Vacation in Style... Is there any other way?!

Beyonce vacationing in style!
Left to right: Geometric Print Kaftan Dress by Supertrash $205.13, www.asos.com; Flirt Kaftan, $71.20, www.chicos.com; Cheesecloth Embroidered, $85.50, French Connection; Bold Flower Paradise Poncho, $63.20, www.chicos.com

Left to right: V Neck Kaftan Cover Up, $40, www.topshop.com; Aurora silk kaftan by Emamo, $650, www.net-a-porter.com; Marlin Print Kaftan, $110, www.monsoon.co.uk; Davina Kaftan, $100, www.monsoon.co.uk

Planning a trip away soon and have no idea what to wear? No problem. Take a leaf out of Beyonce's holiday wardrobe and pack your suitcase full of vibrant kaftans and tunics for lazy days on the beach. Truth be told you don't even need to be vacationing on an island to copy this look. Wear these tops with shorts, skinny jeans or flowing linen pants for instant "sunshine chic."

Third Act: Shake Your Booty

Jazmine Sullivan attends the 51st Annual GRAMMY Awards Style Studio held at the Smashbox Studios on February 4, 2009 in Los Angeles, California.

1. Botkier Rosa, $595, www.piperlime.com; 2. Cybul in Black, $129.95, www.stevemadden.com; 3. Hunny, $127.96, www.stevemadden.com; 4. Manhunt, $169.99, www.ninewest.com; 5. Janie Boot, $319.99, www.usa.frenchconnection.com; 6. Treto, $180, www.aldoshoes.com; 7. Leatherette Zipper High Heel Boot, $30.50, www.gojane.com; 8. Link Boot, $46.90, www.alloy.com

Have you "booted" up yet? If not, you'd better hurry, the weather has taken a nasty turn for the worst. Safely tucked away until next season are my ballet flats and sandals. Out have come my uggs, sneakers and boots. I'd like to think that I'm ready for the worst of it but I do, however, need a leather, flat boot to wear with my sweater dresses and skinny jeans. I've opted for Steve Madden's slouch "Cybul" boot (pictured above).

It's true. A girl can never have too many heels, but she must also keep a trusty pair of flats by her side. If you just can't do without a heel they're plenty of low/kitten-heeled boots in stores such as Aldo and online at www.piperlime.com.

Shine. Shimmer. Sparkle.

Serena Williams attends the "Whip It" Los Angeles Premiere held at Grauman's Chinese Theatre Hollywood, California on 29.09.09

Left to right: Sequin glitterglass tank, $495, www.jcrew.com; Sequins Emma Top by Nili Lotan, by $495, www.bloomingdales.com; Sequin Embellished Vest, $95.93, www.asos.com; Sequin & Beaded Tank by Alice + Olivia (Sizes 0 - 14), $396, www.neimanmarcus.com

Left to right: Racerback Tank by Gryphon, $345, www.shoplesnouvelles.com; Rose Sequin Tank, $19.90, www.charlotterusse.com; Embellished Racerback Tank, $24, www.ardenb.com; Allover Sequin Tunic, $26.50, www.wetseal.com

Serena Williams kept things classic and clean on the red carpet of the "Whip It" premiere. Wearing a simple black blazer and matching cropped pants, Serena looked effortlessly chic. To keep the outfit from looking too "day" she added a little sparkle in the form of a racerback tank by Gryphon. If you want to achieve this look you don't have to hand over $345. Wetseal, Forever 21, Charlotte Russe and Arden B all have affordable sequin tops. Finish the outfit with vertigo heels, a metallic clutch and chandelier earrings.

Shoppers Delight!

Solange Knowles on a recent trip to Barcelona

Left to right: ASOS Rose Print Full Skirt, $46.34, www.asos.com; Bold Floral Pleated Skirt, $17.80, www.forever21.com; Diesel Hibiscus Print Wrap Mini Skirt, $107.84, www.asos.com; Kimchi Blue Lady Bug Skirt, $58, www.urbanoutfitters.com
Left to right: Blurred Pansy Print Egg Skirt, $70, www.topshop.com; Short Floral Skirt by See by Chloe, $332.50, www.shopbop.com; Pleated Flip Skirt, $16.90, www.wetseal.com; Floral Print Bubble Skirt, $40 approx., www.missselfridge.co.uk

Summer is here and it's the only time of year when women over the age of 18 can get away with wearing a mini-skirt. Don't be conventional and wear just denim. Floral prints are in and oh-so-pretty. Take a cue from Solange Knowles (pictured above). She's paired a simple, white wife-beater with a playful, bright skirt to create summer's ultimate laid back 'n' chic look. Gladiator sandals and the perfect pedicure will complete the look.

