Editor's Choice: Top Street Style Looks from New York Fashion Week 2015

Some of the amazing street style outfits of 2015 Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, NYC

New York Fashion Week 2015 started off with sunshine, a gust of wind, clouds and then snow. Just like the fashion scene today. A mixed bag of textures and beauty. Here are some of my favorite street style looks from Lincoln Center Plaza.

So love this suede over the knee boots which were EVERYWHERE.

Neko Zhang in a lovely red coat & veiled hat. Instagram: nekoislove

Impeccably done patterned fur & fox fur hat. Suede over the knee boots!

Tan tunic with black leather side panels by designer Donna Degnan, NYC

NY Fashion Week Style-Edgy with a surprise pop of pink.

Loved the luxe faux fur coat and floppy hat with this outfit.

White faux fur with red stripes on the bottom. Simply works.

Crowds leaving the fashion show at the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week building.

To me, the most interesting styles were on the street. Designers showing here at the MB Fashion Week Theatre and Salon today were: BCBG Max Azria, Costello Tagliapietra, Tadashi Shoji and Todd Snyder. Downtown, Timo Weiland's show was at Pier 59 Studios, 59 Chelsea Piers #2. Also Honor showed at Artbeam, 540 W. 21st. This fall-winter FW2015-16, look for high-heeled over the knee boots in suede. Faux and real fur (i.e. fox a la Joseph Altuzarra) isn't going anywhere anytime soon. Fur trooper hats are making a comeback, (did they ever leave?)

My tunic and white blouse are both by New York designer, Donna Degnan and made in NYC. Despite the temperature drop and snow flurries, I was incredibly warm and happy outdoors. The pockets and full lining and zip front are also a major plus!

Modeling at the Fashion Week afterparty-Photo by Andrew Fitzsimons

Makeup-Kett Cosmetics Hydro Foundation
Micheal Kors Black Leather Tassel Knox Bag - Mine
Oscar de la Renta Silk Scarf - Mine
Jewelry by Tiffany & Co.
Special thanks to FashionXTech and the sponsors for furnishing transportation to the shows.

SS2015 Work and Travelwear: Nora Gardner NYC, Oscar de la Renta, Pineda Covalin and SofiaZ Accessorized

Travel essentials for the jet-set! Nora Gardner Gabrielle Dress. Mulholland Leather Bag, SofiaZ Leather Pumps

NYC SS2015 Fashion is all about the accessories and metamorphosing your outfit selections to go from work to travel as the two are often one in the same. Most of us either commute or are required to travel from time to time for our job. Even so, you're going to have time for some FUN so let's plan for that too. This is how we're doing it this spring!

A Working Wardrobe
We all have that favorite power-suit that we always wear for presentations and meetings.  This spring you might want to stand out a little and breathe some fresh life into your everyday work wear with: a bold, colorful dress, silk scarf, bright bag and fashionable shoes.

Large Leather Bag, Pineda Covalin Silk Scarf, SofiaZ Simone Navy Pumps

Your New "Briefcase"! 
If you are still using a laptop bag or open tote for your trip to the office consider an over-sized, zippered leather bag.
This is so much more chic and can also be used as extra on board luggage for an overnight trip. Make sure it has a full zipper to keep everything inside safe. Mine also has a little lock on the flap. Look for one that has metal feet and lots of organizing pockets for your cell, pens, business cards and more. The leather on my Mulholland is beautiful but VERY tough. I don't baby it and it goes everywhere in style with a feminine touch. Tie a silk scarf on the handle and you're good to go!

Your New Briefcase! Try an over-sized leather bag in a bright color.

Fashion Designer Nora Gardner, NYC
This spring, take a look at what NYC Fashion Designer, Nora Gardner has going on. Her collection easily goes from the board room to boarding your plane. Her clothing is made in NYC and she really understands what professional women need from our clothes. In the lead photo I'm wearing her most popular style, the Gabrielle in Fuchsia with Simone Leather Pumps by designer Usha Patel of SofiaZ. Silk Scarf by Pineda Covalin - Mexico. 

