Variations of pastel and khaki combos usher in a refreshing change from the inky hues and neon brights of years past. Don’t worry about missing the pop factor, these colors flatter a wide range of brown skinned beauties. Declare your closet as a neutral zone come spring!

1) Oversized 70’s Nude Sunglasses, Asos, $17.24 – When the weather gets warm, keep your cool in these nude retro frames.

2) Mink Muffs Nail Polish, Essie, $8.00 – A rich toasty shade that goes with just about anything.

3) Leather Frill Clutch Bag, Topshop, $80.00 – Flirty ruffle details add interest to an anything but basic bag.

4) Canvas Moto Jacket, American Eagle, $69.50 – Hello Moto! Gritty meets pretty in a structured motorcycle inspired jacket.

5) Lerario Beatriz Linen Military Waistcoat, Amelie boutique, £96.00 – A military vest balanced with just the right amount of drape.

6) Military Cargo Pant, American Eagle, $29.95 – Utility pants are a must this season. Cuff and roll ‘em for an effortless relaxed look.

7) 7 for All Man Kind Cascade Tank, Piperlime - $69.95 It doesn’t get more feminine than a cascade of ruffles with a whisper of pink.

8) House of Harlow Cream Leather Starburst Pendant Necklace, Shop the Trend Boutique, $79 – Leather and gold is a win-win combination in a stunning wear with everything pendant.

9) 5” Pleated Cuff Short, Old Navy, $15.99 – The classic short is back with a longer, more wearable inseam.

10) Chinese Laundry ‘Love Me’ Sandal, Heels.com, $59.49 – Nude shoes instantly elongate legs. A high heel platform sandal lends the finishing touch to otherwise casual attire.

The post Spring Essentials – Neutral Territory appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

Stocking up on quality accessories might sound like a pricey proposition, but if you shop smart and buy what’s in line with your personality (and budget), your cost per wear should be significantly low.

1. Bags
Few accoutrements have gained as much importance over the years as the handbag. Utilitarian purposes aside, we’ve rarely seen an outfit suffer from the addition of a stand out carryall. Since we practically carry our whole lives in our purses, it stands to reason that they would be associated as a representation of a total persona. Nothing says sophisticated like a clutch that can take you from day to night, a sturdy satchel or bowler adds professional polish, and frameless shoulder bags lend an effortlessly relaxed appeal. Be bold with bags with embellishments and bright colors or keep it classic with rich neutral tones and smart details.

2. Shoes
Whether you’re a street pump princess or a sexy stiletto lover, putting your best foot forward can only sharpen your style. For instance, pointy-toe (not as exaggerated as popular styles from years past) shoes can instantly elongate legs and charming flats can give thrown on jeans and t-shirts the appearance of being thoughtfully planned. This is also the perfect category to think outside the box with color-metallics can act as neutrals and matchy-matchy (shoes to ensemble) isn’t necessarily considered a do.

3. Jewelry
Adorning yourself with distinctive gems can add a new layer of dimension to a seen-before ensemble. Layer on the jewels for unexpected appeal or pick one conversation piece to make a dramatic statement. Use trinkets and baubles to highlight your best assets-shiny studs light up your face, rings draw attention to lithe hands, bracelets can anchor toned arms, and dangling earrings accentuate strong shoulders and a graceful neck.

4. Eyewear
Face framing shields for the glamorous, shy or mysterious can do wonders. Need to run out the door, but don’t have time for an all encompassing make up routine? You can still look ‘finished’ as a multitude of skin flaws can be forgiven behind a pair of fierce sunglasses. Even if you have perfect vision, the addition of a pair of non-prescription spectacles to your everyday wear is a great way to switch it up. Be sure to choose the right shape and size in order to compliment your lovely face.

5. Scarves
Throwing a scarf on is an easy option to incorporate a bit of print or color to your existing style staples. We’ve come to love them as accentuating neck pieces that add a flattering flash of color, but these wardrobe work horses can pull triple duty as a sash, wrap, or head dress.

6. Belts
It’s hard to believe that something so small can so completely transform the mood of an outfit, but this ultimate shape shifter is simply a must for any style chameleon.
Voluminous, otherwise shapeless frocks can become figure grazing garments with a cinch at the waist. Layered over jackets, dresses, or tunics the stylish possibilities abound.

