uniform. Try adding a splash of well placed color and see how much better you feel that day…I bet you’ll be glowing from compliments!

Beige doesnt have to be boring, does it?

Beige is a color that has gotten a bad rap as of late, often called boring, safe and invisible. I admit that I have called these things as well, but I come to the realization that beige can be fun, in your face and just as obnoxious as the brightest of brights. Beige, much like black or navy, is a color that is often used for staples and meant to be accented by other colors or prints. Part of its purpose is to be in the background.

The shade itself runs the gammut from oatmeal to nubuck to taupe, but at the end of the day its all beige and that's not a bad thing. Take these custom made Christian Louboutin's for instance. Created specifically for Christina Aguilera for the movie Burlesque, these beauties give her petite in 5'2'' frame a lift and they do it like no other. With a nod to his "Margot" design, these white and silver shoes do wonders for the beige category. They wouldn't know how to blend into the background if they tried, and I dare say, they wouldn't even bother attempting. These are meant to be seen, flaunted and coveted and according to many sites, they are. Some girls have even requested Ms. Aguilera to pass them on. While most of us would not be able to afford something akin to these, their $2495 is a bit cost prohibitive, it is still possible to get the feeling with something much more affordable. Now while these arent going to be the pair that every girl covets, they demonstrate how one can get something just as interesting on a much smaller budget. Created by Irregular Choice, these Can't Touch This pumps are no shrinking violet themselves and scream "look at me!" And at $129 from Akira, a pair that the rest of us could actually afford.

You can see in these two examples that beige does not have to be 'boring' but there is nothing wrong with being in the background either. They both have their place, its just a matter of what you need and want. As Adrienne said, "I can't walk around on my rent," and I more than agree but a girl can dream though, cant she?

Shall we Treasure our Turquoise?

Turquoise is a color and stone that has been revered by those in power for centuries. Archealologists have discovered it adorning Egyptian queens dating as far back as 5500 B.C. and hundreds of others since then. And still today, the stone is a symbol of life, wealth and good fortune, by many cultures around the world. The turquoise stone is found in both the blue and green family. The green caused by the presence of iron in the soils where it is formed and the blue caused by the presence of copper. While the blue may be more popular in clothes and accessories today, the green is most often found in jewelry, typically that of Native American or Aztec influence. This necklace for instance, by Raymond Beard, Navajo, called Antiqued Silver Bead & Carico Lake Turquoise Naja Necklace. He uses both the blue and green turquoise stones to embelish this gorgeous silver necklace.

Because Turquoise has been around for so long, the blue shade has made it into regular rotation on the fashion circuit and just last year, 2010, was Pantone's color of the year. Because of its vibrance it floats seamlessly back and forth from accents to staples and harmoniously works with most color palettes. Even when used as an accent in an already bright color scheme, Turquoise has the ability to ground the whole outfit so as not to become overdone or stylized. These Nine West Nicefit Pumps are a great way to inject some color and suprise to an otherwise understated outfit, letting the shoe truly steal the show.

Typically a color associated with summer, its inner warmth gives those wearing it a glow. So be a queen today, powerful and revered. Maybe not the status symbol of yesterday, but the color is still one to make others stop and take notice.

Did you know that nothing rhymes with Orange?

Orange is one of those colors that universally most people feel that they cant wear. But this is not true. While we may not all be able to get away with the orange of childhood, the spectrum that exists within orange is beautiful. From pale melons to infused burnt oranges, the options are endless. Orange is a happy color that lifts spirits and can be very comforting all the while energizing. When using orange, though, most relegate it to the background for accents, and while it works well here, it can also do wonders when allowed to take center stage. But because most shades of orange are only a shade away from garish, it does benefit one to take your time with choosing the color and placement of the color so as not to become lost in it.

I was perusing online and came across these darling studs by Betsey Johnson and I actually grinned at the computer screen. While Monica may find them scary, these are a pair of studs that can lighten the mood all the while remaining understated, simply because they are studs. A way to not take yourself too seriously. Part of this is accomplished by the color in and of itself. The shiny orange laquer is unexpected but simultaneously appreciated. Maybe not appropo for every situation, certainly not for an interview or black tie dinner, but every other in between.

