Bye Bye Neutrals, Hello Gorgeous!

I love summer just as much as the next girl, but I have to admit, I’m a bit anxious for fall to arrive. Not only will it mean much less humid days and hopefully nights below 80 degrees, but it also means it’s time to welcome luxe cashmere wraps, beautiful layered looks, and gorgeous leather boots back into my wardrobe.

To me, fall is the BEST season for fashion. Summer styles are all about staying cool and being effortlessly chic, but for the fall, it’s ok to look like you put some effort into your look. The one thing that is usually a bit of a bummer for fall? The adventurous shades of navy eyeliner and kiss-me-pink lips typically shy towards blah-blah browns and beiges. But not this fall! I was excited to see that boring make-up is not what’s hot for fall 2010. Some of the hottest designers like Diane Von Furstenberg and Chanel made-up their beautiful models in over-the-top smoky eyes for their fall 2010 runway shows, and the look was anything but bland. A smoky eye is always a great look for fall, and since it can look a bit too heavy in the hot summer months, I am excited to welcome this make-up staple back come autumn.

The look that I was most excited to see come down the runways, however, was the gorgeous shade of coral-meets-red that lined the pouts of models for Hervé Léger by Max Azria and Richard Chai, among other on-trend labels. Not only is such a bright, daring hue a totally unexpected look for fall, but it effortlessly rocked with both the edgy, sporty-girl looks of Léger and the slouchy-chic styles by Richard Chai. Grand prize for best make-up on the fall 2010 runways goes to Lloyd Simmonds for M.A.C. Cosmetics, who created gorgeous equestrian-inspired looks for the Vena Cava fall show. With glowing, unfussy cheeks, groomed ladylike brows, and a bold notice-me pout, this look is neutral enough for fall without being been there, done that dull. With a look this glam, I just might have to take up horseback riding!

To score a similar look, dust a warm bronzer on the apples of cheeks, sweeping upwards. Apply two coats of clump-resistant mascara (I swear by Diorshow) in dark brown or black to both top and bottom lashes. Finish with a nude lip liner topped with matte lipstick in a bright orange-red shade. To get a runway worthy look like the ladies for Richard Chai, try ROUGE VOLUPTÉ Silky Sensual Radiant Lipstick by Yves Saint Laurent in Extreme Coral or Red Muse (available at sephora.com). Added bonus: the creamy smooth lipstick packs an SPF 15 punch that will keep your pout looking and feeling fabulous all year long.

 

Like what you've seen on Dress to Express? Visit www.sicaria.com/sicariablog to see my posts as a Sicaria blog contributor. Look for posts by "Samantha" to see more of my fashion faves!



Vacation-Time: What to Pack for Your Next Trip

Three little letters on my Outlook calendar can bring a smile to my face like nothing else can: PTO. That's right, it's about time for some paid time off, aka vacation time, get-me-out-of-this-cubicle-now-time, t-minus one day til Hawaaii time, etc. Vacations are the BEST part of summer, but they also can be the most stressful. Making all the plans, footing the hefty airline fees, and worst of all: deciding what to PACK in that tiny carry-on suitcase. Heading to Maine for your annual beach trip? Making a splash in the Bahamas? Or planning a long weekend getaway with friends to the Hamptons? Wherever your vacation destination may be, Dress to Express has the tips on how to pack and what to wear to ensure your vacation is a stylish success.

First, ensure you have the essentials in your suitcase: think undergarments, a few bathing suits if you are headed to the beach, PJs to sleep in, and make-up/hair products.

Next, on to the wardrobe. When you're packing for a trip, you want to pack a few key versatile pieces that can mix and match with other separates as well as some easy to wear dresses and a few pair of shoes that will go with all of the above.

You'll need a few basic pieces, like brightly colored tees that would work for everything from a mini-golf outing to brunch at a local diner. From Victoria's Secret, you'll want to pack two or three lightweight tanks or tees--I prefer the yellow scoopneck version below which is bra-friendly and works great with statement necklaces due to the lower neckline. These come in a range of colors, from basic white and black to georgeous yellow topaz (seen below) and turqouise. For a city trip, basic black and navy shades may work best, but for the beach, I prefer a splash of color that will look great against sunkissed skin.

Next, you'll need a great skirt or classy pair of shorts. I prefer a bit of a dressier short in a dark shade that can transition from day to night. The black silk shorts by Central Park West are designed in an any-age appropriate length with a comfortable drawstring waist fit.

