NYFW STREET STYLE

When designers send a model down the runway or clothing stores dress a manikin everything is so carefully concocted and perfected. While it's usually beautiful to look at, there's not much personality in it. When it comes to street style however, you get to see how the latest fashions are actually worn. Different designers are mixed & matched to create a unique look. The styling isn't there to market a product to the masses, but instead to express individual style and push the limits. As I've mentioned before, I love street style for that exact reason. I admire the creative styling, which Im highlighting below and showing you how to easily recreate! 

How cool is this powerful pinstriped look? I love how she belted the blazer to accentuate her waist and added a red neckerchief which pairs nicely with the pinstripes. The quirky chic Louis Vuitton trunk clutch is just the cherry on top. 

By now I'm sure we all know the 70's are in. Suede, fringe, bell bottom flares, platforms, and circle sunnies can be found in just about every designer collection and fast fashion store. What really gets me is how well all of these trends were combined in this look without being too overpowering or costume-y. The white on white is simple enough to go with not just one, but two fringed outerwear selections. 

This look appears quite classic on top, with a soft pink coat, graphic sweater, and white neckerchief. However, it's quite trendy on bottom with a pair of white cropped flare jeans and lace up military booties. 

All street style images from Refinery 29.

THE TRENDS OF NYFW F/W '16

Not to get ahead of ourselves (as it's merely warming up to spring temps), but after the New York Fashion Week shows this past week it's apparent that we have a LOT to look forward to for Fall/Winter 2016. NYFW is typically the most casual in it's Ready To Wear fashion, so it's usually the best indication of what we will actually be seeing on the shelves and the streets this August. While there were many standout shows, I noticed quite a few overwhelming trends that intrigued me... 

CLEAN SLATE

Minimalism is still going strong. Designers are encouraging whites for winter and giving us a nice selection of garments with clean lines from strapless flowing dresses to robe-style fur coats. As a stylist, when I see simple pieces like these I think of them as a perfect clean slate. My mind starts running wild with ways to accessorize them with funky jewelry or a bright shoe.

Brock Collection, Brandon Maxwell, Dion Lee

FLAPPER FRINGE

Bohemian fringe has a new counterpart, it's cooler older sister: 20's inspired flapper fringe. We're getting major Gatsby vibes from these looks and can't complain one bit. 

Rachel Zoe, Zimmerman, Jason Wu

PINK AND YELLOW

Being one of Pantone's colors of the year, it's no surprise that rose quartz is gracing the runways left and right. However, select designers are taking a unique approach by styling their pinks with shades of yellow varying from bright neons to subdued mustard-y hues. This traditionally spring/summer color combo works surprisingly well with F/W fashions. Who knew? 

Creatures of Comfort, Marissa Webb, Delpozo

PATTERN PLAY

Here to contrast the stark minimalism we're seeing in fashion, pattern play is full of whimsy and color. So why not throw a leopard print coat on top of your floral silk pajamas? J. Crew did it...

J Crew, Clover Canyon, Coach

ON THE GRID

Plaid is pretty much a no-brainer when it comes to fall and winter fashion. Although this season we'll also be seeing a lot of clean, gridded patterns. The grids are a little less hectic and look more modern than your traditional lumberjack plaid. 

Jason Wu, Michael Kors, Kaelen

All images from Vogue.com. To see more trends I am loving right now be sure to follow my "Trends I Love" Pinterest board. 

ACNE

It's not a secret that I lean toward simple, clean clothing design. My house even reflects this same contemporary aesthetic. I'm thinking I need to visit Sweden more and more each day.

In all fashion seriousness though, my desire is to have timeless pieces that can be styled in a fashion forward way and will last a long time. That's why I really love ACNE. I feel like their clothing spans age groups, and can be easily dressed up OR down.

Think about it, you can add chunky jewelry and a fur vest to make it feel younger or add nothing to appear more mature and sophisticated. You can also add a leather jacket and motorcycle boots to look causal or strappy heels and cocktail rings for a night out.

ACNE also does a great job about thinking of the functionality of their clothing. The fabrics are quality, the cuts are comfortable, and there's always a designer detail touch suck as an asymmetric zipper to give a piece an edge.

This clothing brand gets overlooked, but I encourage you to check out their fall collection! I especially like to view designer clothes on my-wardrobe.com because they show items by themselves, as well as in a styled look.

Billy Reid

GQ named Billy Reid 2010's Best New Menswear Designer. Now that may not mean a lot to those that live in Arizona where we have yet to experience a Billy Reid store, but if you want to stay up-to-date on menswear you should definitely visit Billy Reid's website where you can purchase suits, blazers, hats, pants, shoes...the whole shabang. Billy is known for their preppy/modern Southern gentleman's style. I'm not the biggest fan of bow ties, but their clothes are well made. Investing in a blazer or suit from Billy would be wise. Click the title to see more looks.

Handmade Goodies

I'm so blessed to be connected with so many creative people in this world! I know several people that have side businesses creating handmade items that are SO adorable I wanted to share them with you.Katelyn Block - Domestic Charm She bakes some of the most beautiful and creative cakes out of her home. If you're having a birthday party, bridal or baby shower or wedding, definitely give her a ring! Plus, she has a great blog that you should subscribe to get yummy recipes!

Tarrah Ritchie - Laila's Lovelies She makes fun, eclectic bags that can brighten up any outfit. She just had a beautiful baby boy named Patrick, so she has taken a break for a bit from sewing, but she's back in the swing of things. She has even started a blog sharing her designs loves. Tarrah's also a very accomplished artist, so I'm really excited to see what else comes out of Laila's Lovelies.

Emily Hall - Emilee Rose Designs I went to high school and was in youth group with Emily. She is an amazing artist that has pursued her talents and recently started her own stationary business. She also has a blog that shares her new products and life updates. Make sure to check her out next time you're in the market for stationary or invites!

Danielle Axtell - Baby Mae Couture My dear friend Danielle has started her own baby line that just got picked up by some local boutiques. If you want to buy a unique gift for an infant or toddler, check Baby Mae out! I just had a dress and bib made for my niece's first birthday. Picture will be coming, but until then check out her stuff! She also has a great blog that shares her life and fun finds.

Amber Crudele -Crochet Addict I've never gotten to meet Amber, but she is a dear friend of my sister-in-law, Nicky, and she crochets some of the cutest things. From teddy bears to coffee cozies, check Amber's Etsy page for unique, handmade gifts.

Alexis Lundberg - That's Sew Lexi Lexi is very talented with a sewing machine and started a business sewing aprons that are the perfect a wedding shower gift. Not only do you get to pick your own colors, but she personalizes each one with a message or verse of your choice to be kept in the pocket of the apron. I had one of these made for a best friend of mine, and it felt so good to give her something more personal than a picture frame.