For me, fashion and color is about expressing yourself, having fun and not taking yourself too seriously. Everything you wear should look polished and on purpose yet not severe. Knowing who you are and exhibiting that through dress should never be a problem...though I do draw the line at a flaxseed mumu.

One of the best neutrals ever...

Per Adrienne's request, this week we are going to talk about one of the best neutral's ever. Navy. Navy is such a stately color. Its saturated, refined and stands out or blends into the background beautifully. Often used in sailor themes, it is beautifully accented by any color, though when it comes to aquatic themes, it's most often paired with red and gold. And preferably with stripes. But I digress, when it comes to neutrals, the goal is to have a color that will go with most everything else, in some way, shape or fashion. Neutrals are like basics. They mix and match and form a cohesive look, relatively easily. There is a reason why a lot of people default to black, and sometimes grey. It goes with everything, but when you are looking to spice it up and add some visual interest, try the simplicity of navy. Because navy is such a dark color is is great when worn as a bottom (ie. pants or skirt) because you can mix just about any color from your wardrobe and not have to think too hard about it. When used as a completer piece (ie. cardigan or blazer) it polishes your look in a way that makes it look like you got 'dressed on purpose.'

But dont send navy to the neutral zone to die. When done is fabulous textures and styles, navy can also make a statement. Take for instance this BCBGMAXAZRIA strapless dress. The varied textures and subtle inflections of color make this dress standout even though it is done in navy. Navy has an innate refined quality to it that says, "I'm cool, calm and collected." Navy gives the impression that one is in control of themselves and isn't afraid to be just a little bit different. Everything we wear speaks to how we feel about ourselves and what we are trying to say to the world, even if inadvertently. Black says this is my routine, my whole closet matches itself. Navy says this is my way of life, I did this on purpose. What are you saying to the world today?

Green Day...it's not just a band anymore...

I was talking to a friend of mine last night and she was giving me the details of how she had inspired "Green Day" in her Master's Program. She is a recent transplant to the Bay Area and said that people there dont wear color. Just black and grey. She and I come from the same world, where color and pattern are necessities in life and there is no reason to be bland. She said, "They look at me in my sparkly shoes like I look crazy but they're wearing a flaxseed mumu. Honey, I'm not the one that looks crazy." She said she was talking to her study group and suggested that they all wear green on Tuesday. "Well that spread like wild-fire and I get to class and EVERYONE is wearing green! It was great! Next week we're wearing purple." It was after talking to her that I remembered that it was because of her that I fell in love with jeweltones. My favorite of which is Emerald Green.

Emerald Green is one of those colors that to me is universally flattering. I have yet to see it on someone where the color is not complimentary. Because the tone of the color is relatively dark, it is most often reserved for colder times of the year and formal occasions. Personally, I think that the color translates through seasons and should not be relagated to only formal occasions. A lot of us also wear it as accessory pieces. A great statement bag or a piece of chunky jewelry that will make someone else stop in their tracks to find out where you go it. It works with most color schemes but also stands well alone. I have been looking for the perfect green tote sized purse for a while now and have yet to find THE one. I will one day. There is one from the  Cambridge Satchel Company that is trimmed in navy that I love, but it is more of a work bag than a purse, but hope is not yet lost. I will one day....have my very own Green Day.

Color of the Year - Honeysuckle

Pantone has declared that Honeysuckle is the color of 2011. And who can blame them? Honeysuckle is a color that is inspiring. The mere sight of it lifts your spirits and "emboldens us to face everyday troubled with verve and vigor."

This color, classified as a reddish pink, is bright, summery and reminds us of the plant it is named for and its ability to send us back to those carefree summer vacations at the lake with evenings spent chasing fireflies. Honeysuckle has been incorporated into many designers Spring/Summer 2011 lines and was seen consistently on the runways this February.

Being one with a predisposition for all shades of pink, I was immediately in love. The vibrant hue translates from men to women to interior design in one fell swoop. It can brighten your mood in a moment and gives an overall sense of uplifting calm and subtle control to manage any task from mundane to overwhelming. It has already been translated from high fashion to budget friendly as evidenced by Alber Elbaz in both his Lanvin line and ready to wear with H&M.

