Fashion

Let’s Get Physical

Our Picks For Best Activewear

There seem to be two types of people when it comes to working out: those who like to sweat, and those who like to be seen. Women who fall into the latter group very well may show up to the gym with a full face of makeup and a blowout. The others? A ponytail and water bottle. And while we’ll never discourage looking great, we prefer to dress well for the gym and maximize our sweat sessions at the same time.

In our busy lives, workouts are likely squeezed in-between meetings, before work, during work, after work, and on the weekends, wedged somewhere between brunch and shopping. Which essentially means looking good for life and the gym actually does matter. Our picks for fitness, below, don’t compromise style and will take your from day to play (and back again) with ease.

CONTEMPORARY FASHION-FORWARD
Hard Tail
T-Back Tie-Dye Halter Top
$58, Nordstrom.com
Adidas by Stella Mccartney
Ordfox Boots
$185, Zappos.com
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CLASSIC CONTEMPORARY
Old Navy
Active Shelf-Bra Tank
$16.50, Oldnavy.com
Nike
Dharma Women’s Yoga Cover Up
$70, Nike.com
FASHION-FORWARD FASHION-FORWARD
Adidas by Stella Mccartney
‘CU Run’ Knit Pants
$100, Nordstrom.com
Asics
Onitsuka Tiger in Snake/Black Gold
$63, Zappos.com

Stay Cool

Cold Weather Accessories

The weather outside may be frightful but dressing like a ragamuffin in the midst of a long winter is a major no-no. Of course, not all cold-weather accessories are wooly and cumbersome — far from it! — which is why our picks are both functional and playful.

Because bundling up does not mean dressing sloppily, we’ve got gloves, mittens and scarves to keep exposed skin toasty and will keep you looking less like a snowman and more like a snowbunny. Read on for our picks, perfect for chilly temps and sure to make you love layering.

FASHION-FORWARD CONTEMPORARY
Barneys New York
Leather Gloves
$149, Barneys.com
Burberry
Print Fringe Stripe Scarf
$210, Bloomingdales.com
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CLASSIC CONTEMPORARY
Arc’teryx
Inga Toque Hat
$30, Arcteryx.com
Foursquare
Chow Print Mittens
$50, Pacsun.com
FASHION-FORWARD CLASSIC
Cheap Monday
Molly Legwarmers
$37, Ssense.com
Surell
Genuine Fox Fur Head Wrap
$160, Bloomingdales.com

Out With the Old. In with the….Old??!!

The dog days of winter is the time of year I like to start my Spring cleaning. If you are anything like me, sometimes there are favorite items in my wardrobe that get lost in the back of my closet, so when they are found, it is the same as finding a pot of gold! I also like to rotate out more fashiony items in my closet and put them away for when they feel new and on-trend again.

For those of you like me, here are some of the key clothing trends for this Spring to help you figure out what to keep in storage until next year, what to get ready to wear again, and what items may go on your wish list of things to buy this Spring.

A lot of the trends this Spring have been around before, so chances are you have some great pieces in your closet that are ready to come out again!

Tribal prints and details were everywhere for Spring, from Gucci, to DVF and even Balenciaga. While a majority of these looks are totally over the top, you can incorporate animal prints, fringe and prints in colors of the desert, like browns, golds, and orange, like the sunset.

Denim was found from New York to Europe in every iteration so there is no time than this season to pull out your chambray tops, skirts and dresses, along with your favorite denim duds. Always remember to be careful when pairing jeans with denim tops or jackets. Try to wear different shades of denim at one time, if you feel compelled to wear denim head-to-toe. Otherwise, just pick your favorite piece and pair it with something non-denim or chambray.

Military inspired pieces, including trench coats, are still hot. All shades of khaki and army green, including camouflage, are in this season. Keep your look a little more feminine by pairing it with a something lacy or sheer (but not revealing). If you’re curvy, be sure to belt your look to show off your curves.

Texture in fabrics were everywhere. To get a similar effect from the runways, keep wearing your ruffled tops and bottoms. Don’t be afraid to layer a few different textured items at one time. For example, wearing your ruffled top with a fuzzy sweater to add a sense of depth to your clothes.

Keep reading our Fashion Reports everything Thursday for more on this season’s trends and what our favorite designers are up to. And if you’re not sure what will look right on you, check out our Style Profile and fill out our questionnaire so we can help you maximize your features and look.

- Melissa

Q&A with Camille Bergher

Creative Director of Pure Energy

As Creative Director for Pure Energy, Camille Bergher’s aim is make women look fabulous. Camille recently partnered with Target to create a plus-sized Pure Energy line available in January and to fill a niche in the market for more fashion-forward styles for sizes often overlooked.

Camille Bergher’s latest Pure Energy collection is chock-full of trendy frocks, distressed denim, flowy tunics, and floral prints that are total standouts from the usual plus-sized fashion offered on the market, especially in mega-retailers like Target.