Next, especially if you're headed to the beach, you'll want a few great tunics and dresses that you can wear as both coverups and on their own. From Velvet by Graham and Spencer, this black and white print dress with neckline embellishments is made of  a silk cotton blend that is both breathable and elegant. With a self-belt at waist, it is figure flattering and paired with dressy flats or neutral wedges, this frock is the perfect way to look effortlessly chic without sacrificing comfort.

For beach cover ups or casual daytime dresses, I love these looks by Tolani and Kate Spade (one of my all-time favorite designers for everything from jewelry and bags to clothing and sunglasses) because they are long enough and substantial enough (read: not see through) to wear as dresses but easily look and feel like they belong on sandy beaches too. When you're off the beach, pair these looks with a gold pendant necklace and pretty neutral wedges, like the ones from B. Makowsky, to ensure your look is ready for dry land.

For jewelry, I suggest deciding on either gold or silver accessories in order to cut down on what you'll need to fit in that suitcase. Mixing metals is still "in," but it can be difficult to pull off, so I suggest going one route or the other and coordinating your shoes, handbags, etc, so you won't need to pack two of each.

Whether you're going the gold or silver avenue, I love the ease of this simple-chic necklace by Gorjana (also available in silver). The intricately designed pendant hits just below the bust and looks great with everything from white tees to long maxi dresses.

Finally, you'll need some footwear, and thought it is no secret that I love a good heel, on vacation, you shouldn't be uncomfortable, and frankly, heels often look out of place in a beach town if that's where you're headed. Instead, opt for feet-friendly wedges that will take you from day to night without the pain of their heeled counterparts. You'll also need a great pair of flat sandals for grocery runs and to wear around the hotel (condo, house, etc). I love these leather flats by Pour La Victoire, complete with cutesy bow detailing and rocker-girl studs. Given this sweet and tough combination, these sandals look right-at-home with almost any look, from edgy statement necklaces to girlie girl ruffled tops.

From Left (Top Row): Victoria's Secret Scoopneck Tee; $15.50 or 2/$20 Sizes: XS-XL; www.victoriassecret.com; Central Park West Montauk Drawstring Silk Shorts; $152, Sale $105.99; Sizes: XS-L; www.piperlime.com;  Velvet by Graham and Spencer Tahiti Print Ada Dress; $187; Sizes: XS-L; www.piperlime.com; Tolani Mosiac Tunic in Pink; $107; Sizes: S-L; www.revolveclothing.com; also at www.shopthetrendboutique.com;

From Left (Bottom Row): Kate Spade Lychee Lindsay Beach Tunic; $265; Sizes: XS-XL; Color: Salsa Multi; also in Royal Multi; www.katespade.com; B. Makowsky Anne Caged Sandal; $139.95; Sizes: 5.5-10; Color: Goldwash; Also in Black and Blue; www.nordstrom.com; Gorjana McCoy Sandal; $150, Sale $84.99; Size: OneSize; Color: Gold, Also in Silver; www.piperlime.com; Pour La Victoire Erika; $220; Sizes: 6-9.5; Color: Black, Also in  Dusty Peach; www.piperlime.com

CLICK ON PHOTO ABOVE TO ENLARGE

There are a few pieces that are a must-have for me on any summer getaway, whether I'm headed to the beach or the Big Apple. From Banana Republic, this lightweight vest can easily be thrown over a bathing suit as a mini beach cover up or tossed over a teeshirt and shorts for a casual dinner out. And cut from an airy linen, it provides a nice extra layer for those extra chilly restaurants (Why do they always pump the AC to 40 degrees at the beach? People go there because it's warm for heaven's sake!) yet it's not too heavy for warm weather climates.

Banana Republic Linen Two Pocket Open Vest; $69.50; Sizes: XS-XL; Color: White, Also in Boardwalk; www.bananarepublic.com

From BCBG Max Azria, this gorgeous bold printed dress is a must-pack. The jersey fabric resists wrinkles and looks as great coming out of your suitcase as it did on the hanger. Read: no one wants to (or should!) spend their vacation time ironing, so look for fabrics like this one made of a Rayon and Spandex blend. The easy straight shape of this shift works with flats for a grocery store run or with wedges and a pile of bangles for a night on the town at the local tavern. And since the colorful geometric print appears on both the front and reverse of this gorgeous frock, you'll be sure to make both an amazing entrance and exit.

