Truly Stylish

Cheap and Chic: Great Deals at Victoria's Secret Sale

alysia@trulybeautifulonline.com (Aly) — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 01:18:00 +0000

I went to the mall today for some retail therapy, but didn't buy anything. Nothing looked right. I just felt "blah." Have you ever been in one of those moods?

However, as I was leaving the mall and driving away from it I realized that I needed some lingerie or something, so I turned back and drove 3/4 mile back to the mall! Isn't that crazy? Yeah, but anyway...I was browsing around and saw some cute undies - the normal PINK stuff.

Then I wandered over to swimwear. It's 30 degrees outside, but I need some motivation to get right for Spring Break! I thought it was $15 each piece, which is still pretty cheap, but they were $5 each!!!

Yes, I said $5.

Needless to say...go to Victoria's Secret where select swimwear is ringing up for $5 bucks.

Sales are Truly Stylish.

Shoe Fiend: Giuseppe Zanotti

alysia@trulybeautifulonline.com (Aly) — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 08:20:00 +0000

Some beautiful styles by my new favorite shoe designer, Giuseppe Zanotti. You can find these on Zappos Couture.

Truly Stylish Red Carpet Watch: Worst Dressed 2009 Golden Globes

alysia@trulybeautifulonline.com (Aly) — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 06:55:00 +0000

The Worst Dressed is a tie between Drew Barrymore and Renee Zellweger.

I hate to be mean, but to be real, I would love to know who said this look was okay. They need to be fired. I love Drew Barrymore, but why did she look like "Josie Grossie" in Never Been Kissed?with the icy pink lipstick and big hair? She looks like she got shocked and her hair is standing on end. Lately, Drew has been looking great, so let's hope this is a one-time faux pas.

Truly Stylish Tip: Hair and makeup can make or break an otherwise lovely ensemble. Make sure you refrain from overdoing it.

Renee. Renee. Renee. I have no words. Sticking with one designer is great if their styles work for you, but this Carolina Herrera was not flattering. Also, the hair looks like an old-fashioned roller-set. A simple bun or textured up-do would have salvaged the dress here.

Truly Stylish Red Carpet Watch: 2009 Golden Globes

alysia@trulybeautifulonline.com (Aly) — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 05:41:00 +0000

The 66th Annual Golden Globe Awards was one of the most glamorous, star-studded events of the year so far. So many great movies, TV shows and performances were in the running for the best of the year, according to the Hollywood Foreign Press Association. My favorite got snubbed though! I was rooting for The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, but alas. I'm crossing my fingers for the Oscars.

In the midst of the tight competition, Hollywood's finest were out in their best attire. The Truly Stylish pick for Best Dressed is:

The lovely Eva Longoria, who wore a beautiful red Reem Acra (one of my favorite designers) gown with a flowing train. The simplicity of this gown carries off her classy look. The draping of the train contrasts the structured bodice. All in all, this is a classic gown worn with classic hair and makeup. With that combination, you cannot go wrong.

Truly Stylish Tip: Less is more.

Truly Beautiful, Eva!

Cheap and Chic: Watches from Forever 21

alysia@trulybeautifulonline.com (Aly) — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 21:18:00 +0000

This Forever 21 watch is a must-have at only $8.50! You can wear it to jazz up any outfit. It comes in a variety of colors, including white, yellow, pink and brown.

Purple Orchid

alysia@trulybeautifulonline.com (Aly) — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 20:17:00 +0000

The Ensemble:

Ahh! I love this outfit! I know I'm biased because I styled it, but it is one of my favorites so far because I'm on a serious purple kick. The dress in the outfit is by Miu Miu and it is made of a lightweight jersey fleece material. It is paired with some neutral, yet fab shoes to allow the dress to take center stage. The bag is a python number by Coach. It has a luxurious look to really make this ensemble eye-catching.

The earrings are turqouise and amethyst (my adopted birthstone). I think that the turquoise is a bold contrast to the jewel toned purple. It makes both colors stand out all the more.