Gabrielle in Fuchsia, Simone Leather Pumps

The Gabrielle Dress
So ready for spring in this gorgeous shade of fuchsia. The slits at the elbow length sleeves are genius as are the very deep yet invisible pockets.  Full zipper in the back gives the dress an incredible fit and easy access. Just enough stretch to keep it interesting. Watch how I switch it up a bit by adding a necklace and a different silk scarf!

Gold and Stone necklace by Jaimie Nicole

Here's the 411 on The Gabrielle from Nora Gardner's Website:

Description

Simply put, Gabrielle is your new best friend. Machine washable? Check. Sleeves and pockets? Check. Cute elbow vents that add style and personality and allow your arms to move around easily? Check. A flattering waistline and roomy hips? Check. Luxurious stretch fabric? Check. Need we say more?

Fully lined, zipper at back, hook-and-eye-closure

Runs true to size. Find a sizing chart here.

Model is 5'8" wearing a Size 2

Care: Machine was cold, line dry

Content: Shell 72% Polyester, 24% Rayon, 4% Spandex; Lining 100% Polyester

Proudly made in NYC

Gabrielle Dress with Oscar de la Renta Silk Scarf

Simone Leather Pumps in Navy by SofiaZ
Designer Usha Patel created her line of beautiful high fashion leather shoes with real women in mind. 
These Simone Pumps are easily a 5 inch heel but I was very comfortable wearing them. Nicely balanced and padded in all the right areas, especially the ball area of the foot. The leather is gorgeous and both the soles and heels have grip. See SofiaZ's Spring/Summer Shoe Collection online.

Travel Time - Pack You Bag!
As I mentioned before, investing in a leather bag like this gives you more than a briefcase. It's like having an extra piece of luggage when you fly or hop a train. I like to keep everything close at hand. Still, even if I'm only boarding the train into the city for the day, there are certain things that go with me everywhere as you never know if you will need to spend an unexpected night away from home. 
So this is my Work Survival Kit: 
Mason Pearson Comb, Silk & Cotton Travel Sheets, Mini Emergency Kit, Croc Leather Organizer Wallet, (doubles as an evening clutch), Hand Sanitizer, Phone/Mobile Device Re-charger.

Travel light but travel right!

Pack Some Play Things Too
Lole's Soho Shop has some lovely pieces this SS2015 in the way of Travelwear.  While Lole is primarily known for their active-wear, the Leena Dress (shown below blue), packs easily and resists wrinkling. It is a faux wrap dress and the V-neck details are lovely. Dress it up or down. See Lole's SS2015 Travel Wear Collection online at LoleWomen.com

Leena Faux Wrap Dress in Blue

Packing Tips: Roll everything up to optimize space and keep things from wrinkling. I like to use a steamer at home to take the wrinkles out. Use it before you pack the clothes and you'll be pleased once you arrive at your hotel.

Leena Travel Dresses by Lole. Silk Scarf by Oscar de la Renta.

Mulholland Leather Bag-Mine
Ray Ban Wayfarer Sunglasses-Mine
Silk Scarves-Mine
Gabrielle Dress c/o Nora Gardner NYC
Leena Dresses c/o Lole
Simone Pumps  c/o SofiaZ

New Year's Eve in Altuzarra's Red Wrap Dress, Sam and Libby Over the Knee Boots

Red Wrap Dress by Joseph Altuzarra, Suede Boots by Sam & Libby

New Year's Eve in NYC in the area of Times Square is often called the biggest controlled riot on earth! I'm often in that area and there as always a current of pure electricity in the air. Whether you plan to join the crowd there to ring in the New Year or enjoy a toast at home with friends, you can look sensational doing it. Here are some style tips from top fashion designer, Joseph Altuzarra and shoe makers, Sam & Libby.