BCBG Max Azria Sleeveless Printed Dress; $168.00; Sizes: XS-L; Color: Bright Chambray Combo; http://www.bcbg.com/ 

Here's to getting out of the office and away from the 9-5 stress for some much needed, stylish R&R! Enjoy, and be sure to sip a frozen one for me!

Happy Shopping (& Packing), and Don't Forget to Dress to Express (Yourself!) :0)

Fashionably Yours,

Samantha

Suit Up!

Two little words can strike fear in the hearts of even the most confident, beautiful, secure women across the globe. You guessed it...."Swimsuit Season!" Summertime is the season for surf, sand, and lots of fun at the beach and pool, which also means it's time to strut your stuff in swimwear.

Bathing suits, not unlike dresses or tops, come in all different shapes, colors, and sizes...and not everyone looks good in the same one. If you were blessed with long limbs and a high metabolism, you can probably get away with just about any suit. (No thongs at public pools or beaches, please--I don't know where anyone got the idea that baring your down-there "cheeks" is A-OK...but I'm not of that school of thought- nor are most Americans I know- so keep 'em covered, ladies). However, if you're not a waif-like model or a woman proud to strut her curves (or "wobbly bits" as Bridget Jones refers to her ladylike parts...I personally love this expression, because let's face it, we've all got a wobble here or there), finding a swimsuit that is flattering can be difficult. Finding a suit that is slenderizing is next to discovering the fountain of youth.

Lucky for all of you loyal blog followers, I've scoured the web high and low for suits that would flatter anyone from ladies with wide hips to generous sized "girls." No matter your shape or size, rest assured there IS a suit for you!

(Please note: In most of my blogs, I try to feature at least one or two "bargain fashion finds." I did not make such an effort with this blog, and this is why: the fabric swimwear is made of and the quality of the construction is extremely important. After all, you ARE going to be wearing this tiny piece of fabric and nothing else, so it had better hold up and it had better look (and make you look!) good. Bargain swimwear, in my experience, is not a bargain at all. If a suit doesn't do anything for you, no matter how wonderful it may look on a model or anyone else, it's going to end up in a ball on the bottom of your closet all summer long. You need to feel good in swimwear in order to actually wear it (this is the objective, after all), and many women buy just one new suit each summer. So fork up the bucks for a look that's truly flattering and enjoy the rewards of your totally-worth-it splurge!

Now, let me begin with saying that the secret to a slenderizing suit is not in covering yourself up from head to toe in fabric! It's about maximizing what you've got and minimizing what you perhaps wish you didn't. Since today's blog is focused on slenderizing suits (per suggestion from one of Dress to Express' most loyal followers.....hi, Mom) I will only briefly mention bikini styles. It's not that bikinis can't be flattering, but unless you've got somewhere between a mostly-flat belly to gymaholic washboard abs, this style can look sloppy, and I'm personally not a fan of this look for anyone beyond their 30s. Too little (fabric), too late (in life).

That being said, I have to add my "itsy bitsy bikini" 2 cents in for good measure. If you've got youth on your side and have the bod for bikini styles, these pairings look best on all figures when the bottoms and tops are proportional in terms of coverage, i.e. triangle string bikinis paired with tanga bottoms. (see Victoria's Secret website if you haven't heard of these yet...I'm fairly certain they come from Brazil, where the women are this.big. and derrieres are tan year round) This combination (admittedly not for the self-conscious) seems to "match" because, well, you're baring pretty much all you can while wearing a suit--both on the top and the bottom. However, this look offers little support, so if you're big chested and/or apple-bottomed, this look is likely not for you. Instead, if you're set on going the bikini route and want a bit more coverage, I recommend trying a substantial halter top that ties at both the neck and the back (so you can adjust to your perfect fit) paired with a moderate coverage scoop bottom in a subtle print or a bright turquoise or coral shade for a look that's flirty and chic. One nice, could-wear-in-front-of-someone's-mother option is below. By Cosabella, this style comes in a black and white print and is available at Piperlime. I digress...

