Accents are hot, even hotter x2

Hola Fashion Loves,

During college I have really come to love nail polish.
I never truly got to play around with nail polish too much as a baby fashionista as I went to private Catholic School and we had uniforms, which meant "NO NAIL POLISH".

This whole not being allowed to wear nail polish during defining fashionista moments meant that I had to find other ways to express myself through fashion and beauty. Luckily, I was reintroduced to the greatness of nail polish by my very good friend Care--she taught me the importance of the accent nail and drove me and other bff CC to paint our nails as bonding sessions throughout our freshmen year at the University of Maryland. Nail painting became a sort of ritual that we did every now and then to catch up, gossip, and bond. Today this ritual continues-- my roomie Becks and I will go out and buy nail polish while we are bored and go back to out apartment to paint our nails and bond. She and I love to try out new colors, and love dressing up our ring fingers accent nails.

During my winter travel, I visited my bestie Theana, who I have known since 1st grade, and I saw her sporting not one, but two accent nails, one one her ring finger, the other on her middle finger-- I instantly took a liking to it, and had to try it! There is power in numbers, and two accent nails is super hot.

When I got home back East, the next time I painted my nails, I tried it:

Accent Nails

I  used Sephora by OPI in "Keep Me on My Mistletoes" for the two accent nails, and Revlon Colorstay in "040 Provence" for the other nails.

"Keep Me on My Mistletoes" & "040 Provence"

So try out this new nail trend for the start of 2013, its different and fashion forward, and fun-- what's more to love? Plus, you will look hot.

Love, J'Adore, Amor,

Gabriela Mercedes

2013: Roar in the New Year

2013, its finally here, we survived the end of the Mayan calendar and now we are moving onto a new year and age where fashion is taking direction from a joyous and celebratory time: The Roaring 20s.

Marchesa Spring 2013

My prediction with the upcoming release of Baz Luhrmann's film adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby and Downton Abbey being flung into the world of the Jazz Age, 1920s fashions have come into the spotlight once again and will be a driving force in fashion this upcoming year. Expect airy, sheer fabrics such as chiffon, artfully beaded and sequenced apparel, Art Deco patterns, dropped waistlines and longer necklaces for 2013-- hints of these trends can be seen on Nicole Miller and Marchesa's Spring 2013 runways.

I have already seen beautiful pieces in stores and have witnessed  the change over of shorter statement necklaces to longer playful ones in my travels this past holiday season in California. It's truly remarkable to see the changing of fashion trends right before your eyes.

Yves Saint Laurent 'Cabas ChYc' Emerald Leather Tote Bag

Another major trend this year is the color green. My personal favorite color, conjures up images of Scarlett O'Hara and represents nature, freshness, endurance and harmony-- which is just perfect for the start of the year. You can incorporate this color in your accessories such as scarves, statement leather bags in emerald, outerwear such as a peacoat or trench coat, and party dresses for your special occasions throughout the year-- by following this trend you shall surely turn heads in 2013s "it" color especially finding pieces that are reminiscent of the 20s.

French Connection 1920s Inspired Dress

So channel your inner flapper, wear feathers, glitz its up, go out there learn the Charleston, listen to Big Band music and swing your way into 2013!

Love, J'Adore, Amor,

Gabriela Mercedes

Fierce of July

Hello my Fierce Fashionistas,

Its almost the Fourth of July! Its a season of barbecues, late night parties, lazy days at the pool, and dancing the night away. Once the holiday hits, summer will officially be in full swing.

But how does one go about dressing for the fourth and make it the Fierce of July? Easy. Just look at the star spangled banner.

Fourth fashions circulate around:

GUESS Earrings, Glass Star Stud Earrings

Stars
Stars are pretty generic in a sense, but are ever important in celebrating Independence Day. On our flag they represent every state in our nation, and California and Maryland, my two personal favorite states both have their very own, along with the other 48. Incorporate stars into your outfit by finding fun jewelry in the star shape. These Guess? earrings at the right go for $25 at Macy's.



Stripes 

Sequin Stripe Tank by Loft

There are thirteen of them on our flag representing our original colonies, which California was not apart of, but alas we were a part of Spain, then Mexico then finally incorporated into the Union. North or South? Nope pure Californio. Anyway, stripes will forever be one of my favorite trends, and this just gives me another excuse to wear them. Stripes although known for being nautical, play perfectly into any fashionista's plans whether it is spent on the cape on a yacht, or at a family barbecue out west. A fun sparkling tank from the Ann Taylor Loft will definitely satisfy this trend at $44.50.