Lady in Red
Studies have shown that men are more attracted to women wearing the color red. Why not use that little factoid to your advantage?  Stop being a wall flower and take center stage by wearing: a red cap, scarf, top or go all the way in a RED DRESS!

Altuzarra Red Wrap Dress

Joseph Altuzarra's Red Wrap Dress
I picked up this dress from Altuzarra's Fall 2014 Capsule Collection for Target. If you look at his Fall 2014 runway show, you will see a similar but more complicated dress design in WHITE. As you can see, the fabric has a bit of sheen which makes you look somewhat like a gift wrapped present. There you go! This dress has a high empire waist and the included fringed belt is poetry in motion when you walk. Talk about fringe benefits.

All wrapped up...like a present.

This dress has a full zippered back

This dress has a full zipper in the back so it helps getting into it. The only thing I have an issue with is the wrap situation at the bust line. It will flop open on you so I would recommend putting a pin or jewelry there. Remember, Altuzarra is especially known for his high skirt slits! So this is what it looks like when you sit down.

Altuzarra Wrap Dress seated.

I am wearing Hanes Silk Reflections in Barely Black hosiery here but you can go with a bit more opacity for extra coverage. The back of the dress falls below the knee and hits the top of my boots. All things considered, I'm glad I got in on his capsule collection this season as this dress is a classic and very well made to dance the night away!

Sam & Libby Over the Knee Suede Boots
I wanted to contrast the shimmery sheen of the dress with the soft matte texture found with these Sam & Libby Boots. These are easily 5 inch heels and the rim of the sole is done in gold. The back has laces with gold grommets and tassel accents with a small zipper on the inside seem. This gives them a comfortable fit around the ankles.

Back Details on the Sam & Libby Boots

The back cuff of the boot is open which makes them easy to walk in. I've had a pair of thigh-high leather boots before and it was almost impossible to bend your knees in them! Not so with these. They fit amazingly for me as I wore them to lunch at Ruby Tuesday's. These are quality boots from Sam & Libby who are also known for their dress shoes.

Altuzarra dress and Sam & Libby boots.

JLo Tortoise Framed Rx Sunglasses-Mine
Dress & Boots-Mine

NYC Fashion Designers: Donna Degnan, Michael Kors and Joseph Altuzarra Holiday Outfit Ideas

Tis the season to be FABULOUS! NYC's top fashion designers show you how.

Christmas in New York is like no other place in the world. The smell of hot chestnuts roasting on the street corners to the Macy's Herald Square holiday windows, the city has it's own unique vibe. Seventh Avenue in Midtown is also known as Fashion Avenue and I've had the pleasure of meeting some of the top designers who made their start there such as Nichole Miller and Vera Wang.

This holiday look is based on neutral colors and tones with a minimum of flashy accents. Clean lines with a bit of texture and interest in the bag and boots makes it perfect for travel, shopping and enjoying the season. Here is what I am wearing:

Just in: Aaliyah Zip Front Tunic Vest & Adele Shirt by Donna Degnan

Aaliyah Zip Front Tunic Vest by Donna Degnan
This on trend long ponte knit vest is made in NYC by fashion designer Donna Degnan. This is a three season piece and there are SO many ways to wear it. Colder weather means layering a turtleneck and some opaque leggings underneath. Oh yes, Donna does those as well! Shown here in the color Vicuna, the side panels are 100% leather and the tunic is fully lined. The fabric portion of the tunic vest is has a bit of stretch and so is quite comfortable to wear. I really like the seam front pockets which makes this piece a travel-worthy companion. It resists wrinkles and packs well too. Extremely well made garment from top to bottom.

