blue on blue

Mixing unexpected colors have become quite mainstream this year. Colorblocking has forced the minimalist neutrals seem like a bore. So how about monochromatic minimalist color? I was reminded over the weekend, by one of the most creatively fashionable girls I know, how bold and minimal are always a great alternative. Take a look at how pairing a similar color dress and necklace can make a vibrant statement as well.

Dress: Anthropologie

Necklace: Kate Spade

Sandals: Via Spiga

Watch: Casio

gold + shiny

I've just realized that I have an innate attraction to shiny gold things- must be the desi girl in me! My three new favorites of the moment, in the shiny gold category:

the gold sandal

Zara Ankle Strap Sandal

the gold watch 
Michael Kors 'Reese' Chronograph 

ombre to dye for

It tends to happen to most of us as spring and summer approach... we start feeling a bit blah about our hairstyles. Rather than doing something drastic like chopping off inches (again), I am entertaining the thought of playing with color. Not just a color, but the gradient shades of colors- the dip-dye effect of ombre hair. A few celebrity inspirations:

Rachel Bilson

Whitney Port

Giuliana Rancic

Until I get myself (and my wallet) to commit to this hair trend, I am fine with flaunting my ombre fashion. A few fashion parade inspirations:

ombre looks by fashionparadegirl (via polyvore)

Discover ombre fashion!

hats on!

Not too long ago, I returned back from a sun-filled trip to Cancun, and I am still trying to adjust to the rainy, not-at-all-warm weather back home. Aside from reminiscing about the fruity drinks next to the sounds of the ocean waves, I still stare at my everyday vacay compadre- my black floppy sun hat.

Not only did I get my sun protection (refer back to the "saving face" post, if you will), but I completed my beach style too (but, of course!). And, here are few floppy hat finds for you to consider when taking your beach vacay this summer:

1. nixon
2. kate spade
3. forever 21
4. asos
5. laundry by shell segal

tangy lips

I've always been a fan of bold lip color. Pigmented shades of pink and fuchsia, and of course a classic red lipstick, seem to continuouly stay on top of my cosmetic drawer. And, now with all the color craze about Pantone's very tangy color of the year; Tangerine Tango... reddish-orange colored lips are surfing my mind. So, I went on a hunt for the just the right shade of orange lipstick.

color testing on my hand

Bobbi Brown

color: atomic orange

The ultimate bright orange. Only wear this if you have traffic stopping confidence. 

It must be popular since the inventory was wiped out.

M.A.C.

colors: morange, so chaud

Known for their high pigmented costume make-up, you can't go wrong with a bold look by M.A.C. 

So, I naturally found two shades that were equally as fiery.

Trish McEvoy

color: vibrant coral

As the name suggests, this color is more of a coral than an orange. 

However, the vibrant aspect of it can classify it as a bright tangy shade. 

YSL

color: rouge volupte orange shiver #14

Radiant and glamorous... both the color and the price tag. 

If you like to splurge and feel fancy, this would be it.

What are some of your favorite finds?

the outdoor in

Fashion and home decor have always had a direct relationship when it comes to color and trends.  For the last several years, I have been naturally (no pun intended) drawn to earth tones for my home furnishing style. Dominating neutral tones of green, brown, with black and white serve as the foundation for my everyday living space as well as my closet. But, now with all this rage about color, I have whole heartedly embraced brights and bolds to take a step into my world of decor and dress up. Here are some trends to help adapt color while keeping that oh-so-comfort of the nature inspired.

bohemian

Incorporate color with nature-esque prints. 

Crate and Barrel: placemats, bread basket, silverware
Pottery Barn: mug, napkins, sugar pot
Target: plate
Home Goods: bowl

Nordstrom: tanktop, blouse (B.P.)
Bloomingdales: linen pants (Guess)

nautical

Nature doesn't always mean the wilderness. Think water, vacation, and yacht.

Pottery Barn: pillow covers 

Forever 21: sweater
Marc Jacobs: handbag

floral

Flowers make the world a prettier place. 

A colorful medley of the outdoors- courtesy of my better half!

Nordstrom: blouse (T.B.D.)
Kate Spade: handbag

one of the guys

one of the guys by fashionparadegirl featuring h&m jackets

As if towels and pillowcases weren't enough to label as his and her. Time to start labeling your wardrobe! In the last few months, menswear inspired women's clothing has been quite the buzz. Here's a round up of the top 5 guy style items (on ladies, that is) I have repeatedly spotted all over town:

1. motorcycle jacket- Pairing a moto jacket with a feminine top is the way to go.
spotted: H&M, Banana Republic

2. plaid shirt- Plaid seems to be one of those timeless trends that doesn't ever completely go away.
spotted: Old Navy, J. Crew

3. oversized watch- I currently have a personal obsession for this!
spotted: Michele, Michael Kors, Nixon

4. loafers- Think of your classic Hugh Hefner smoking flats. Yep- those are cool.
spotted: Steve Madden, Sam Edelman

5. pinstripe trousers- Chic, tailored and confident. A guy's girl for sure.
spotted: J. Crew, BCBGeneration

Love my chucks!