The post Six Accessories That Can Change Your Look appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

It may seem a bit premature to start thinking about a spring wardrobe in January, but in our minds it’s never too early to discuss what’s coming up on the fashion horizon. Many of the designer collections revealed during Spring 2010 fashion week were certifiably covet worthy, but a few emerging trends had us wondering if our style savvy readers would be ready to rock ‘em come spring.

Lingerie Looks: After so many seasons filled with hard edged sensibility, fashion is showing its softer side again. What lies beneath comes to the light as femme fatale bustiers , camisoles, flouncy shorts, and chemises in a pastel palette become the sartorial focus for spring. Replacing traditional t-shirts, blouses, and dresses (if only for a season), the ‘unmentionables’ are ready for their close up.

Will you be flaunting your inner P.Y.T or keeping it in the closet?

Dare to Bare: Hand in hand with the lingerie looks are sheer and peak- a- boo opening details. Not a trend for the faint of heart, strategic cut outs and sheer panels are designed in just the right places to leave as much or as little to the imagination as you can brave. Even jewelry gets in on the game as look-at-me Lucite baubles and other transparent trinkets accentuate the theme.

You tell us, is the less is more style sheer madness or genius?

Denim vs. Denim: If there’s one item that gets top billing this spring it’s denim. From Ralph Lauren to Jean Paul Gaultier, designers have chopped and screwed, patched, bleached out, gilded, and streamlined the body of a beloved wardrobe staple. Vintage blues hues (sans the crazy washes and destruction) and head to toe denim dressing are the newest interpretations. Remember your favorite overalls from back in the day? Oh, yeah they’re making a comeback.

So, we want to know what you think, fashion don’t or fashion do?

Mixed prints: We were all giddy about the explosion of floral, ethnic, animal, and digital motifs that popped up under the tents. Otherworldly digital prints that lend a futuristic vibe to otherwise standard pieces were the stand out. The new news in this category is wearing a mélange of the aforementioned prints all in one tightly edited ensemble.

The bold trend definitely makes a statement, but does it say fashion forward or fashion fail?

Spring Leather: Not usually thought of as an ideal fabric for wear when the weather turns warm, leather is turning over a new leaf for spring in lighter weights and fluid cuts. Recreating itself in everything from shorts to drapey tanks, could leather actually be on its way to becoming a year round staple?

If runway offerings by Phillip Lim are any indication then the answer could be yes, but who’s throwing in their bag?

Funky Footwear: Designers continue to dazzle us with shoe designs that border on being categorized as architectural wonders. The most notable being the whimsical creations introduced during Alexander McQueen’s showing. Sure, they’re nice to fantasize about, but is it humanly possible to strut in them without suffering? Add clogs, chunky clear platforms, and sky high wedges to the list of feats for the fearless to attempt this spring. We can’t wait to see how Steve Madden manages to spin the McQueen’s into a knock off.

If he does (and we know he, or someone, will find a way) would you rock it?

The post Would You Rock? Spring 2010 Edition appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

How many times have you found yourself admiring a new potential clothing purchase only to have your fashion daydream crushed by a hefty price tag that rivals your rent? Let’s face it, being fabulous and broke is no easy feat. For style mavens with checking account balances that fall short of being able to support their wildest fashion fantasies there is hope. With a little common sense and shopping savvy a great look can be achieved without spending a fortune.

Take Inventory

Before venturing off on your next shopping trip take stock of what’s already in the closet. Get rid of clothing that no longer flatters or reflects your current personal style and weed out duplicate items. Honestly, does one really need 10 black t-shirts that don’t fit properly anyway? The goal is to figure out what is needed in order to have a more focused shopping experience. This is also an opportune time to rediscover gems that you already own!

Shop Smart

Unless you’re headed for the clearance rack, the mall might not be the best place to hunt for a deal. Sample or warehouse sales are more ideal places to pick up designer goods for fractions of the original price. Outlet malls, consignment and vintage shops in larger cities tend to have chic fashions at great prices. If you don’t have access to these options or if you prefer mall shopping try making friends with the sales staff at your favorite spots. They can alert you to sales and new merchandise shipments. Buying off-season items while their prices are drastically reduced is another way to save yourself a nice chunk of change.