See my related post on Twitter! - www.twitter.com/ILIKEHERSTYLE

Have a Little Faith

Items from Faith 21's new line

Apparently 60% of women 18 or over are wearing size 12-plus, yet most fashion stores only stock items up to a size 12/14 max. With "plus size" fashion being an under served yet highly in-demand market, Forever 21 is stepping up to the plate and launching their new line called Faith 21 for women size 12 and over. As a side note I can't understand why being a size 12 is considered "plus size". I'm 5"9 and a size 8/10 and I'm a 'large' in Forever 21!! And let's hope the quality of this new line is a little better. I'd like to be able to put their clothes in the washing machine without fear of them disintegrating.

Anyway, this new line will feature items similar to other Forever 21 clothing lines, including flirty dresses, trendy tops, skirts, jeans and basics such as T-shirts, camisoles, tanks and leggings (see above pics for a sample). The target customer is age 15 to 29. Prices will range from $3.80 to $29.80. Look out for the launch later this month. The line will be available in some of the chain’s new or mall locations, but it will not be stocked at the Michigan Avenue flagship store, at least not immediately.

Keep it Under Wraps!

Meagan Good leaving Good Morning New York earlier this week.

Left to right: Black Fishbone Jumper by Manoush, $155.25, www.my-wardrobe.com; Charlene Sweater Coat, $59.50, www.delias.com; Shawl Collar Cardigans, $35, www.oldnavy.com; Lofty Knit Wrap, $129.99, www.frenchconnection.com

Left to right: Cable shrug cardigan by Vince, $295, www.net-a-porter.com; Knitted Chunky Jumper, $40, www.topshop.com; Mindi Hooded Sweater Cardigan, $27.80, www.forever21.com; Knitted Poncho, $90, www.topshop.com

Winter can be oh so depressing but a cute chunky knit can put a skip in your step. If you don't believe me check out Meagan Good above, her sweater dress has put some zing in her stride. Take a cue from her and find a stylish knit to cover up in this season. French Connection's web site has some really cute selections.

Say It Loud, Wear It Proud

Top: Star Logo Tunic, $62; Right On, $62; Star Logo Tank, $62; Guitar Muscle Tee, $29 all available at www.blackgirlsrockinc.com/BGR_STORE.html
Bottom: Grace Jones, $62; BGR Logo Tee, $29; Afro Tee, $62; Guitar Tee, $29 all available at www.blackgirlsrockinc.com/BGR_STORE.html

Check Yourself!

Kelly Rowland and Rihanna make appearances in a winning combo of plaid/checked shirts and dark jeans.

Left to right: Midwest Plaid Shirt , $22.90, www.forever21.com; Tartan Silk Blouse, $34.80, www.forever21.com; Victoria Check Shirt, $79.99, www.fcusbuymail.com; Plaid Vest, $18.99, www.charlotte-russe.com

Left to right: Checker Plaid Shirt, $19.80, www.forever21.com; 3/4 Sleeve Check Shirt, $30, www.topshop.com; Plaid 3/4-sleeved ruffle-front top, $44, www.gap.com; Ruffle Front Shirt by Ivy, www.intermixonline.com

Lumberjacks are the last people you'd expect a fashionista to turn to for style inspiration but surprisingly a plaid/check shirt paired with jeans is a winning combination. Whilst some shirts in stores right now look like they came straight off a lumbrjack's back, others include feminine details like a nipped in waist, bows and frills. Whether you stay true to the shirt's origin or go with the updated interpretation, always, always wear with a pair of dark, indigo jeans. See the ladies above for instant inspiration.

Wear You Colored Jeans With...

Yellow Jacket: Cropped Jacket by Bi La Li, $675, www.net-a-porter.com; Top: Metallic Filigree Flutter, $17.80, www.forever21.com; Bracelet: Satin Wrapped Bangles Set of 3, $14.99, www.urbanoutfitters.com; Graphic Tee: Metallic Filigree Flutter, $17.80, www.forever21.com; Clutch: Danni Pomegranate Clutch, $36, www.amiciaccessories.com; Belt: Priscilla Patent Belt, $7.80, www.forever21.com; Earrings: Graffiti Earrings, $10, www.oohboutique.com; Pumps: Orizaba, $79.98, www.aldoshoes.com

Bargain Hunting at its Best!