The Hair/Makeup Look:

The hair and makeup should be very simple to go with this ensemble. Since the dress is so bright, keep your hair pulled back from your face and keep makeup very clean. A sleek, dressed up ponytail will up the chic factor of your look. Keep makeup extremely fresh-faced. Wear foundation or concealer (if you need them), mascara, light bronzer and a tinted lip balm.

Truly Stylish Tip: Wrap a thin strand of hair around your hair tie to make a simple ponytail style look more glam.

The Damage: $$ - $$$

The original ensemble, as is, is somewhat pricey, but on the lower end of the designer brand spectrum. The python Coach bag is the killer. However, the entire look can be easily duped with a similar dress from Express (I just got it on sale!) and any patent statement bag that you may already own.

Everyday Glamour

alysia@trulybeautifulonline.com (Aly) — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 19:31:00 +0000

The Ensemble:

This look is a super casual mix-up of high-waisted (not super-high) trousers and a ruffled button-down shirt with accessories that pop in a subtle way. The belt on the trousers is extremely thin, which adds a hint of color without bringing too much attention to your mid-section.

The shoes and bag pictured are very pricey, but beautiful! I am on a Louis Vuitton kick right now and seem to be falling in love with most of their handbags and accessories. I love this bag in particular because it is not the Speedy that everyone has from Chinatown.

You can tell that this bag is real because of the detailing with the stitching and the folding of the canvas. The shoes are by Christian Louboutin. Enough said. The leopard print is the perfect hint of pizazz to go with this otherwise simple outfit.

The earrings are a beautiful gold to complement the warm tones of the outfit.

The Hair/Makeup Look:

This outfit would look great with hair styled in long, flowy waves similar to Jessica Alba's look above. Great hair would complement the look's simplicity to take it a notch above casual. A minimal makeup look would also go well with the emsemble. With a rosy-mauve lip gloss, two coats of mascara and blush, you will be good to go!

Truly Stylish Tip: Never wear makeup that will overpower your outfit. Always try to complement your look with makeup and you will never go wrong.

The Damage: $$$$

This look is the epitome of inexpensive clothing made to look expensive with very pricey accessories. The trousers and button-down can be purchased on the low at a number of stores such as Gap, Banana Republic or even Forever 21. However, the Louis bag isn't so easy to replicate. A nice alternative from brands like Nine West, Guess or even Coach will still give this outfit an expensive air. The Louboutin shoes can be substituted with any animal print. Try Steve Madden for a similar look.

Primary Colors

alysia@trulybeautifulonline.com (Aly) — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 19:41:00 +0000

The Ensemble:

This look is perfect for a semi-formal evening where you want to look classic, yet modern and bold, yet understated. This beautiful, blue Zac Posen cocktail dress is paired up with the YSL peep toe heels and clutch. Accessories are subtle with David Yurman earrings and a John Hardy cuff.

The Hair/Makeup Look:

Let the beautiful Zac Posen dress do all the talking and keep your makeup and hair simple. Angelina Jolie always looks so effortlessly put together! All she seems to have on is smoky eyeliner, but she manages to look glamorous anyway.

The Damage: $$$$$

Zac Posen and Yves Saint Laurent are not cheap designer labels. This exact ensemble is for a woman who will pay to look posh. However, it can be achieved on the cheap with a blue cocktail dress from Forever 21, or even somewhere like Ross, and a red clutch.

Hit or Miss?: Leggings as Pants

alysia@trulybeautifulonline.com (Aly) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 22:34:00 +0000

Along with the resurgence of 80's fashion last year came the re-birth of leggings. Leggings look cute under shirts or dresses that would look whore-ish without them, so thank goodness for that. However, is it a fashion offense to wear those leggings without a shirt to cover your booty?

The answer is yes! Wearing this trend is officially a fashion felony. At first, I was debating this because I figured that skinny people might be able to get away with wearing this look. However, after seeing people on the street wearing tights as pants I realized that nobody needs to be that exposed. Also, the look just isn't flattering - thick, skinny, medium... just no. Especially not $60 pant-leggings (peggings?). Extra especially not velvet, pleather and sequined ones.