Get the Look for Less

Achieving great style on a budget is easier than ever before thanks to designers producing diffusion (read less expensive) collections with mass merchants like Target and Payless shoes. Great interpretations of the latest trends can often be found at H&M, TJMaxx, Forever 21, TopShop, Zara and Old Navy to name a few. Don’t forget about the internet also known as the frugal fashionistas dream! This is especially true if you’re unable to take advantage of the alternative shopping options mentioned in the previous point. Try www.anyknockoff.com, www.fashionflairs.com, www.asos.com. www.the15dollarstore.com, www.girlprops.com, www.ebay.com, and www.endless.com for fabulous deals.

Save vs. Splurge

Knowing when to spend a little more on an investment purchase and when to save by hunting for a bargain is an essential part of getting more for your money. Invest in anything you absolutely love, clothing that has a great fit, classic never-go-out–of- style items like suits and pencil skirts, and accessories that add polish and a touch of distinction to any outfit. Save on trendy items that you’ll care less about next year and basics like t-shirts that you can purchase anywhere. Also consider care and maintenance when deciding whether your next purchase is really a steal. It’s ideal to have a balance of both investment and thrifty finds so that the total look doesn’t scream “cheap.”

The post How to Be Fly Without Breaking the Bank appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

Baruch

The look: We shun drama in our personal lives, but in our closets…well, that’s another matter. Sultry, slightly edgy with a focus on fit and detailing, the Baruch line is the daring answer to the global minded trend. Edwardian, Romantic and Baroque influences seen throughout the collections reflect the darker more intense mood that many designers embraced for summer.

The story: Baruch, which in Hebrew means blessed, was launched just last year and is the vision of self taught London based designer Angela Knowles. Within her capsule collections, the designer focuses on creating accessible fashion for women who have an appreciation for vibrant colors and sharp style.

Visit Baruch @ www.baruch.me.uk

Sika

The look: Vintage takes on a modern spirit with funky styling and retro feminine cuts. Sika seamlessly marries traditional West African textiles and prints with a London hipster sensibility. We love how the lines four spring/summer collections: fusion, wonderland, spell bound and gold coast feature functional pieces for our multi-faceted fashion needs.

The story: Sika’s designer, Phyllis Taylor, is a native of Ghana living in London who not only uses her culture as inspiration, but also gives something back to the community from which the lines success is derived. Fabrics are made and sourced locally in Ghana, while skilled craftsman in the area are employed to produce the line.

Visit Sika @ www.sikadesigns.co.uk

Alala

The look: Alala’s spring/summer designs tread lightly on directional patterns for an end result that’s light, fun and flirty. From the pop of color boyfriend vest to the sexy open-back dress, this line is full of classic with a twist “ooh, I need those” pieces. Fortunately, with prices starting at $70-$400 we might be able to actually cop a few items for ourselves.

The story: As early as age 6 Taiwo, who is of Nigerian descent, recalls toying around with fabric and sewing. Since her childhood explorations in design and despite being told that she wasn’t that great, Adejoke can count being an alum of Project Runway Canada as one of her accomplishments. The designer has said of her line, “My collections main objective is to create pieces that the modern woman can easily take on retreats, as well as mix and match into their everyday wardrobe. Rich color, texture, and materials from around the globe are used to create an eclectic yet appropriate line of clothing.” We say that her mission was successfully accomplished.

Visit Alala @ www.adejoke.com

The post Designers to Watch appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

Clutch:Your Spring collection featured a strikingly simplistic white washed color palette and all ethnic models. What message or theme were you channeling through your presentation?
Edwing D’Angelo: My last collection Aquatica Spring 2009, had two messages: First, the all-white was inspired in our planet in peril with the poles melting in front of our very own eyes and we are in huge part responsible for it. The white exemplifies the sculptures left by the ice as it melts. That’s what the clothing is very structured and minimalistic. Second, the whole black model cast was in homage to our now president, Barack Obama, for his accomplishments and for breaking barriers and being a trailblazer, which is much needed in the modeling industry,which seems as if black models don’t exist or they are only good for certain type of expose.

Clutch: What pieces from your latest collection do you feel like every woman needs in her closet?
Edwing D’Angelo: I definitely feel that they should have the whole collection (LOL), but if I have to pick up I would like to choose my classic white with pleated bottom and the black details on the side. Look number 20, on the website.

