Espadrille me pretty!

Do you want to skip the flip flop and still feel comfortable?

Do you want to jump from the beach to a barbeque without worrying about to change?

So the espadrilles are the answer for this summer and they are chic, comfy, fun and stylish. Plus super cute and there are no secrets about how to wear them. They go with anything especially with sundresses and jeans!!

The original flat espadrille is made of canvas sewn on a jute sole, with or without ties wrapped around the ankle. The sole is made of braided jute and this organic fiber allows the foot to breath and makes this classic shoe a must for summer indoor and outdoor wear.

Since they have a rustic look, they are definitely oriented for a more casual outfit; out to the beach, a walk, or a barbecue and it combines perfectly with organic fabrics, loose pieces (short or long) and fun prints.

The espadrille has been around for centuries. The espadrille, also known as alpargata or espardenya, is believed to originate from the Basque country in Spain. Originally it was worn by men and it was during the 19th century that the production of these shoes truly spread. Espadrilles were worn by everyone from peasants to military soldiers to priests. Around 1950, fashion evolved and this forced alpargata makers to reinvent the shoe with a more sophisticated design that was better suited to the times. Yves St-Laurent in the 1960's asked for an espadrille with a heel, which had never been done before. It was a success!!

Espadrilles have been worn by many artists such as Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali, and helped make the shoes very popular. Later on, because of celebrities like Grace Kelly, Jacqueline Kennedy, Catherine Deneuve, Caroline de Monaco, Jack Nicholson, Michael Douglas, Sophia Loren, Her Majesty Sophia, Queen of Spain and even Jean-Paul II that the espadrilles’ popularity continued to grow.

These straw styles are the ultimate summer shoes. You’ll be effortlessly prepared for endless summer.

There are also a number of styles for men to sport this summer season. Men can add effortless style to their outfits by just slipping on pair.

 (2 photos right credits The Sartorialist)

Some of this season's espadrilles!! 

a. Toms UNIVERSITY ESPADRILLE RED CANVAS

b. Missoni Woven canvas espadrille flats

c. Ras Women's RA29-657SU1Y Ballet Flat Espadrille

d. H&M striped espadrille

e. Marisa metallic canvas espadrilles

f. kate spade new york 'lido' espadrille flat

g. Missoni Flat Espadrille in Fabric Rope

h. Tabitha Simmons Striped Silk Espadrille Sneaker

(Some information of the espadrille history came from here).

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Shake of the week >>

Fancy for a drink?

Check out the drink of the week and get fashionably inspired >>

[The shake]:

Mocha Root Beer Float

makes one float
3 small scoops vanilla bean ice cream (any variety)
* I used Coconut Milk ice cream which gave the entire float a tropical accent
1 Tbsp chocolate syrup
1 shot espresso (for coffee-free version, sub with more root beer)
1 can or bottle of root beer – use as much as fills your glass – add more as you drink if you’d like
swirl of whipped cream – any variety
* I used soy whipped cream
1 tall parfait/milkshake glass
Directions:
1. Add vanilla ice cream
2. Add chocolate syrup.
3. Add espresso – or root beer. Add root beer until foams to top.
4. Add whipped cream on top.

CREDITS photo and recipe from here. 

[The fashion]:

A creamy choco in a 70's chic casual look with Sheer georgette blouse at theoutnet.com, BALMAIN - SUEDE BELL BOTTOM TROUSERS, Christian Louboutin Rozeppa 140 suede sandals, Christian Louboutin Mini Sweet Charity leather bag, Kenneth Jay Lane Gold Square Link Bracelet, Karen Walker Eyewear Bunny Sunglasses and for a pop of color, Yves Saint Laurent 'Rouge Volupte' Lipstick.

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Buttoned-up shirts.

Lately I have been showing the various ways you can wear your button-down shirt. It is such a great piece because of it's versatility.  You can go boyfriend style, tie the blouse and for last, button it up all the way! This trend has been going on for awhile and it seems to be getting stronger as you see more of it often.    

At first this ‘look’ might seem matronly or even slightly schoolgirl but paired with the right elements, you'll look fashionably chic. 

Seriously, this shirt goes with anything. And to give it a little twist, embellish the collar!!  