Red, White & Blue

Boyfriend roll-up shorts by the Gap

This color combo is the absolute epitomy of the Fourth of July. Use this color trio to your advantage. Color blocking, as it has been for several of the past seasons, has been very in and on trend. By color blocking reds, whites and blues you shall look like a walking Piet Modrian painting which shall be so chic. Try solid colorful shirts, skirts or shorts. These shorts run for $39.95 at the Gap and come in an array of colors and blue if red shorts aren't your cup of tea.

Also don't forget....
sparkles, lots of sparkles-- which emulates our firework filled skies!

So break out your Americana gear: cowboy hats and boots, old jean jackets, and your stars and stripes to make your fourth fierce. I know have my fedora ready.

Love, J'Adore, Amor,
Gabriela Mercedes

New Year, New Fashions

Hey Dolls!

Sorry I have literally been missing in action since forever. From having an internship in the summer at Sephora, to going straight back to school afterwards, this is the first break I have  had since Spring Break 2011!

It's a new year which means new trends. But there's a catch--There is a theme to Spring 2012 trends and fashion each trend can be added upon the other. I will explain later!

Here is the break down:

Loosely Knitted Sweaters

From cardigans to pullovers it seems like the "it" trend for this spring is a sweater that light and is not exactly meant to keep you warm, but is meant to keep you looking good. These sweaters are loosely knitted, and some have net-like appearances depending on the style or the brand.

Stripes

This is my favorite classic look. My mother says I inherited her love for stripes, and I must admit I agree. I am constantly drawn to them like a guilty pleasure--but guilty no more! Stripe patterns from thick bars, to skinny lines in complementary are all the rage this season, so stock up. The best part about stripes are that they will never go out of style thanks to lovely Gabrielle Coco Chanel who made not only the tan popular but stripes.

Boat Neck

Higher necklines, but thank God not too high, are a welcoming sign since it seems like every season necklines seem to get lower and lower. Leave more up to the imagination with a feminine and nautical neckline which is oh so like a sperry topsider ad.

Dolman Sleeves

This trend has been around for a little over a year now, but has become more prominent this season. This is special shout out to all the petite ladies out there, this is especially your go to trend.

Draped Backs

What will they do next? Cutouts, Zippers, and now draped bare backs. There are tons of pieces this spring that are all about showing off your back which is very Hilary Swank circa Million Dollar Baby.

Now for my explanation:

Spring 2012s's trend theme is "add upon" because you can add stripes upon a boatneck, or a loosely knitted sweater, or rather buy a piece that just happens to have dolman sleeves, has stripes, and is loosely knitted with a boatneck.

And Voila!

Love, J'Adore, Amor,

Gabriela Mercedes

Becoming so west coast...

Hey DOLLS!

Hola from the heart of hipster and indie fashion: Noe Valley, San Francisco!

Since I have landed on the left coast, this past saturday, I have been trying to remember what it is like to be a California girl. I am not talking about the superficial slash stereotypical California girl that other states make us out to be (you'd be surprised I have been asked if I surf, knew famous people and lived by the beach tons of times--I body surf, I have met famous people, but don't personally know them and I could drive to the beach in 15 min--but fact of the matter is not everyone does in calif.) What I am talking about is the California girl who knows the difference between good mexican food and bad. A girl that knows how to shop, but can take on the rapids of a class 5 river and do yoga.

Slowly but surely it has all been

re-clicking into place, and I am finding my inner California girl. Today I explored the city downtown, got Thai, went to my internship office, and of course went to 24th street in Noe Valley.

24th Street is every bohemian, indie and hipsters dream. It has coffee shops, and boutiques--and everything in between. This area has been a staple of my childhood ever since I can remember. I grew up walking there with my grandmother, and learned to love it as I got into my teen years. Best part? It is dog friendly!