This is a huge... MISS

Please spare us all and skip this horrible fad!

Shoe Fiend: L.A.M.B. Spring 2009 Shoe Preview

alysia@trulybeautifulonline.com (Aly) — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 21:31:00 +0000

Even though it is just the beginning of what will be a frigid winter (it's 31 degrees in Florida now!), I'm already looking forward to the warmth of spring/summer. I hate closed toe shoes, boots - my love affair lies with sandals. I'm a true Miami girl. That said, of course I just HAD to check out Nordstrom's L.A.M.B. Spring 2009 Shoe Preview for some motivation to trudge through the winter months in North Florida.

Gwen Stefani has outdone herself. The collection is nice all around, but one shoe in particular stood out to me.

BAM!

I saw this and immediately thought, like a true shoe fiend, "I have to have them!" At $355, this probably won't happen, but these shoes are the business. I think that this is the new gladiator sandal for 2009.

Trend Watch: Stilettos with a sandal-like upper will be a summer trend, so stay on the lookout for similar styles.

Edgy Brights

alysia@trulybeautifulonline.com (Aly) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 21:26:00 +0000

This week's ensemble is bright and fun, with a definite dark edge to it. It's perfect for a casual day out on the town, but you can transition it into an evening club look because of the bold accessories. This look definitely makes a statement! It includes a Forever 21 top and Wet Seal jeans with a Chanel bag. It goes to show that you can mix and match super cheap pieces with some splurge-worthy accessories for an overall expensive look!

Rihanna in the bright denim look.

This look includes the bright denim trend that has been hot this season. Celebs like Rihanna, Fergie and Jada Pinkett-Smith have been spotted wearing this trend. However, trends aren't everything so make this look your own by adding unique accessories!

Shoe Fiend: Christian Louboutin Fall 2008

alysia@trulybeautifulonline.com (Aly) — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 21:23:00 +0000

These are some brand new, Christian Louboutin styles for Fall 2008 that I am lusting after. Louboutin... rent.... Louboutin... or 2 months rent? Although, after working in several aspects of the shoe industry, I can say that these shoes are worth the price, because of the workmanship and quality of the materials. Yet, I like a roof over my head, thanks. Therefore, we need to stay on the lookout for similar styles, girlies!

Christian Louboutin Patent Leather Ankle Wrap Peep Toe, $795

What can I say? This is just a damn sexy shoe. The ankle wrap is one of my favorite details on a shoe. It makes your legs look longer and draws the eye upward. Also, that tiny nuance makes you look sexy no matter what you are wearing. It is an absolute must in your shoe wardrobe!

Christian Louboutin, Armadillo Pleated Leather Bootie, $1,155

Booties are still hot for Fall 2008. This bootie in particular stands out from the crowd because of its rich texture. This shoe would be great with some textured tights and a great jewel-toned mini-dress.

Now, there is no need to run out and buy shoes you can't afford (if you can't pay for it cash, then you can't afford it)! Plenty of brands such as Guess, Report, Nine West and BCBG Girls make similar styles with a way more affordable price tag.

Get the Look: Halle Berry's Casual Fab

alysia@trulybeautifulonline.com (Aly) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 21:19:00 +0000

Halle Berry is known as one of the most beautiful women in the entire world. However, have you seen how she carries herself on a day to day basis (it's not a bad thing)?

She is the epitome of glamorous simplicity. She wears next to no makeup (or does a masterful job at tricking us into believing that she really looks like that) and dresses in simple garments, such as day dresses, breezy tops and comfy trousers and plain sandals.

Despite her simplicity, she is still renowned for her style and elegance. She should be an example to us all, in a world full of people who swear that they must be extra jazzy at all times in order to look good (i.e. Mariah, Kimora, et al). Sometimes, less is more.

The other day, Halle was spotted shopping in Los Angeles wearing a casual fab ensemble. I swear, she looked like a glamour queen in the most casual of attire! You can just sense her confidence shining through.