  

Button it up all the way and:

• Tie a ribbon on the color. Either fluffy or slimmer, it has a romantic chic look and adds detail.
• It's all about details on the color too! Check out this DIY for the tip of the collar.
• Use it under a fun sweater for a casual look.
• Choose a sheer shirt tucked into high-waisters or go floaty and romantic and a little less well behaved.
• Use a statement necklace close to the neck. Sparkly or colorful rocks! A glittery, bejeweled collar adds a dose of glamor and a beaded collar instantly dresses up a white t-shirt, while sweet lace-embroidered or crochet adds vintage chic to your work blouse.

• If you don't have a buttoned shirt, why not create the look by faking it with detachable collars. Embellished necklines make their way to the fashion frontline this season.
  
• You can mix and match the collar with any of your tops or dresses and go beyond the traditional necklace.

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Tie the knot

... On your button down shirt!
This summer trend has made a comeback and you see a lot of fashion bloggers and celebrities rocking this style in a very cool way.
The button down shirt can be so more versatile than you'd ever imagine. It can go from classic sophisticated to casual chic in a snap and all you need to do is tie your blouse and it'll look good with anything!

This look is so easy to accomplish. Tie the blouse over a maxi dress or skirt and if you're not afraid to show a little midriff, tie it higher and show some skin.

The point is to be playful yet casual.

• Choose a button down shirt that you feel comfortable in - Denim, crisp white...
• Play with prints if you go neutral on top. Use it with a printed long maxi or short skirt. 
• Wear it over a tank, dress or shirt.
• Go 70's with some flare wide pants.
• High-waisted shorts or pants
• Roll up the sleeves for a more casual sexy look.

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Shake of the week >>

Fancy for a drink?

Check out the drink of the week and get fashionably inspired >>

 

[The shake]:

Mint Chocolate Shake

In a blender, combine the following ingredients and blend for 2 milk shakes

• 4 scoops mint chocolate chip ice cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 drop of peppermint extract

Pour into glasses with a sprig of mint and or whipped cream garnish.

Add additional milk to the blender if a thinner shake is desired. You can also add some additional chocolate syrup if you like.

[The fashion]:

A mint and chocolate refreshing look for the summer with Alexander Wang Mesh OS w Foil Sweater, DIANE VON FURSTENBERG Simca High-Waist Shorts, Tan contrast platform sandals at dorothyperkins.com, a Faux Leopard Cross Body Bag from miss selfridge, Yves Saint Laurent Arty gold-plated glass ring in mint, ASOS Mint Round Sunglasses and to finis the look, coat your nails with Revlon Minted nailpolish.

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The Boyfriend White Shirt

The white button-down shirt is one of the most classic and versatile items of clothing that every fashionista should own! You can style it in various ways from dress pants to jeans, shorts or skirts. Casual or chic...
Challenge yourself to go beyond the conventional of wearing it in a classic tucked-in into a pencil skirt. Lately, this white button-down shirt has gone very boyfriend inspired, in a loose laid-back style.

The white shirt is just not for work!

The boyfriend shirt inspiration gives it a simple, effortless but sexy look.
How to wear it:

• It should be long enough to wear it as a dress or tunic with bare legs, shorts or tights but that still fits reasonably well around the shoulders;
• With the looser, lighter fabric shirt, it's often best to roll up the sleeves to show off the feminine body-parts of arms and wrists to balance the masculinity of the shirt. 
• Tuck it in denim shorts and use lots of accessories.
• For a sophisticated look, use it with a pencil skirt in a chic fabric.
• When accessorizing, a belt makes a difference. It can completely change the look giving a more feminine touch and accentuating more curves. Trey some layered bangles on the wrist mixed with a big watch and a scarf.

A men-inspired style can be hard to fit to female proportions sometimes and not always should we follow the fashion trends if the style doesn't flatter or suit you perfectly.
For a timeless and classic investment piece, we should pick a good fitted and crisp shirt. Classic tops that get you through almost any situation.
>> Next week, check out the post for the best button-down shirt for your body type!