Cosabella - Sahara Bikini Top and Bottom; Top: $86.00, Bottom: $83.00; Sizes: S-L; http://www.piperlime.com/

Back to slenderizing. When it comes to our bodies, there are a few things us women tend to want to...err...hide. Whether you're looking to disguise your margarita belly left over from spring break or you're just not comfortable with your stomach (are any of us women truly?), this option from MiracleSuit may be just the perfect fit for you. The flurry of ruffles and super-chic ruching at the navel will slenderize your midsection without sacrficing style. A fun and functional bonus, this suit ties at the neck, allowing you to adjust to find the perfect fit for your chest (just be sure to double knot, please). And made of a super fabric called Miratex, this suit packs three times the lycra spandex as the average swimwear fabric, so your tummy will look three times as fab! What margaritas?

MiracleSuit - Isabella Halter One Piece; $142.00; Sizes 8-16; Colors; Navy (shown), Black;  www.saksfifthavenue.com

Want to accentuate toned shoulders and arms while slimming hips? Try this great, on-trend option by Michael Kors. In always-slimming black, this one-shouldered beauty features leather and gold accents to add a touch of glimmer, while the removable self-belt at natural waist evens out wide hips. Kors does it again!

For a similar effect in a strapless silhouette, try the navy look from Marc by Marc Jacobs. If you're bigger on top, this strapless style may not offer enough support for your top half--though with built-in underwire cups, this super cute suit is surely worth a shot! [Piperlime recommends sizing one size up in this style]. 

Michael Kors - One Shoulder Retro Leg Maillot; $276.00; Sizes 4-12; Color: Black; http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/

Marc by Marc Jacobs - Bandeau Maillot Swimsuit; $173.00; Sizes: XS-XL; Color: Navy; www.piperlime.com

Last, but not least, want to support your bust, slim your love handles, and smooth your legs...all in the same suit? My thoughts exactly....WHO DOESN'T? This style is not only colorful, comfortable, and chic, but it comes from a brand beloved by women everywhere. That's right ladies, SPANX, the fantastic line of hosiery and shaperwear (launched in 1998 by Sara Blakely after cutting the feet out of a pair of stockings--why is it again that didn't I have that idea?) now designs SWIMWEAR. (Even from where I currently sit in a dimly lit, suburban Philadelphia hotel room, upon merely typing these glorious words, I can hear the cheers of women from across the nation.)

What I love about this style below is that it is actually a tankini. However, the fabulous, clever women (and men! I'm rather sure there may be a chap or two on the payroll) of Spanx have designed this tankini with a full-coverage bottom that sits just below the natural waist, thus preventing the dreaded "tankini spillover." You've all seen this--someone (young or old) wears a too-tight, too-short tankini top with a too-small, not-high-up-enough bottom, and the end result is a midsection bulge that is less than flattering. Not at all the case with this style. In delicious shades of chocolate and teal, wear with confidence knowing that not only will your tummy stay tucked away inside your suit where it belongs, but it also will look slimmer and smoother than ever thanks to the suit's genius super-premium jersey fabric. I rest my case.

Spanx - Halter Tankini and High Waist Bottoms; Halter: $128.00, Bottoms: $78.00; Colors: Teal, Chocolate; http://www.neimanmarcus.com/; also at http://www.spanx.com/

Until next time, here's to having fun in the sun and knowing that you look great while doing it. Oh, and don't forget the sunblock. :o)

Happy Shopping and Don't Forget to...SUIT UP & GET IN THE POOL ALREADY!

Fashionably Yours,
Samantha

Bare that Beautiful Sole...

Do you LOVE shoes more than chocolate, Brad Pitt, and gelato combined? If so, you're in luck! This spring, there were lots of fabulous footwear trends spotted on the runways, from the menswear inspired looks at Cynthia Steffe to the see-through sandals dripping in lucite gems at Prada. Much to my own surprise, my favorite looks were the high-end clogs featured in nearly every look at the Chanel runway show (see below). Making something old new again  is always in style, and Karl Lagerfeld and co. breathed a breath of fresh and seriously unexpected air into the clog-laden footwear of Chanel's Spring/Summer 2010 Collection.

Find clogs a bit intimidating or too Netherlands-inspired for your taste? Spring offered plenty of looks that are a bit easier to pull off for those who like to keep their look a bit more classic. From nude strappy heeled sandals to the comfy but cute gladiator sandals, spring is all about fantastic footwear!

To glam up a pair of shorts (remember to keep length age and figure appropriate, please), try a towering heel in a flesh-toned color to lengthen your legs and add a nightime edge to a typically daytime separate. Not crazy about stilettos? (I can't imagine anyone who wouldn't be!...Hmm,come to think of it, I actually have a few heel-averse women in my own family aka everyone but yours truly...) For night or day and a look that is as comfortable as it is chic, try a still-hot gladiator sandal in a flat style.