I put together a Halle-inspired look that is PERFECT for the hottest months of summer! I think that we should take a page out of her fabulous book because there is no reason why a woman who just had a baby is walking around looking better than us! We need to step our game up. Here's how!

This Halle-inspired look features extremely affordable clothing. With an Old Navy top, Wet Seal pants and Urban Outfitters & Forever 21 accessories, you may be able to afford to splurge on some lovely Tom Ford sunglasses!

This look is simple, so your makeup should be as well. Perfect your complexion with Bare Minerals foundation and add a slick of Rosebud Salve to moisturize your lips to achieve ultimate glamorous simplicity!

Backstage at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Miami 2008

alysia@trulybeautifulonline.com (Aly) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 21:13:00 +0000

On Friday, July 18, 2008, South Beach witnessed one of the first star-studded events during the annual Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim - the Shay Todd 2009 Swim Collection Fashion Show, held at the luxurious Setai Hotel.

It was one of the most humid and steamy nights I have ever experienced in my 21 years in Miami. If I was wearing my glasses, they would have fogged up! However, the Miami heat was extremely appropriate for the blazing hot swimwear that was strutted down the pool-turned-runway.

This event was my first time backstage or anywhere near a real fashion show (I'm not counting college fashion shows). There was that little board that celebs take pics in front of and everything (check out my pic below)!

I was sooo excited, but had to tone it down to keep up appearances and try to blend in as a fashionista who was accustomed to such glamorous events. This was an extremely hard task because it seemed like the glamourous life, which I previously only lived vicariously through The Fabulous Life and America's Next Top Model, was unveiled before my very eyes. I was on a keen alert for things to report back to you!

Shay Todd is an up-and-coming swimwear designer who has shown her work on several runway shows, the Sports Illustrated Swimwear Issue and several other publications. Celebrities such as Paris Hilton, Eva Longoria, Lindsay Lohan and more are fans of her sexy, modern designs.

I got to work with Shay and see her amazing designs up close. Her swimwear and cover-ups are not for the shy and probably not meant for swimming! They are perfect for lounging and looking fab by the pool. It screams Miami. Everything I saw was perfect for the glamourous side of SOBE.

Backstage at the show was a crowded and hectic scene! I stood there like a sponge, taking in everything that was going on, trying to pick up some exclusive backstage info.

Ridiculously tall models, publicists, event staff, hairstylists, Smashbox makeup artists and dressers milled around making final preparations for the event. Cameras from Entertainment show, Extra, were there interviewing the designer herself.

As the fashion show was about to begin, it was very hectic. Final touches were done to hair and makeup and we all helped the models get into their first looks. They rocked long ponytail extensions and glamorous bronze makeup, courtesy of Smashbox Cosmetics. As the music began to pulse, the show began. It went by very quickly. It was probably only 20-30 minutes long, but it was worth the wait. I'm sure the audience was wowed by the utter fabulousness of the clothing.

After the show, all kinds of people ran backstage to congratulate Shay. I spotted several celebs, including Richie Rich (of design duo Heatherette), Kristin Cavallari (from Laguna Beach) and Meagan Goode.

Overall, it was a great time! I hope I can go to some more events! Fashion shows are amazing and I can see why they are frequented by celebs! Even the gift bags are awesome. I got one filled with Nivea and Smashbox products!

Since this is the collection for next Resort & Cruise season, I got the heads up on swimwear trends for 2009!

Cut-outs still rule for one-pieces
Swimwear with grown-up ruffles are in
Bikinis with lots of hardware are also in
Get away from plain beach bags, and look for one that is embellished and glamorous
Look for cover-ups in sheer, gauzy cotton material with cute details
Simple rules! - Plain colors such as green, lavender, white and black are classics that are coming back
Go for big, gold accessories!

Fall 2008 Outerwear

alysia@trulybeautifulonline.com (Aly) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 21:07:00 +0000

In the dead heat of summer, I'm sure that the ABSOLUTE last thing on your mind is a sweater. However, it pays to start looking for your Fall wardrobe now. For one, you will save money buying off-season clothing (those always-in-style coats and jackets) in outlet stores. Also, you will be able to spot the hottest pieces before everyone is already wearing them IF you start looking now.