I’ll be the first to admit that I hate outlet shopping. Sales at my favorite chain store are exciting. Vintage shopping exhilarating. But outlet shopping I just find exhausting and I rarely get rewarded for my efforts. This all changed Memorial weekend however as my mom dragged me into our local Marshalls. Typically, I avoid this particular store like the plague because the clothes are literally thrown anywhere and the checkout lines are RIDICULOUS! So you can imagine my glee when I found dresses by DKNY, Laundry by Shelli Segal/Design and London Times all priced at a quarter or less of their original prices. I spent close to $200 but I walked out of the store with 4 designer dresses! I have a new found respect for women who spend hours trawling through rails of disorganized clothing in the search for that one precious jewel (be warned that it can become addictive). I encourage all of you still in doubt to try and outlet store at least once. Need more encouragement? The dress pictured is still selling for $395 at Bloomingdales. I bought it for $60 this weekend. I am such a believer!

Are your feet ready for summer?

Stop hiding your feet in those pumps – get pedicured up!
Top: Casting, $79.95, www.stevemadden.com; Lansing, $30, www.aldoshoes.com; Sirprise, $89.95, www.stevemadden.com
Middle: Trinangle Sandal, $34, www.urbanoutfitters.com; Croww, $79.95, www.stevemadden.com; Le Petit Sperone, $60, www.piperlime.com
Bottom: Hendrix, $90, www.dune.co.uk; Volatile Cassie Thong Sandal, $38.95, www.endless.com; Belle by Sigerson Morrison, $225, www.piperlime.com

Shoe shopping is one of life’s little pleasures, but I delightful day in the shoe department of Saks can quickly turn into a nightmare if your feet aren’t perfectly polished when the sales clerk tries to help you slip on those Louboutins. Avoid the potential embarrassment and get your toes Manolo ready today. You don’t have to spend a fortune at a spa. In fact, I prefer creating my own pedicure at home - I’m too ticklish for someone else to handle my toes! Try Tweezerman’s deluxe pedicure set available at Sephora or their more modest version for just $14.99 at Target. After you’ve spoiled yourself, pick the perfect color* to match your sandals and away you go!

*All nail colors by Nars Cosmetics. Click here for their regular selection and here for their vintage line.

Reach New Heights

Liya Kebede at a recent event in New York City.

Top: Dessire, $149.95, www.stevemadden.com; Whipped, $59.99, www.ninewest.com; Zanna, $49.99, www.bakersshoes.com
Middle: Charles by Charles David Luau Wedge, $114.95, www.endless.com; Matosinhos, $295, www.aldoshoes.com; Slingback cut-out wedge, $22.99, www.gojane.com
Bottom: Champyun, $79.95, www.stevemadden.com; Chain Sculptured Wedges by Alberta Ferretti, 4895, www.net-a-porter.com; Levett, $159, www.maxstudio.com

A sping/summer wardrobe must-have is a sturdy and versatile pair of wedges. I usually play it safe and get classic wedges or espadrilles that I can wear season-after-season but this year I may indulge in an edgier pair. Cut-out heels and curvy soles are what’s hot in the streets but if you don’t want to go too new age, pick a wedge with a crazy heel and more traditional straps. This staple shoe is taking a few risks this season. Why not join them?!

Make Mine A Mini!

Selita Ebanks attends a gala celebrating the @Murakami exhibition hosted by Louis Vuitton at The Brooklyn Museum, Thursday, April 3, 2008 in New York.

Top: Crystal embellished clutch, $973, www.net-a-porter.com; Hex Gold Bag, $44, www.monsoon.co.uk; Rafe New York Hayden, $295, www.piperlime.com
Middle: Tod's Boomerang Pochette, $1250, www.eluxury.com; John Lewis Black Patent Clutch, $50, www.johnlewis.com; Bunny Metallic Rosette Mini Bag by Loeffler Randall, $242, www.shopbop.com
Bottom: Cecile satin clutch by Jimmy Choo, $1795, www.net-a-porter.com; Zsa Zsa Beaded Bag, $56, www.accessorize.co.uk; Sparkle Box Clutch Ba, $40, www.oli.co.uk

Downsizing doesn’t always have to be a bad thing. This season travel light with vintage-inspired mini clutches that are bound to be the talk of any party. Let’s face it, all a girl really needs is her lips gloss, keys, cell phone and credit card and she’s set for the night. All the mini delights above can hold your essentials comfortably and won’t hinder your moves on the dance floor – nothing worse than trying to do the electric slide with a big ol' handbag! Selita’s jeweled box clutch inspired this post. I couldn’t find the exact one but my picks are equally as elegant.