Anyways, as I walking the streets of Noe Valley to get there, I noticed the people around me and how they are dressed. SF never ceases to amaze me with the array of fashion that is put on display-- one moment you can see a person in head to toe leather and bright blue hair, then a business clad entrepreneur, and then a hipster gingerly walking in Ray Bans. San Francisco is truly eclectic, and that is what I love about it, and it is this bohemian culture that I re-falling in love with. Once I got to 24th I went into one of my favorite boutiques called Ambiance. I went in with the intention of not purchasing anything, but let's face it, a fashionista can never do that!

A hat and ring later, I walked out of the store feeling well accessorized. I had been looking for a fedora for the longest time ever, and I found the perfect one there for 20 dollars! And then of course as I was waiting to be rung up, I begin to look at the jewelry and I find myself staring down into the glittering green jeweled eyes of a leopard ring, once I slipped that ring onto my finger, I knew I was going to get it. Oh well, what is a fashionista to do? She wants what she likes and likes what she wants.

But as I was shopping I was also spying on the employees and locals, to see what they were sporting. These zen and chic ladies can really put together an outfit flawlessly and effortlessly. The employees looked like revamped ladies from the 40s and 50s with a modern twist. The locals in and out of the store wore Tom shoes, had their hair loosely braided, wore natural makeup or eye catching red lips, lightweight scarves, and nice sweater throws. And as I analyzed this, I took a look at myself--I was wearing just that-- it is like California, or shall I say a Noe Valley Girl knows. You can take the girl from California, but not the California from the girl.

Love, J'Adore, Amor,

Gabriela Mercedes

Rain, Mist, Drizzle .::. No Rain Check Needed

Nice to see you, to see you nice,

So Autumn is officially here, and the seasons seemed like they have changed just like that!

SO... can I just say an official goodbye to long warm days and nights? With an open welcome to sweater weather--meaning that we need to break out our scarves, peacoats and other fall essentials!

Oh and it is the season of warm Starbucks again! I have gone everyday almost, I am turning into Marc Minsker :) I can't get enough of those pumpkin spice lattes!

The one thing I can't stand on the other hand is this dreary rain that has been hitting the DMV for the past 2 weeks. It has turned from gross humid rain, to cold misty drizzle. I personally prefer the latter.

But in any case, it always feels impossible to dress cute in the rain. This in fact is not impossible.

If Debbie Reynolds can pull off looking

beautiful while being down poured on, on a soundstage in Hollywood, back in 1952 in Singing in the Rain, it should be easy enough for us 58 years later. So don't put off fashion on a rain check, look cute in precipitation.

This should be your perfect rainy day outfit, which incorporates most of this fall's essentials!

Trench Coat

Oh so classy and mysterious. No need to go all out and get a long trench coat, but get one that falls to your thighs, or to your hips! Buy one in one of fall's favorite colors, you can refer to my post on Paris Fashion Week if you don't know what those colors are! You can be daring and go for a deep red or classic with neutrals, either way you will look super sophisticated. Try this one on for size, the Coffee Shop Belted Twill Long Rain Coat, it comes in a variety of colors at Target and it goes for $34.98. It has perfect in between length, so it will get the job done when you are dealing with the elements.

Scarf

Throw a fun scarf around your neck, not only does it keep your neck warm in the cold rain and wind, but it just plays up your outfit even more-- like an extra effort on such a dreary day.

Jeggings

Resist the urge to grab those sweatpants, I know you want to be comfy, but if you want to look like a million in the rain, without actually putting any effort get yourself in some jeggings. Jeggings are uber soft and comfy, and are effortless just like sweats-- but they give the illusion of effort, and look so much better!

Sperry's, Rain Boots, Boots

All three are acceptable. I love Sperry's--It comes from the inevitable Catholic School upbringing for 13 years--, I lived in them in High School, and white water raft in them, they are just so comfortable and they keep your feet dry! Rain Boots are the epitomy of rainy days, and just give off the fun vibe of "I don't care, I'll walk through this puddle...I'll even jump in it". And wearing your standard leather boots always adds a touch of class.

These elements together will make you really stand out on campus, while everyone else looks like they just rolled out of bed.

I will surely post soon about how to deal with the cold now at night when you find yourself going out.

Anyways Cheers guys and gals!

Stay fashionable slash dry!

Love, J'Adore, Amor,

Gabriela Mercedes

Make A Statement

Hello Fashionistas,

I was mulling over different things to do this fall, and it came to me: where should I go out this fall besides the usual and hitting up route one in CP?