Spring and summer almost always bring with them a renewal. People begin to feel energized and motivated to reemerge into the world and experience more. Some attribute this to the change in weather and that cant be ignored, but with the change in seasons also comes the change in color schemes, like it or not. And it is these colors that really make a difference. Color has an influence on how we feel and what better color to inspire us all to conquer the world we have been retreating from for the last few months than one in the beautiful shade of PANTONE® 18-2120...better known as Honeysuckle.

Shoes to cure any boring outfit...

It is always my goal to look like I got dressed on purpose, even if I'm just wearing a tshirt and jeans. Its a fault of mine, I guess. I get it from my parents. They are ALWAYS dressed to the nines, ALWAYS. And growing up I always felt out of place...until I discovered my own style, that is.

Now while I am not always dressed to the nines as my parents were, I developed this preference to look like some thought went into what im wearing...other than it's clean. Somewhere around junior or senior in college and solidified by grad school, I managed to define my image. Most would characterize it as off-beat, odd and random but I like to think of it as classic with a twist. I enjoy traditional pieces, but those done in unconventional ways. If I'm going to wear a pair of oxfords they are going to be blue patent leather, etc. But with anyone, we all have our go-to pieces. Those pieces that are our defaults that we gravitate towards because they are familiar or easy. And along the way I decided that while a black flat shoe was easy, a purple one was unexpected, polished, on purpose.

Since that time, I have always kept a pair of them in my closet. I've had satin, leather, two-toned, patent and for me they go with everything. Everything. Some would disagree, and that's ok, but for me, throw on a pair of purple shoes, like these Steve Madden, Taylas, when you would have worn black and all of a sudden you have a pop of muted color that compliments most palettes. If you think about colors on the color wheel, those you see in stores, most of them are complimentary to purple. Not all of them match, but they definitely compliment. And for me, complimenting is all you need. Never one to be matchy-matchy, I prefer to look like I made a statement and not that I overwashed a particular piece of my wardrobe or got dressed in the dark. Thus, purple. You should try it.

Purple has always been my favorite color...but...

When it comes to color...I almost always respond to anything in the purple family...from royal purple to lavendar to cordovan...it doesnt matter, purple is my favorite. But when it comes to words, I am pretty sure that Chartreuse is it. It only helps that I like the color itself as well.

Chartreuse is a color that techincally belongs in two color families because it has two different shades. By some definitions it is both yellow and green. Personally, I prefer the green version as it is a little less harsh on the eye and still complimentary. It is not a color that most will gravitate towards, but a color with presence none-the-less. I am not one to shy away from color and usually the bolder the better. I want you to see it and think...I wouldnt have thought to use it there, but I like it. I am under no illusions that I make color decisions that would send others running, but I still want you to be able to appreciate it, even if it isnt something you would pick. And this is where a color like Chartreuse comes in.

Chartreuse is a lemon-lime shade of green that almost has a touch of neon to it but can still be very muted. There are many variations of the color and often can only be described by a picture...thus...Grammy winner for Best New Artist, Esperanza Spaulding, is wearing a very descriptive shade of Chartreuse. Some would argue that her dress is a little more citrine or even yellow, but therein lies the argument of the color, it can be both, but to me this dress is squarely Chartreuse. While she is arguably on the worst dressed list by some, personally I love the dress...its layered, ragged and stunning. Designed by Selma Karaca, it looks good on her frame and she carries the weight of the dress well. It is only better accented by her pink shoes with an interesting and chunky heel. While I am not usually a fan of pink and green together, I will let it slide this time because, well...it looks good...period. And I have a weakness for a good shoe.

My boyfriend has been encouraging me to start this blog for ages and I have been resistant for reasons I cant really define. I have always loved color and there arent many days that you wont catch me in one loud shade or another...but as with most things, we evolve. And I have finally acknowledged that he is right and if I want to some day complete a color dictionary, it might be a good idea to start jotting my ideas down, thus 'If my whole world could sparkle' was born.

When I was younger, high school and college aged, I was more prone to wearing what most call, primary colors...the crayon shades of red, green, pink etc...and as I got older, I evolved into more saturated shades of everything, even if the new shade was paler, the color itself was saturated and here is where I currently stand.

When I started this blog, I originally intended to start with purple...but as I sat here and flipped through pictures, I realized that Chartreuse was really the only option...yes purple is my favorite color, hands down...but how can one truly resist Chartreuse?