Get Skirty...

Kerry Wahington arrives at the 2008 Film Independent's Spirit Awards held at Santa Monica Beach on February 23, 2008 in Santa Monica, California.

Left to right: Three Tiered Skirt, $22.50, www.wetseal.com; Geo Print Mini Skirt by Marc Jacobs, Approx. $1120, www.brownsfashion.com; Hues Of Hibiscus Skirt, $88, www.freepeople.com; Daisy Cotton Skirt, $22.80, www.forever21.com

Left to right: Kimcji & Blue Scarf Print Pull on Skirt, $58, www.urbanoutfitters.com; Necessary Objects Printed Sateen Skirt, $48, www.shop.nordstrom.com; Mossimo Black Pocketed Skirt, $19.99, www.target.com; Iris Shoots Skirt, $128, www.anthropologie.com

Spring is a'coming and the stars are already dusting off their summer gladrags. If you haven’t started already, now is the time to update your wardrobe for the new season. Key items will be harder to find once the sun comes out of hiding and everyone starts to shop. On your shopping list should be a floral skirt, but forget paisley prints or pastel colors. This spring it's all about bold and bright hues paired with geometric shapes and flowers. Take your cue from Kerry Washington who attended the 2008 Film Independent’s Spirit awards in a stunning blue and green fifties style skirt - perfect for day and evening!

Going Ga Ga for Argyle?!

Porscha Coleman, Russell Simmons’ girlfriend, attending the 8th Annual Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation's Youth Holiday Party on December 11, 2007 in New York City & Christina Milian during the filming of ABC’s family movie “Snowglobe.”

Left to right: Argyle Sweater Vest, $22.80, www.forever21.com; Argyle Babydoll Sweater, www.alloy.com; Argyle Cardigan, $24.80, www.forever21.com; V neck Argyle Sweater, $29.90 , H&M

Left to right: Jones New York Collection Argyle Cowl Sweater (Comes in plus size), $99, http://www.nordstrom.com/; Charter Club Cashmere Argyle Pointelle V-Neck Sweater, $59.99, http://www.macys.com/; AdamPlusEve by Adam Lippes, $177, http://www.bluefly.com/; Argyle Sweater Vest, $22.80, http://www.forever21.com/

Who would have thought fashion would look to golfers for inspiration? Hard to believe huh? But if you browse through the knitwear section of your favorite boutique, you’ll notice a sudden upsurge in argyle, female sweaters. Though you can find plenty of traditional argyle sweaters and cardigans (much like Porscha’s above,) think about trying a new take on the style a la Christina Milian or the two sweaters above by Jones NY and Adam Lippes.

Shake Your Booty Part Deux!

Gabrielle Union shopping at Paige Premium Denim in Los Angeles, December 20, 2007.

1. Novet Slouchy Boots by Qupid, $69.90, www.flyjane.net; 2. Lennon, $110, www.dune.co.uk; 3. Devoted, $119.99, www.stevemadden.com; 4. Wrap It Up Boot, $39.50, www.alloy.com; 5. Dolce & Gabbana Brown Leather 'D' Buckle Tall Boots, $1196, www.bluefly.com; 6. Zari 13101 Boot by www.bronxshoes.com; 7. Oriana Tall Boot, $475, www.colehaan.com; 8. Vagary, $119.99, www.ninewest.com; 9. Elegy, $199, www.ninewest.com; 10. Gadsdena, $200, www.aldoshoes.com

I haven’t had time to post this week. I’m settling into a new job and beginning to look for an apartment but I scraped together a few of my favorite stylish, winter boots online. All are inspired by Gabrielle’s pair spotted on a recent trip shopping in LA. And what is this season’s trend? Buckles. A simple buckle or two can give an ordinary boot some edge.

Note: See “Shake Your Booty” part one here and here.