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Hello Yellow

Yellow is a very strong bright color and you can surely be noticed when wearing it. Is is also apealing and festive for the summer so why not go for this color trend and have fun with it adding some sunshine to your wardrobe

a. Dorothy Perkins yellow wood section color
b. Yellow Slinky Frill One Piece Swimsuit from Topshop
c. Mecox Gardens - Tulipa Yellow/Grey Cut Velvet Pillow Detail
d. Deborah Lippmann Yellow Brick Road Nail Color
e. Pleat Bobble Clutch Bag
f. Yellow Pleated Flippy Skirt from Topshop
g. Pineapple Short-Sleeve Top at Delias
h. 1STDIBS.COM 40's Assymetric Platinum Diamond
i. BC Footwear Limousine Shoe
j. ASOS Leather Colour Block Satchel at ASOS


How to wear yellow:

• Choose the right shade: Dark hair and dark skin can go for more vivid colors; Blonde or light skin go for more soft and muted shades; Redheads look good in red undertones or honey yellow tones.
• If you think yellow is unflatering on you or too bold to wear it alone , choose a print with other colors or mix it with other colors - Yellow goes well with navy blue or silver. The color block trend this s/s almost alows any combination so try something more vivid and fun with contrasting colors such as combining it with pink or mint green.
• Accessorise - Still too much yellow? Then try incorporating a splash of yellow by adding a yellow handbag or yellow shoes in a more darker outfit .
• Pick one piece of your ensemble in yellow and keep the rest of the look more muted - a nice skirt does the job perfectly
• If you have a tan and want to show it off, go for yellow. 

More Asos...

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Flatforms - Yay or Nay?

So we all know the 70´s trend this S/S is very strong and all that relates to it, has emerged too... such as the famous platform shoes. But this spring, a new twist of this vintage classic has been flooding the market - it´s called the flatform, where the sole of the shoe is all one piece.

Runways shows had them such as Prada, Fendi, Chanel, Michael Kors, and easily it was translated to the market. 

Although a lot of people swaer it´s very comfy, I still wonder how awkward it may feel walking since it has no shape or either does it bend.

With what can you wear these shoes with? Almost anything. 

• the 70´s flare pants 
• long skirts and dresses - it will make you look taller
• chic boho mini shorts
• wooden or cork soles might work better for day
• leather or satin is a crisper look for evening

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Shake of the week >>

Fancy for a drink??
Check out the drink for the week and get fashionably inspired.

[The shake]:

Lemon-Mango Smoothie

• 1 1/4 cups Silk Light Vanilla, chilled
• 1 (6-oz.) lemon yogurt
• 1/2 cup sliced mango, chilled

PREPARATION

Combine the ingredients in a blender and mix until smooth, about 2 minutes.
Serves 2
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Level of Difficulty: Easy

Courtesy of TheBestLife.com ©2008-2009 The BestLife.com and WhiteWave Foods


[The fashion]:

The temperatures are rising, the heat is on and no better way to deal with this heat and humidity with a refreshing flowy outfit.

Alice + Olivia Carmela Draped Tube Top and Shannon Long Skirt, spotted at Neiman Marcus. Tom Ford sunnies, Marc by Marc Jacobs Canteen woven seagrass cross-body bag. Sam Edelman Nude Kellan Lace Up Cut Out Wedge, Kendra Scott Danielle Earrings in Salmon and Alice Cicolini Enamel Ring - Lemon Quartz.

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Feeling Exotic - Aztec

The aztec motif is really in and it’s getting more and more popular. It's the ethnicity that gives it a gypys-bohemian-hippie style and since prints are here to stay, I say these motifs are pretty cool.

You just don't go to go overboard with the motif and keep it relaxed and chic, in a simple way. Try using one or two pieces with the motif in a ensemble and mix the aztec accessories in a neutral look. A nice sexy curvy dress will do the show too!

Here are some of my favorites:

a. Nanto Necklace
b. BCBGeneration Handbag, Aztec Straw Clutch
c. Aztec Vest - All Saints
d. Mazati
e. ASOS Aztec Barrel Flat Handle 70's Bag
f. Low Luv by Erin Wasson Aztec Finger Ring in Gold
g. Aztec Skirt - All Saints
h. Alexandra Beth Aztec Leather Bracelet in Bright Orange Alexandra Beth Designs
i. House Of Harlow 14k Gold Plated And Red Aztec Bracelet
j. Black and white beaded leather 'Aztec' sandals Matt Bernson Pin It

What to wear with red shoes.

Red shoes are super glam, super chic and a very big trend lately. They complement any look and give that special touch in a more simple ensemble. You can never go wrong with red pumps, or flat sandals or cute ballerinas - Red shoes play well throughout the day.