Adele Stretch Cotton Hi Lo Shirt by Donna Degnan

Adele Stretch Cotton Hi-Lo Shirt
I wear a size 6 in Ralph Lauren's women's dress shirts but the Adele fits me like a hand tailored blouse. So comfortable to wear under the Aaliyah Zip Front Tunic. Has just the right amount of stretch as it is a cool cotton-nylon-spandex blend. Made in NYC, it can be machine washed and line dried. Pair it with Donna Degnan's signature leggings or wear under your favorite suit to the office. Everyone NEEDS a white shirt. City chic all in one package! See both these designs and more at DonnaDegnan.com

My Bag: Knox Leather Tassel Hand Bag by Michael Kors

Knox Leather Tassel Hand Bag by Michael Kors
This black leather bag by Michael Kors is soft and supple but sturdy enough to handle the 5th Avenue crowd during rush hour! Yes, this bag can take a beating. Beautiful full grain leather with an inside zippered pouch and side pockets to hold your cell, keys, etc. Has an outside zippered pocket with his gold MK monogrammed emblem and luxurious leather tassel. Has rolled top handles and a adjustable shoulder strap. Extremely well made and just the right size.

MK Knox Leather Tassel Bag

Ankle Boots by Joseph Altuzarra
Ankle Boots like these are everywhere this season but I especially like the gold buckle, reptile texture and lace up details on these. Part of Altuzarra's Fall 2014 capsule collection for Target, I purchased these one half size larger than my usual shoe size due to the pointy toes. They fit great and don't gap too much around my skinny ankles! Easy to get on and off as they have a full sized zipper on the inside seam. Really these are the bomb as you can see and would work great with pants, leggings or a dress. So there you go...from the runway to your walkway...work it!

Ankle Boots by Joseph Altuzarra for Target

Foxie Ivory Knit Cap by Pistil Designs
Topping everything off is my cozy knit cap by Pistil Designs. This is a soft, knitted hat with a super fluffy pom pom on top. The Foxie reminds me of the Tam O' Shanters I used to wear as a child but so much more stylish! Has a metal plate with the Pistil name sewn on. Pretty, soft and warm for those cold snowy winter days. So I guess I can go ahead and dream of a White Christmas? I think so. See all the new Winter 2014-2015 hat and scarf fashions at PistilDesigns.com

Handbag and Ankle Boots-Mine
JLo Tortoise Shell Rx Sunglasses-Mine
Makeup by: Kett Cosmetics, Estee Lauder Pure Color Envy Lipstick in Envious
Clothing and Accessories c/o Donna Degnan and Pistil Designs respectively.

Editor's Choice: The BEST Summer Beach Bags and Accessories

Beach and Pool time just got cooler. Philip Stein Tote & Pistil Fedora

These are some of my favorite summer totes, beach bags and accessories for sun and sand! Trending now but will remain true classics you can call on year after year.

Quirky Mesh Bottomed Beach Tote and Matching Clutch

Quirky? Maybe. However the Shake Sand Sifting Beach Bag has a mesh bottom and flap to let the sand out. Pretty close to genius in my book but did you catch the little matching clutch? It has the same set up so no sandstorm there either. Roomy and well thought out, it has a zippered inner pouch and straps with just the right drop length. Coated canvas fabric in a sand beige, it's perfect for the beach blanket. See them at Quirky.com

Matched up! Quirky Shake Beach Tote & Clutch

Woven Bag with Pewter Sand Dollar by Newport Style

I saw lots of these handbags and totes while on vacation on Nantucket Island. Beautifully handwoven of natural ata grass, this bag is made for resort living with a large black grosgrain ribbon and pewter dipped sand dollar on the front. See more at NewportStyle.net

Handwoven Ata Grass Bag

Bamboo Handled Woven Bag from Hawaii
My brother purchased this for me while shopping on the Island of Maui. It's just the right size for your keys, wallet and cell but pretty enough for lunch at the Tiki Bar. Has a zippered closure and little pouch within.