Creature Comforts

Avoid looking like grandma this winter by picking edgy sweaters as opposed to traditional and boring knitwear. Pick items that show off your neckline as well as flattering your feminine shape with a belt. You could even use a completely different belt than the one that comes with your sweater like a leather obi belt. The good thing about sweaters and cardigans are that they suit everybody and don’t have to be expensive. Add other cute accessories like pendants, chandelier earrings and brooches to make this look extra chic. For another twist buy a knit handbag like the one posted above (Gerard Darel Dublinblush, $399, www.shoprumor.com). This would go perfect with any of the sweaters above.

Left to right: Lianne Sweater Cardigan, $34.80, www.forever21.com; Cowl Neck Sweater by Ciel, $496, www.my-wardribe.com; Seed-Stitch Cardigans in Medium Heather Gray, $36.50, www.oldnavy.com; Plush Tunic Sweater, $10, www.wetseal.com

Left to right: Esprit Cabled Cardigan, $89.50, www.shop.nordstrom.com; Chunky Wrap Cardigan, $44, www.asos.com; Oversize Wrap Sweatercoat, $59, www.victoriassecret.com; Open Knit Hoodie, $128, www.freepeople.com

Coats for Fall: The Parka

Rihanna leaving the Hyatt Hotel on Potsdamer Platz in Berlin, Germany on November 26th, 2007.

Left to right: Embroidered Cotton Coat, $39.90, www.forever21.com; Metal Trim Parka, $110, www.topshop.com; Sheared Parka, $140, www.topshop.com; Madeline, $228, www.abercrombie.com

Left to right: Frost Free Belted Anoraks, $46.80, www.oldnavy.com; Miriam Parka, $69.50, www.delias.com; UO Long Fur Parka, $125, www.urbanoutfitters.com; Anorak Pluming, $169, www.mangoshop.com

Parkas have never been so fashionable. I always used to think these coats were for intense blizzards and hiking trips only, but the parka has become quite stylish. To keep them looking feminine invest in a parka with a belt to define your waist and keep lengths above your knee. Any lower and you might look like your about to embark on an expedition! Team with a chunky knit for the ultimate winter chic look.

Catwalk Copy

Lucy Liu on the set of her new show “Cashmere Mafia” & Beyonce at the opening of the Samantha Thavasa store in Japan earlier this year.

Left: Two-Toned Platform Slingback Pumps, $42.90, www.flyjane.net
Right: Christian Louboutin’s Fox Trot Platform Slingbacks, $283.90 (reduced from $710), www.saksfifthavenue.com

Christian Louboutin’s Fox Trot Platform Slingbacks are sold out at both Saks and Net-A-Porter.com. Never fear, FlyJane.net has exact copies for a fraction of the price. Make like Lucy Liu and Beyonce and rock them this winter with tights. The great thing about these shoes is that you can rock them with gold, silver and/or black accessories. There’s nothing like versatility.

On another note, what do you all think about the new ABC show by "Sex in the City" producer Darren Star? The show's wardrobe will be selected by stylist Patricia Field, another Sex in the City alum. The show was scheduled to air this Fall but due to the Writers Guild of America strike, ABC has delayed the premiere of the series. Check out the trailor below...

Coats for Fall: Volume

Rachel Roy backstage at the J. Mendel Spring 2007 Ready-to-Wear show.

Left to right: Lantern Sleeve Jacket, $475, www.net-a-porter.com; Ashley Capelet, $58.50, www.delias.com; Supreme Jacket, $188, www.fcusbuymail.com; Karli Covert Twill Jacket, $68, www.urbanoutfitters.com

Left to right: Amelia Coat, $49.80, www.forever21.com; Hooded Wool Coat, $78, www.styleviolet.com; Diane von Furstenberg 'Saffra' Coat, $625, www.nordstrom.com; J.O. 3/4 Contour Coat, $278, www.cache.com

Bell and wide sleeves are all over the stores these days but how the hell do you wear them? Some of the sleeves look a little too short for winter however, the key is to wear them with a long sleeved sweater or even better, elbow-long leather gloves. If you'd rather keep your coat’s sleeves long but still want to dabble with this trend go with a coat that doesn’t cinch at the waist like the coat above from Cache. Also consider a bubble hem coat. Now, some might say you need to balance a voluminous jacket with tight, skinny jeans but I say pair them with wide leg pants for the ultimate in chic.