I mean we are super uber close to our NATION'S CAPITAL! 8 miles I believe and you can see the the Washington Memorial at the very top of Byrd Stadium!Thanks Carrie for the info! And plus now that the Real Housewives of DC is on, what better way to check out the District and its night life. Of course since you want to be on point,--looking good is an absolute must! So make a statement, in a statement dress! You may have to invest some, but it will be sooooooo worth it!

But what kind of dress makes a "statement"?

Embellished LBD
Like I said in my last post, update your LBD by giving it a face lift, with different embellishments! Get this one from the French Connection, Iron Eagle Dress for $268.00.

20s Inspired
Take it back to Jazz Age by wearing a sexy frock, that shiny and glitters in the night. These dresses are loose and feel great on! The Rushes and Reeds Dress is $298.00 from FCUK.

Embellished
As you have seen from the last two trends, embellishments are totally in, and are a great way to make a statement!They make you shine and sparkle, I see no cons! This dress is another one from FCUK, they have the best dresses! The Faulks Dress goes for$368.00.

Ruffles
I love ruffles--a lot, but in moderation, but they can make any outfit look ethereal. So why not try it out on a dress when you go out? Try the Ruffled-Neck Apron Dress from BCBGeneration it is $88.00! Plus look it has pockets and a cutout back!

Color Block
When different colors are put together geometrically it just looks edgy and modern. Find this one Bluefly.com it is by La ROK, and it called the ray of light dress and goes for $179.00.

Metallic
There is reason why they call them precious metals, look expensive! This dress is by Shoshanna and can be found on Bluefly.com. It is called the Gold Abstract Brocade Dress and is $210.00.

Sheer
When sheer fabric is used on dresses to expose a little bit of skin, it adds a little mystery! So add some mystery with this dress by Max & Cleo and it is called the Black Organza and Sateen Scalloop Trim Dress and it is $79.00. Another Bluefly find!

One Shoulder
 Another trend that gives that modern twist to your going out outfit. It is also gives you the best of both worlds: a strapless dress and a strappy dress. This again is bluefly, sorry they just have tons on designer dresses for such decent prices! This one is by Romeo & Juliet Couture. The Fuchsia Stretch Taffeta One Shoulder Dress is $103.99.

GO OUT AND INVEST NOW for your statement dress, everyone should have a social life, look good having one!

I will see you in the District!

Love, J'Adore, Amor,

Gabriela Merccedes

p.s. new poll, please answer it <3

Turn Heads, Back to College 2010

Hola my fashionistas, miss me?

I just got back from Baja, and was afraid that they wouldn’t let me back in the US after practically working at the main pool in the community where our house is in Cabo. I now look like a Mexican girl, which is fine with me. Shout outs to Miguel and Israel my water aerobics instructors and to the Cabo 2010 Crew :)

Now, as the summer is winding down, it is that time again. Back to School, well now really BACK TO COLLEGE! Being a second year student at the University of Maryland, I kind of have an idea of how things work-- well sort of. But the one thing I know is fashion, and what to bring so you can turn heads once you get back on campus.What are the campus basics this fall /what are some major staples that should be in your closet? Here they are as follows!

STAPLES AND BASICS~ so worth the splurge and the investment.

 

Jeggings

 Are they jeans or are they leggings? Let's just says if jeans and leggings had a love child this would be it. They are the most comfortable things to wear if you still want to look cute and classy! It is like putting zero effort into your day but you look like you went above and beyond-- this is only true if you buy good quality jeggings. I would not recommend these if they look like actual leggings, they must look like jeans up close and from a far, but must feel soft and stretchy to the touch, and when on. I actually traveled in jeggings for my flight to Baja two weeks ago, and they were perfect-- sweatpant feel, but have the jean look. Plus kept me warm becuase they keep jets like the arctic. Why? I don't know. But in all realities jeggings are perfect for everyday use like going to class, or if you don't feel like wearing legit jeans after a night out but still want to look good. If you are looking for a good quality pair try Hollister Co.'s Jeggings in the Rinse color, I personally own these and they are amazing! They go for 29.89 now, original price was 39.50! Get them before they are gone!