For today's blog, I've featured only shoes available at one of my favorite shopping websites, ZAPPOS. If you haven't yet heard of Zappos, you're probably the only person in America who can stake that claim! (I'm only slightly joking...). For those who are perhaps a bit less online-shopping and/or shoe-obsessed than yours truly, Zappos is a fantastic online retailer that began selling nothing but shoes and more shoes several years ago (Zappos was chosen as the company name as a derivative of "zapatos," which is Spanish for shoes) but has since forayed into clothing, accessories, and much more. Best of all, SHIPPING IS FREE AND FAST ON ALL ORDERS (including returns!) and customer service is definitely above average.

For the fresh-take-on-clogs trend, try one of looks below from Stuart Weitzman, Biviel, or Steve Madden. What I love about these styles are the studded embellishments that add an unexpected toughness to what can be an otherwise country-esque shape. Afraid of trying the clog trend? Try the sexy Greta shoe by Elizabeth and James (MaryKate and Ashley Olsen's footwear line)--the closed toe and platform shape resembles a clog while the slingback and stiletto heel keep this stlye from becoming a literal translation. Also, the metallic color is gorgeous and versatile--pair with everything from a denim shirtdress to cropped city shorts and a ruffled tee.

Looks from Left: Stuart Weitzman Stud Clogs, $345.00; Biviel BV2605,$190.00; Steven by Steve Madden Barc, $139.00. (All styles available at http://www.zappos.com/) 

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Elizabeth and  James Greta,$429.00.

For a day-to-night shoe that works with everything from spring's denim leggings and baggy cargos to hot-again miniskirts and work-appropriate sheaths, try a nude sandal in a sophisticated leather with a substantial heel to add height and drama to otherwise tired looks. Want to let a new spring frock steal the spotlight? The flesh colored tones make these looks perfect for completing an otherwise busy printed wrap-dress or toning down a sequin top with a refreshing minimalist air.

Looks from Left: BCBG Max Azria Haze, $250.00; Max Studio Xema, $143.00; Calvin Klein Prima $125.00, Sale $112.50; Jessica Simpson Clonise, $79.20, Sale $71.00. (All styles available at http://www.zappos.com/)

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Lastly, and most likely to be embraced by your tootsies, is the gladiator sandal. While this trend has been around for a few seasons, it's as hot as ever and has been spotted in a variety of styles, from sky-high heels and wedges to feet-friendly flats. For a casual-cool look, pair studded flat gladiator sandals in neutrals, metallics, or embellished black hues to add some tough-girl edge to your go-to weekend looks. I love these sandals just as much with the season's on-trend cropped cargo pants as with an airy sundress--they are versatile and so easy to wear. Thinking about rocking these styles for work? Remember to keep your office dresscode policy in mind--for some, these looks are too casual for the office, while for others, these looks will breeze through 9-5 with ease. Whether for work or weekend, choose from one of the many styles and colors available at Zappos; some of my favorites include these looks by Pour La Victoire, Daniblack, and the foot-and-wallet-friendly styles by Report.

 Looks from Left: Pour La Victoire Adrianna $314.00, Sale $251.20; Daniblack Becks, $139.00; Report Jilly, $80.00, Sale $72.00. (All styles available at www.zappos.com)

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Spotted a footwear trend you're loving for spring that should be featured here? Something you'd like to see explored on Dress to Express? Comments and topic suggestions are welcome!

Until then, here's to warm weather and pedicured toes, please. :o) Happy Shopping and Don't Forget to Dress to Express (Yourself)!

Fashionably yours,
Samantha

Spring 2010: In the Clear...

Looking for a way to revamp last year's favorite finds for spring 2010? To take your look from drab to fab, all you need to do is slip on something translucent, chic, and totally of-the-moment and you'll be in the fashion clear.


Spring 2010 runway's were lined with all sorts of gorgeous accessories, from stacked beyond-neon bangles at DVF to unexpected tromp-l'oleil tights paired with a new take on wooden clogs at Chanel. But the easiest and most accessible looks from Spring 2010 were the delicious lucite pieces that were seen on some of the hottest designer runways.