There is nothing I hate more than when I have been eye-ing a piece that I think is unique, only to find that a few months later everyone and their MOM (literally) is wearing it! I know you can relate. However, shopping ahead of season, YOU can be recognized as the trendsetter that you are. Read more for some hot looks to hop on that will keep you warm in the winter (when it comes).

1. The classic coat REMIXED

Diane Von Furstenburg Fall 2008 RTW

Milly (Nordstrom)

Coffee Shop, on sale now for $64.90 at Nordstrom for their Anniversary Sale

A nice coat can really jazz up anything that you wear. You could wear a garbage bag, but if you had on a fab coat, I bet you'd probably look like you were trying to make a statement rather than just looking crazy. Well, maybe not quite, but coats definitely up your style points. The classic coat remixed for 2008 has a spin - texture. Textured and patterned coats automatically give you a richer look.

2. Bomber Jackets

Bebe, $259

Hotkiss, $44.90 at Nordstrom

Bomber jackets are awesome because they give you an automatic edge when you wear them. They keep you warm, but also give you a bad-ass, Angelina Jolie in Wanted persona, even if only for a couple of days!

3. Not Your Grandma's Sweaters

Kensie, $64.90 at Nordstrom

L.A.M.B., $245 at Nordstrom

Jack BB Dakota, $35.90 at Nordstrom

I don't know about you, but I have a mild obsession with sweaters in all styles and colors. The latest sweaters are not the typical sweaters or cardigans that you're used to wearing. The new silhouette is one that is longer, patterned or chunky. You can wear a different style for every different mood you're in!

Take these looks and use them as inspiration the next time you go to the mall. Look out for these new styles and silhouettes because they are guaranteed fire for the upcoming fall season! Happy trendsetting!

Miami Eclectic

alysia@trulybeautifulonline.com (Aly) — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:58:00 +0000

This is a very young & sexy look, which I call "Miami Eclectic." It features a multi-colored Diane von Furstenburg mini-dress with vibrant, citrus hues, along with brown gladiator-inspired Guess heels. The accessories are muted for the most part because the dress speaks for itself. However, I chose turquoise earrings because I think they would look divine against a bronze tan and the bright colors in the dress. This outfit is definitely not for the shy (unless you're trying to break out of your shell!). I imagine that this would be perfect for a day of shopping on South Beach, which turns into a steamy night out on the town.

For makeup, I suggest a look that is as simple as possible because anything bright on the face could make you look clownish! I like the Smashbox summer collection because it has beautiful sheer shades which complement the ensemble. I picked the Limited Edition Oasis Shadow/Liner Quad ($30) and the Desert Chic Lip Enhancing Gloss ($18), both available at Sephora.

Click on the photo for more details and links to purchase the items!

Sass and the City

alysia@trulybeautifulonline.com (Aly) — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 20:39:00 +0000

I call this look... Mix & Match: "Sass & the City"

I put together a mash up of designer accessories and a Forever XXI dress, with a dash of Claire's Accessories jewelry. Click on the picture for more details about where to buy everything.

Trend Watch: "Tuxedo" dresses (when the bodice is white and the skirt is black, or another color) are the latest silhouette that top designers are using. There is a very similar style that is new to Nordstrom, by Shoshanna, that looks exactly like this dress, but is WAY more expensive!)

Shoe Fiend: The Shoes of Summer

alysia@trulybeautifulonline.com (Aly) — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 21:34:00 +0000

The long, cold days of Winter are dwindling and transforming into sunny, yet cool Spring afternoons (where I live at least). It's time to start putting those boots back in your closet and wearing some sandals. I have loved gladiator sandals for years, and it turns out that they are now one of the biggest trends of Summer 2008. I found several options with many different styles and prices. However, my favorite pair is way beyond the budget, but a girl can dream can't she?

Lanvin, $545 at Barneys