Clutch: Although you come from a long line of Colombian tailors and seamstresses, but you didn’t initially turn to a career in fashion. What made you decide to take the leap from lawyer to fashion designer?
Edwing D’Angelo: I knew that I needed a career with zest for life. That law thing was strictly family pressure I was almost forced to follow that path because my parents thought that I had enough brain to take the family to the next level, but at one point I was very unhappy and disappointed with that career and I made a conscious decision to follow my dreams despite the fact that it caused an internal war with my parents. And here I am today…

Clutch: Can you offer any words of wisdom for others who may be contemplating leaving their 9-5 jobs in order to follow their passion?
Edwing D’Angelo: Mon frere! Create yourself a top of the line business plan and prepare yourself as well as you can in all aspects of business, live way below your means and save to launch yourself and open up to your dreams. Education within your dream career is key.

Clutch:What role has your heritage played in influencing your design aesthetic?
Edwing D’Angelo: Everything I am is due to my heritage without it I will not have the foundation and the desire to move forward every day, I feel sometimes that my ethos speak to my senses to draw and create and come up with concepts and ideas that make people wow… You need to know where you coming from to know where you going to, it is a cliché, but it’s very true.

Clutch: Designers often cite everyday life or their immediate surroundings as sources of inspiration. Where do you usually find creative insight?
Edwing D’Angelo: I usually get it from my surroundings and traveling. I can get inspired from a curtain that I saw in Venice, or storm that I saw in Bogota, or the sunset in Puerto Plata, or a beautiful girl walking down on Broadway in SoHo with a killer walk, looking at all pictures of gentlemen during the Harlem Renaissance, it comes from everywhere.

Clutch: With several well received collections under your belt and your designs being in such high demand, do you feel like you’ve achieved what you set out to do in your career?
Edwing D’Angelo: Absolutely not, I don’t kid myself, I know I still have a lot to prove within the industry, I still have a lot work before I can rest on my laurels. But that’s the beauty of this challenge, it keeps you relevant, on your toes, and always searching for that ultimate moment in one’s
career which at the end is what makes the legends who they are, the proof is in the struggle itself.

Clutch:What direction do you see the brand headed in the future?
Edwing D’Angelo: I see the brand heading into bright future by expanding an international retail presence, showcasing our collection of shoes, accessories, underwear and my all time favorite fragrances and beauty products.

For more information on Edwing D’Angelo please visit www.edwingdangelo.com.

The post Edwing D’Angelo appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

For Fall ’08 Mackage focuses on structured, but feminine fitted silhouettes infused with details inspired by looks from the Russian military. Eran Elfassy and Elisa Dahan, the duo behind the marvelous line, give traditional winter garb an urbane vixen makeover with cinched waist jackets accented wide leather belts, bell sleeves, and fiercely high collars. Even puffy jackets get sexy with bell sleeves and raccoon trim! Who knew that winter could be oh so glamorous? Whether you go for Mackage’s shearling, buttery leathers, or wool chevron print coats-you definitely won’t have to go short on style to stay warm this winter.

Mackage is available for purchase at Saks Fifth Avenue, Henri Bendel, Bloomingdales, and Neiman Marcus. For more information on Mackage please visit www.mackage.com.

The post Mackage appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

From wildly imaginative accessories (Exhibit A: those crazy shoes pictured here on Beyonce!) to sleek and modern dresses, Nicolas’s innovation and no compromise approach to design has breathed new life into the iconic brand. His work embraces a new era of design while personifying a quote made by the man himself, Cristobal Balenciaga which sums up the spirit of the house.

“A courtier must be an architect for design, a sculptor for shape, a painter for color, a musician for harmony and a philosopher of temperance.”

For fall, the Balenciaga collection took us on a fantastic joy ride that played on futuristic ideals featuring ultra shiny structured fabrics, a mix of sharp and soft lines, and body conscious silhouettes.

For more information on Balenciaga please visit www.balenciaga.com

The post Balenciaga appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

The trendy celebrity set seem to all be clamoring for creations by visionary shoe designer, Pierre Hardy. By now you’ve probably seen the photos of Rihanna, Angela Simmons and Cassie all working the same lace up stiletto at various outings. And who can blame them? With their mélange of colors and sexy peek-a-boo styling, the shoe is pure hotness! We also love the colorful plastic strap heels that Solange opted for earlier this summer and the fishnet bootie spotted on Cassie. See pierrehardy.com for more fanciful footwear.

The post The Ladies Love Pierre Hardy appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

“You need to wrap it up in peanut butter to make it appealing.”

Either way, we think the line is rather fitting for proper English blokes.

Related Article: Andre 3000 Launches Benjamin Bixby

The post Benjamin Bixby Launches at Harrods appeared first on Clutch Magazine.