Get dazzled with all the options that can be worn with red shoes:

a. A neutral look

Pop up a look that's more simple and neutral but ever so sophisticated with a good choice of fabrics such as a tan silk top and pair it with jeans and red ballerinas. This ensemble is so elegant and can be worn anytime.

b. Navy Blue

Red and blue just match so perfectly and instead of going nautically why not opt for a well fitted navy suit and shiny red pumps? A great option for a work outfit and the red pump gives that punch of flare in contrast with the crispy suit.

c. Black & White Stripes

This couldn't be more perfect; white, black and red combo. The perfect match! Stripes is a big trend and you can ensemble the look with red shoes and you'll look great for anytime of the day! 

d. White Strapless Dress

Go romantic and fun with white and red! White just asks for color so go super funky and fun with red high heels or sandals.

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Shake of the week >>

Fancy for a drink??
Check out the drink for the week and get fashionably inspired.

Happy Memorial day!!

[The Shake]:
 

Spiked Sparkling Iced Tea Smoothie

• 12-24 raspberries, blueberries and/or sliced strawberries
• 1 cup Lipton® Sparkling Diet or Regular Green Tea with Strawberry Kiwi or Lipton® Sparkling Green Tea with Berry
• 1/4 cup Skyy Infusions™ All Natural Ginger or Citrus Vodka
• 2 tablespoons honey

Place 1-2 pieces of fruit into each compartment in ice cube tray; fill with Lipton® Sparkling Diet Green Tea with Strawberry Kiwi and freeze until firm, about 2 hours.
Process half of the ice cubes with vodka in a blender until smooth. Add the remaining iced tea cubes, one at a time, and process until smooth. With the blender motor running, gradually pour in the honey. Serve immediately.
(Recipe from Rachael Ray) 


[The Fashion]:

A memorial day inspired outfit for a casual day. Red Gold Button Cutout Suntop from Topshop, Current/Elliott The Ankle mid-rise skinny jeans, Jeffrey Campbell Loafers Cheetah, GRACIE BAG, Elizabeth Street 14k twist band, Erickson Beamon Safari Earrings, Sequin Cleopatra Bracelet Set, Lapis, and finally, you can't go this summer without a cute hat, such as Mayser Natur Panama-Straw Hat.

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Kitschy but Cutie

But then, who are we to stay what's kitsch or not? Thankfully, fashion has driven style into a more personal statement with some common links here and there, reviving old trends, creating new ones and embracing the perfect creative style that we all create out there.

I love revivals...especially when they come back in a more sophisticated way. Remember those friendship bracelets? Well they are back in everybody's wrist. Given by a friend or not, the more you have on your arm, and the more you mix, the better it looks. I love the ones with bling-bling and I surely hoped I knew how to make my own. But then, we have these out there... gorgeous!

This is the kitsch I like! Keep your inner child alive...

Images from Frieda and Nellie and Links of London

More Shashi...

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Blue Pants

Bright and bold are the key trend for this S/S and it couldn't have gone more brighter with all the vast options of colorful pants!- They are hot and trendy and I just love the blue skinny pants.

Get a sophisticated and sleek look with good quality pieces and keep the top part simple and clean, with a neutral tank top.

a. J Brand Bright Royale Blue Mid Rise Skinny Jean | b. Alexander Wang Round Sunglasses (gold) | c. Alexander Wang Jade String Ray Clutch | d. Gucci Metallic python multi-strap sandals | e. T by Alexander Wang Button Down Silk Tank | f. Michael Kors Striped cashmere scarf

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Shake of the week >>

Fancy for a drink??
Check out the drink for the week and get fashionably inspired.

[The Shake]:

Cherry Milkshake

- 200g vanilla ice cream
- 1.5 tbsp milk
- 150g fresh cherries
- 2 additional cherries & whipped cream for garnishing (optional)

Directions
1. Remove cherry stalk and pit from each cherry. Chop one of the cherries to small dices for garnishing later.
2. Blend ice cream, milk and pitted cherries till smooth, do not over blend or it will become watery.
3. Garnishing ideas: Top with marshmallows and chopped cherries. Make a slit at the bottom of a cherry and slot it to the rim of the glass.
(recipe from Noob Cook)

[The fashion]:

A nice sweet, cream pink milkshake requires a sweet, girly casual outfit. Therapy Cherry print t-shirt at House of Fraser, True Religion Shorts Jayde Punch at Jades 24, A knit Cardigan to top the look for a breezy night. The accessories go with the theme with a cherry valley metallica kyra clutch from Kate Spade, ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Skull and Cherry Blossom ring, Juicy Couture - Cherry Heart Icons Cherry Heart Drop Earring, Selima Optique Andy round-frame acetate sunglasses, a slim leopard print belt for a twist and finally, Proenza Schouler Zip Front Laser Cut Sandal. 