Bamboo Handled Woven Bag from Maui & Mia Flower Halo

Beachy Accessories
Here are some fun accents to go with your summer wear. While I might not wear this in the water, the Mia Flower Halo has a pure Polynesian flavor going for it. When the stars come out...it lights up! Perfect for the club after a day on the beach. See them is various colors at MiaBeauty.com

Light and airy. Woven straw Fedora by Pistil Designs

Pistil Fedora
You definitely need sun protection on the shore. Do it in style with this sweet woven straw Fedora by Pistil Designs. Has a bright, cloth headband and easy fits larger heads of hair. By PistilDesigns.com


 

Bracelet that doubles as a necklace and visa - versa

Vanesa Farfan Jewelry
This Leather and Silver Bracelet/Necklace from Vanesa Farfan is very versatile and should be a definite inclusion in your resort bag. Made with fine quality leather and silver plated charms, it can be worn everyday but still look great for cocktails. See more jewelry designs from VanesaFarfan.com

Leather & Silver Bracelet/Necklace by Vanesa Farfan

Sailing to Nantucket from Cape Cod.

Totes and Jewelry c/o Philip Stein, Quirky and Vanesa Farfan respectively.

Catherine Wingate Golf Apparel and Philip Stein Horizon Bracelet with Tote

 

Catherine Wingate of CA's fine golf apparel

Knob Hill Golf Club, Manalapan NJ  Last month we stayed at Crystal Springs Resort & Golf Club in the mountains of Northern New Jersey. The first hole was right by our balcony terrace with night time golf being played with LED lights!  Golf is a sport that is attracting a lot of women, thanks to top players on the LPGA Tour like Michelle Wei, Stacey Lewis, Linda Ko and Lexi Thompson. It stands to reason that our apparel choices are going to be important to keep cool on the green. Since most golf clubs have dress codes, I've found very fashionable golf attire from a new designer, Catherine Wingate of CA.

Catherine Wingate is winner of the 2014 PGA Merchandise Show Award for "Best New Product".  Made in the USA, Catherine Wingate's pieces are very well constructed and conform to even the most elite golf club's dress requirements.

Sleeveless Color Blocked Polo and Pleated Skort

Sleeveless Color Blocked Polo Top in White/Navy is very easy to wash and wear due to the
stain releasing fabric: Micropoly with Lycra
The Fabric is a four-way stretch that contains a quick dry function to pull moisture away from skin and quickly dry. This fabric blocks and absorbs UV-rays to protect skin from dangerous sun damage. This fabric also has long lasting anti-bacterial Features.

Can you find the pockets? Horizon Bracelet by Philip Stein

Pleated Skort in Navy has a definite nautical theme going for it. Easy and breezy to wear, the wide waist band stays put and is very flattering. The pockets are hidden in the pleats. Made of the same fabric as the Polo Top, the Micropoly with Lycra is a dream to wear and color-fast. 

Cool and breezy fabric offers superior sun protection. Sun Visor by Callaway

My Accessories: Tote & Horizon Bracelet in Rose Gold by Philip Stein, Jack Purcell Collection Sunglasses by Converse, Gloves by Giro, Thermal Water Bottle by EcoVessel.

Arriving in style! CW's Zip Front Dress in Navy

Catherine Wingate's Chic and elegant Zip Front Dress in Navy also has built in shorts plus two slit pockets at the hips. Micropoly with Lycra blend, the fabric is cool while offering sun protection. We found these pieces to perform well in the sun while allowing us to look very feminine and chic! Visit Catherine Wingate online for more lovely selections at CatherineWingate.com

Zip Front Dress with built in shorts has slit pockets.

Sunglasses from the NEW Converse All Star line

See you on the green!

Our very special thanks to Knob Hill Golf Club and their amazing Pro Shop for accommodating us for the day! Visit them online at KnobHillGC.com

Clothing c/o Catherine Wingate, CA
Tote & Bracelet c/o Philip Stein
Sunglasses c/o Converse