From delicate floral painted bangles at Chanel to clear, chunky baubles and see-through piped pumps at Michael Kors, this spring, all you need are a few translucent pieces to infuse your wardrobe with some spunky spring pizazz. The embellished lucite heels at Prada-draped in show-stopping clear jewels-are a great way to add an unexpected twist to your favorite jeans or a classic shirtdress.

CAN'T-GO-WRONG PICK OF THE WEEK

Want to try the translucent trend without the risk? Don these gorgeous flower earrings hand made of white topaz to add a touch of girlie chic to your everyday relaxed tees and cropped cargos or to reenergize your Friday night on-the-town frock. Got long, full locks? Don't forget to pull your hair into a loose side braid a la Alexander Wang (see below) to show off your gems & steal the spotlight!  

Amanda Rudley Little Flower Earrings; Color: White Topaz; $180.00; www.charmandchain.com

Alexander Wang Spring 2010

To score a runway worthy look, try a long, statement necklace like the gorgeous, bargin bauble from Aqua. Bangles from Kate Spade mix the clear lucite trend with brilliant orange and blue for a look that is as playful as it is chic. Or for a lucite look that literally grounds your look, try a pretty yet practical sheer shoe like the flat beauties from Stuart Weitzman. For a look that easily transitions from desk to dinner, try the KORS Michael Kors slingback option which mixes gorgeous patent leather with a thick lucite heel.

 

LEFT: Aqua Triple Row Lucite Torsade Necklace; Color: White; $65.00; www.bloomingdales.com; SECOND TO LEFT: Kate Spade Candy Stripe Bangle; Color: Orange (also available in Navy); $55.00; www.katespade.com; SECOND TO RIGHT: Stuart Weitzman Vinyl Low-Wedge Sandal; Color: Clear; $298.00; www.neimanmarcus.com; RIGHT: KORS Michael Kors "Gibson" Lucite Slingback Pumps; Color: Black Patent (also available in Rouge Patent); $250.00; www.bloomingdales.com

For a fashinable look this spring, limit your lucite accessories to one area of your outfit, i.e. try shoes OR a translucent necklace. Nervous about taking the sheer plunge? Chunky bangles are an easy way to try the trend--pile them on with other lucite bracelets or with your favorite leather cuff for a look that's all your own.

Happy Shopping, and Don't Forget to Dress to Express!

Fashionably yours,
Samantha

PS- Florals were postponted and will be appearing  in next week's blog, so stay tuned!  

All that Glitters is...Silver!

This spring, the runways were lined with shimmery metallics and sequins, from the gorgeous multi colored frock at Vera Wang (see above) to chic black and silver crushed matelasse at Michael Kors, proving that sequins and metallics can extend far beyond the winter months. Who couldn't use a dose of shimmer to help us usher in the much anticipated spring?

My favorite looks on the spring runways were the pieces featuring metallics and sequins in brilliant shades of slate, pewter, and gorgeous silver sheen. From 3.1 Phillip Lim's sexy separates, to the ultra-glam dresses from Cynthia Steffe and Michael Kors (love the illusion netting--Kors features a similar silhouette in a beautiful black option as well), to the bubble-shaped metallic gem from Jason Wu, all that shimmers for spring is SILVER!

For a make-it-your-own twist on these runways looks, I'm loving these stylish (and more wallet-friendly) options. I adore the Sequin Column dress by 3.1 Phillip Lim...incorporating the still-fresh-for-spring one shoulder trend and in a chic knee-length that is both flirty and polished (available at barneys.com; $895.00). For a get-you-noticed look at a bargain price, the Illusion Yoke Sequin Shift Dress from ABS by Allen Schwartz is a striking option with beautiful ombre-esque sequins that flow from pure silver to dark pewter (available at neimanmarcus.com; $350.00; also at nordstrom.com; $318.00). The toned down matte sequins make this a "life of the party" style without going over the top.  For a stylish super steal that's ultra-versatile, try the Nora Knit Tunic by Elie Tahari (available at couture.zappos.com; $152.00). This vivacious tank features pearl grey melange sequins on the front, with a strech knit back that makes this look both chic and comfortable!

Just as sequins aren't only for the winter, they are also absolutely workable for the daytime. To avoid looking overdone during the 9-5 hours and winding up a fashion-don't, pair shimmery pieces with muted, minimalistic accessories. Try layering an on-trend denim utility jacket overtop a sequin tank or shift to up the daytime-appropriate factor. Pair with nude oxford shoes in flat, tailored  styles to create a look that's part ultra-feminine chic mixed with borrowed from the boys cool.