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Shake of the week >>

Fancy for a drink??
Check out the drink for the week and get fashionably inspired.

[The shake]:

Watermelon Slushy

Very simple, very refreshing and the best to keep you cool and hydrated for this summer.

1. Crush ice in a blender until chunky or smooth
2. Add unseeded watermelon cut into chunks
3. Add sugar or honey
4. Blend until it is at the consistency you prefer, smooth or chunky
5. For the visual effect, place a small slice of watermelon on the side of the glass.

[The fashion]:

Watermelon is a great fruit for the summer and super healthy so we went for a look that highlights it's color and a obvious tank top from Delias, the Isabel Marant Etien Jacket, DKNY Cropped stretch-cotton pants, Charlotte Olympia - Rio Sandals, Mulberry Watermelon Mini Alexa, and the accessories are juicy and colored as the fruit: Aurélie Bidermann Do Brazil 18-karat gold-plated bracelet, Juicy Couture - B-Pave Watermelon Wish Bracelet, Cacharel Cutler & Gross Circular Lens Sunglasses, Essie Nail Polish - Watermelon. 

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Feeling Exotic

I thought it was totally unthinkable wearing these two colors together: green and red. First, because it's the colors of my country flag and anyone who'd wear it, would be either cheering for our soccer team or being totally tacky and of course, it is very Christmas festive if you don't pull off a smart outfit.

Now as this season bright color contrast trend is on, the more I see people wearing this combo. 

They are two opposing colors in the color wheel and it's hard to put them together although you can make any color combination happen just as long as you have the right tint-tone-shade

Something about these two colors, that reminds me of a vintage exotic feel so instead of going color block, choose a print and accessorize it with flashes of red and green.

a. Honolulu Holiday Dress at Modcloth
b. Jalda Lizard-Embossed Gabrielle Clutch
c. Kenneth Jay Lane Starfish Bangle
d. House of Harlow Oversized Sunglasses
e. Red Honolulu High Heel Shoes
f. Kenneth Jay Lane Exotic Jewelled Ring
g. Peacock Chair Pin It

Shake of the week >>

Fancy for a drink??
Check out the drink for the week and get fashionably inspired.

[The Shake]:

Kiwi Coconut Smoothie

Ingredients

• 4 Kiwi skin removed

• 1/4 cup light coconut milk

• 1 tbsp.-sized chunk of pineapple

• Agave or honey to taste

Directions
Step 1 – Place all ingredients in a blender and blend till smooth. 

[The Fashion]:

As exotic is the drink, I went for a exotic mix of patterns. Pants that remind me of the rough texture of coconut, from youheshe.com. A striped tank top in green from buckle. A neutral poncho to warm you up in those cool spring days and a statement green bag from the Cambridge Satchel Company. Accessories are gold and black with a Day Hedgehog coconut shell necklace at mywardrobe.com, Lanvin metal cuff sandals, and to finish off, Dsquared bracelet and Alex Bittar bracelet.

Enjoy your exotic mix of the day!

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Love is Pink

This will be my first mother's day and motherhood has brought me so many joyful days and a whole lot of new experiences and feelings. 

It's the biggest blessing in the world and every day I heart what I have and feel so lucky and blessed.

So for mother's day, I just want to go all girly pink because I will be sharing it with my baby daughter!

Have a great weekend and Happy Mother's day!! ♥♥♥

Hot, hot trend right now is the combo bubblegum and neutral!!! Get inspired:

(a - b - c - d - e - f - g)

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Kitten Heels

Do you think it´s Yay or Nay?

This trend seems to be rising lately and I think it´s a timeless style, feminine, a little bit more conservative, but depending on the occasion and style it works out perfectly!

It´s a trend that works in favor of your feet. They sure are a lot more comfy and you can style in heels all day long without getting the pain! They look great in almost every outfit and it´s a great option for a work outfit and better than flats when it comes to looking more dressed up.

They´ll look great with:

• a full skirted 50´s dress
• straight on the knee skirt
• capri pants
• work suit

Note* Kitten heels, are better suited to straight, skinny figures just because of proportion. Heavy legs and ankles, should avoid at all costs: it merely looks as if you are about to fall over, or sink into the floor.

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