“Working with cutting-edge designers and with the support of a retailer the size of Target, Pure Energy will keep its customers on-trend no matter what the season,” says Camille. Read on for more about this collection worth getting energized about.

Tell us a little about this collection for Target. What set’s it apart from other plus-size lines? What are some highlights of the collection?

Pure Energy was originally conceived to fill a void in affordable trendy plus-size fashion. We take the latest trends and make them flattering for curvy girls. The entire collection is a highlight, but our best sellers are the leggings, floral dresses, and distressed denim.

What was the greatest challenge in creating this collection?

Designing plus-size styles that flatter the natural curves of a woman is very difficult. Plus-size ladies come in all shapes and sizes, and we strive to get a fit that works for everyone.

Obviously not everyone is shaped the same, and we’re wondering if you used different plus-sized fit models in creating this collection.

We’ve worked with numerous plus-size models and focus groups. Our designs start with a size 12-14 model, but obviously we make adjustments as necessary. In October we worked with Lizzie Miller, known for her recent semi-nude plus-size shot in Glamour magazine. This was the first time we worked with such a small model, but it was a great experience to see how our shapes fit her body.

Given that many of us are not size twos and fours (let alone zeros!) what are some tips you’ve learned to slenderize using clothing?

Stay away from boxy or shapeless styles. Accentuate your assets. Tight where it’s good, flowy where it’s not!

What’s one thing a plus-sized gal should avoid? Similarly, can you still be trendy and wear plus-sized clothes?

Plus-sized gals should avoid the extremes. Nothing too tight, nothing too loose. You know your best assets, so find styles that show those curves off! And yes! Anyone can be trendy and hip — that’s what Pure Energy is here for.

What’s the design process for you like? Was it different for this collection?

I start with hundreds of ideas, piles of fabrics, and start putting the puzzle together. It’s the same process for each collection, but there are always things that change. This collection we spent more time with fabric and color, as we’re starting to get a better grasp on the shapes and fit.

Who are your favorite designers?

I love Alber Elbaz (Lanvin), Vivienne Westwood, Phillip Lim, Kimberly Ovitz, Rick Owens, and The Row.

What’s on your fashion wish list for Spring 2010?

I really like classic, timeless accessories right now. But in my dream world? A vintage Chanel bag, Louboutin black pumps, or a classic Rolex. I like to mix classic accessories with affordable trendy fashion.

What are some of your closet staples?

Leggings, blazers, skinny jeans, long cardigans.

What’s your favorite trend of all time?

It’s impossible to pick one! I love jeans, so maybe this decade long denim craze?

What trend do you wish would disappear for good?

Acid wash and skull prints.

Pure Energy is sold exclusively at Target stores and online at Target.com. Sizes offered are 1 - 4 (or 14-24) with prices ranging from $14.99-$29.99.

All-Weather Boots

Great Winter Boots
Snow, slush and puddles may signify winter’s arrival but how do such harsh elements mix with stylish footwear? Better than you think. We’ve found a collection of footwear to prove that there is a way to stay warm and look hot in bad winter weather.

Whether you’re hitting the slopes or navigating snowy city streets, we’ve got winter boots to keep you toasty warm and looking good. And with price points to match any budget, your wallet will be as cozy as your (dry) feet.

Read on for our choice picks.

FASHION FORWARD

Prada
Dark Brown Sheepskin Boot
$750, Neimanmarcus.com

FASHION FORWARD CLASSIC
Timberland
Winnicut Tall Waterproof Boot
$169.95, Endless.com
Tretorn
Faux-Fur Lined Kelly Vinter Boot
$70, Zappos.com
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CONTEMPORARY FASHION FORWARD
Sorel
“Helen of Tundra” Boot
$149.95, Nordstrom.com
Quoddy
Handmade Ring Boot
$300, Jcrew.com
CLASSIC CONTEMPORARY
White Mt.
Train Fur Trim Boot
$68.95, Endless.com
UGG Australia
Endell Boot
$200, Uggaustralia.com

Inspired by Nine

Stylish Picks Inspired by Upcoming Musical Movie

Aside from the obvious things we love about this time of year — gift giving, parties, and post-holiday sales — we also love the crop of amazing holiday movies premiering, and this season we’re particularly jazzed for Nine. This new musical, starring a hot crop of female stars — and Mr. Daniel Day-Lewis — is a cinematic wonderment of dancing, singing and amazing costumes.

Nicole Kidman, Sophia Loren, Penelope Cruz and Kate Hudson are just a few of the nine femme fatales capturing the heart of famous film director Guido Contini (as played by Daniel Day-Lewis), in this film by Rob Marshall (Chicago).