Next week, watch out for spring 2010's take on florals. It seems that florals are "in" every spring, but this year's takes feature bold, large floral prints in unusual silhouettes, and the result is a look that is both versatile and easy to pull off.

Until then, happy shopping, and don't forget to (bundle up if you're on the East Coast & weathering the storm like yours truly) and Dress to Express!

Fashionably yours,
Samantha

Top it off: Spring's freshest outerwear

Just when you were dreaming of tossing your peacoat or North Face in the fireplace (it's no secret that winter coats can be hassle,what with the constant on,off, and on-again), Spring 2010 outerwear is here to prove that coats and jackets don't have to be boring, bulky, or a fashion buzz kill.

Classic trench coats in delicious shades of lime, coral, and can't-go-wrong khaki are here to stay, while abstract prints in neutral colors and unusual silhouettes breathe fresh life into spring's outermost layer. Leather jackets remain in the mix (no need to stash your winter splurge just yet), and who would guess?-jean jackets are back and popping up everywhere! The latest takes feature refined denim in easy-to-wear blazers and on-trend military styles.

This fashionista has scoured the web (no need to emerge from winter hibernation just yet) for spring's freshest outerwear at gotta-have-it splurges and can't-beat-that-deal steals.

Whether you're a classic dresser who likes to keep things simple, an on-trend diva who never leaves home without the latest InStyle, a rocker-chic femme who works leather from 9-5 and beyond, or a lover of oldies-but-goodies (or a combination of each--expressing your personal style means you never have to choose just one!), spring's latest outerwear looks offer something to meet your budget and your personal style.

CAN'T-GO-WRONG PICKS OF THE WEEK

This spring, trenches arrive in luxurious shiny satin and vibrant colors, hitting at or slightly above the knee. Wear with confidence in these can't-go-wrong picks of the week!

LEFT: Splurge; Ralph Lauren Blue Label Classic Trench Satin Trench (Color: Tug Hill Tan; Sizes: 2-14); $598; ralphlauren.com. RIGHT: Steal; London Fog Double Breasted  Short Trench Coat (Color: Key Lime, also in White or Black; Sizes: Small-XLarge); $98; nordstrom.com.

Abstract prints in a multitude of heavenly neutrals lined spring's runways. Snag your of-the-moment jacket in a short, hip-hitting style or try an above the knee silhouette.

LEFT: Splurge; Piazza Sempione Short Sleeve Printed Cotton Jacket (Color: Brown/Ivory; Sizes: 2-14); $1,195; saksfifthavenue.com (now available for pre-order). MIDDLE: Splurge; Tracy Reese Black Shadow Dots 3/4 Coat (Color: Black multi; Sizes: P-L); $440; tracyreese.com. RIGHT: Steal; J.Crew Neapolitan Lady Jacket (Color: Violet Dust; Sizes: 0-14); $228; jcrew.com.

Denim jackets are back in slim, figure-flattering silhouettes. Try an office-appropriate blazer with rolled-up cuffs or a laid-back military shape for a look that's effortlessly cool.

LEFT: Splurge; Nanette Lepore Denim Petal Jacket (Color: Denim; Sizes: 0-12); $398; neimanmarcus.com (now available for pre-order). MIDDLE: Steal; Arden B. Chambray Boyfriend Blazer (Color: Chambray; Sizes: XS-L); $59; ardenb.com. RIGHT: Steal: GAP Denim Utility Jacket (Color: Medium; Sizes: XS-XXL); $69.50; gap.com.

Leather jackets are a wardrope staple that translate across the seasons. The latest looks combine leather and lighter, more airy fabrics in at-the-hip lengths. Pair with a sheer, floral blouse and metallic blush or lucite accessories to keep the look fresh for spring.

LEFT: Splurge; Robert Rodriguez Waxed Leather & Denim Jacket (Color: Black; Sizes: 2-10); $627; saksfifthavenue.com. MIDDLE: Steal; bebe Leather and Knit Military Jacket (Color: Black; Sizes: XS-L); $229; bebe.com. RIGHT: Steal: BB Dakota Jessie Cadet Leather Jacket (Color: Storm; Sizes: XS-M); $240; piperlime.com.

Happy shopping, and don't forget to Dress to Express (Yourself!)

Fashionably yours,
Samantha