Sure, their musical numbers are show-stoppers, but we’re particularly impressed by the costumes (created by Colleen Atwood) and are sharing our inspirations with you. Read on for our Nine-inspired stylish picks »

CONTEMPORARY CONTEMPORARY
Mary Frances
“Divine” Evening Bag
$185, Dillards.com
Cesare Paciotti
Black Suede Applique Pump
$708, Couture.zappos.com
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STRAIGHT-SOFT STRAIGHT
Theory
Bretta Poet Tux Jacket
$385, Piperlime.com
BCBG
Emerald Tiered Cocktail Dress
$268, bcbg.com
Spanx
Control Top Back Seam Pattern Pantyhose
$28, Barenecessities.com
D&G
Fake Lace Balconet Bra ($85) & Briefs ($55)
Neimanmarcus.com

Blizzard Gear

If you live on the Eastern seaboard, you surely experienced this weekend’s snowstorm with record levels of snowfalls from Philadelphia to the Carolinas.

Here are a few cozy items that will keep you toasty warm this winter:

Gap - Marled Cable Knit Beanie, $24.50 & Suede Gloves, $29.50

Juicy Couture - Bracelet Faux Fur Jacket, $398

Lands’ End - FeelGood Yarn Fringe Scarf, $29.63

J. Crew - Toscana Shearling Earmuffs, $98

These also make great stocking stuffers!  Keep warm!!

Holiday Jewelry

Festive Pieces by Style

Be it amethysts, diamonds or pearls, fake or faux, platinum or gold, earrings or neck adornments, there are countless ways to get festive with jewelry this holiday season. With so many choices and styles abound, almost anything goes, though the key to getting the jeweled look right is to avoid wearing it all at once.

One key trend is layering so take stock of what you have and pick up pieces that will go with your existing collection. Similarly, mixing metals is no longer a faux pas, though we suggest keeping the styles the same. (If you’re wearing antique gold, steer clear of pairing the piece with something modern and silver.)

Go ahead and break the rules but have some common sense: you want to look adorned, not overdone. These gorgeous gems are festive and fun so read on for our dazzling picks.

FASHION FORWARD
Malene Birger
Mondi Embellished Felt Necklace
$265, Net-a-porter.com
Fallon
Extra Long Wild at Heart Rhinestone Earrings
$185, Barneys.com
CONTEMPORARY
Anthropologie
Corvus Earrings
$38, Anthropologie.com
Ippolita
Rose Mini Abracadabra Bangle
$1,095, Neimanmarcus.com
CLASSIC
Kate Spade
Single Strand Necklace with Bow
$195, Piperlime.com
Monica Vinader
Leo Wire Amethyst Earrings
$155, Net-a-porter.com

Holiday Dresses

For Every Body Shape and Occasion

With cocktail parties, holiday fetes, and an endless stream of seasonal mingling upon us, it’s only natural to keep reaching for a dress that does it all. But when the LBD (little black dress) just won’t do, opt for something more festive to celebrate the season.

With different body types in mind, we looked for classic styles and silhouettes that work for different shapes, be it curvy or straight.

And with versatility a priority, we sought after dresses that can be dressed up or down, depending on the formality of the occasion, and ones that are trans-seasonal to boot. Read on for our choice picks.

CURVY
Donna Ricco
Strapless Taffeta Bubble Dress
$168, Nordstrom.com
CURVY STRAIGHT-SOFT
DVF
Navy Matte Jersey Davilla Dress
$398, DVF.com
Milly
Georgia Strapless Dress in Melon
$365, Cusp.com
STRAIGHT-SOFT STRAIGHT
New York & Company
Fluent Blue Abstract Print Dress
$41.96, NYandcompany.com
Calvin Klein
Stripe Lace Sheath Dress
$168, Nordstrom.com
SOFT-STRAIGHT SOFT-STRAIGHT
J. Crew
Rosebud Wool Ribbon Ravine Dress
$119, Jcrew.com
DVF
Deluma Dress in Silver Sequins
$795, DVF.com

More Holiday Gift Ideas

Shopping Guide

No matter how great we are at shopping, holiday help is always welcome. In our attempt to cover the bases for nearly everyone on your list, we scoured through on and off-line stores for gifts sure to please even the pickiest recipient.

Be it the hostess who has everything or the shoe lover who couldn’t fit another pair in her closet, our gift guide has it covered. And as this week marks the start of holiday shopping, with Black Friday a not-so-distant memory, it’s time to make the list of those who have been nice all year and extend a little goodwill towards those naughty few. Check out our picks for all those near and dear to you.

for the ETERNAL PREPSTER for the TRADITIONALIST
Dempsey & Carroll
Bamboo Border Limited-Edition Stationery
$65, Dempseyandcarroll.com
Simon Pearce
Hand Blown Glass Pear Ornament
$35, Simonpearce.com
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for the DOMESTIC DIVA for the SHOE HOUND
Bed Head
Green/Cream Pear Tree Sateen Pajamas
$138, Bedheadpjs.com
Footzyrolls
Everyday Ballet Flats
$25, Footzyrolls.com
for the HIP HOSTESS for the GOURMAND
Jonathan Adler
Hydra Pitcher
$98, Jonathanadler.com
Food Network
Giada’s Italian Essentials
$44.95, Foodnetworkstore.com
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