Leather Tote

This tote doesn't have to be legitimately real leather, but can just look like it! So ditch your other woven totes and your boring backpacks, and add some class to your going to class look. Do your books a favor and give them a glamorous home. It really brings up your whole look up a notch. For this item, you may have to invest a bit of money because decent bags like these go for about48 dollars and up, or if you find some on sale about 29.90. But this investment is totally worth it because once you get one for one season you can always swap it out for another that you have before and use that one to match your outfit. My recommendation would to be to look at Marshall's, TJ MAx or Ross if you want to go the more Recessionista route. If not try Aldo, or Urban Outfitters. I just bought this tote for this fall, the BDG Tassel Bag. This bag goes for 58.00, but it is totally worth it! I love the tassels and all the pockets-- absolutely perf for all those gadgets and writing utensils.

Blazers

 Okay CC this is for you. Blazers are fun and are reminiscent

of prep school days. I went to a prep high school, so

blazers and I know each other quite well, even though I never wore

mine, sorry Mr. Rand...Anyways the blazers we were forced to wear were nothing compared to the ones on the market now. These are cute and wearable, and actually fit the human female body. The way you should wear a blazer is to make a casual outfit look tailored, or make a flashy dress more casual and more relaxed. American Eagle's AE Classic Blazer goes for 59.50. another investment but it is timeless,and can be used year after year.

High Waisted Shorts
Wear high waisted shorts going to class, or dress them up while going out--while it is still warm out! High waisted shorts are versatile, and look super cute on. They have a leg up on regular rise shorts because they give a casual look a dash of flair. Silence and Noise's Tailored Pleated Short, which can be found at Urban Outfitters, goes for 54.00. Urban Outfitters is primo searching space if you are looking for high waisted shorts, they also have awesome sales on these shorts.

Scarf
A basic light-weight scarf is perfect for those warm days that turn into chillier nights and mornings as autumn comes into full swing. It is like a little face lift for your outfit :) Try this scarf from American Eagle

called the AE Checkered Square Scarf, it is 19.50. Again for Reccesionista fashions, this can be found at Marshall's or Ross, for even cheaper! And for the fashionistas at UMD, the Smith School sells silk scarves at their store for 5 dollars! I

bought mine at relay for life!

Oxfords
Not the shirts, the shoes! These little guys will make your look distinguished. It is a great alternate to a ballet flats or moccasins-- they have laces! Which means they are perfect for walking to class or for random hang out sessions with friends on campus!

Best part is that there are so many to choose from, some are updated versions such as the Chelsea Crew Cut Out Oxford that goes for 58.00 at UO. (right) Or go for a more classic looking oxford like the Kimichi Blue Tear Drop Oxford, for 48.00. (left) These can be found online at urbanoutfitters.com .

Wear these with jeggings, a lightweight scarf, and shades and you will look grade A. Perfect for Noe Valley in San Francisco, where I spent much of my youth :)

Little Black Dress
Give your LBD an update with cutouts and embellishments! LBDs are perfect for going out and of course theme parties such as a little black dress party! Try BCBGeneration's Cutout- Strap Dress for 138.00.

White Dress
If you are rushing you will need a white dress if you decide to be initiated into a sorority! Or if you aren't into going GREEK, white dresses are perfect for anytime of the year if you are looking to dress up. FCUK's Cilla Dress is 83.99 and is adorable and chic!

SEE YOU GUYS BACK ON CAMPUS :)

and go out buy these staples, you'll surely have heads turning your way!

enjoy what's left of the summer <3

Love, J'Adore, Amor,

Gabriela Mercedes

POST SCRIPT: vote on the poll!

Oh say can YOU see what's in?

Hello my darling fashionistas!

Sorry I have been MIA for a while but hopefully this next blog won't disappoint! I have been working hard at work and just taking the first half the summer easy, but now it is all systems go! But how have your fashion endeavors been treating you? I know for me I have been expanding my mutual closet with my two besties from college. And along the way of course I have been thinking of topics to discuss for the upcoming semester!

What I have been noticing so far for our summer staples: 

Bandeau Tops
 They are everywhere--But I am okay with it because I love love love them! Whether it is for swim wear or to put under one of your low cut tanks, you will surely find these at all the hottest stores. This particular one you can get on sale at Hollister Co. for 3.45, it was 15.50! great buy! Recessionista style wahoo! 





Neon Colors 
Add some pop! to your life. great for swim wear, undergarments to make yourself irresistible, and tops! Just make sure you are keeping the neons to a minimum it is it okay to have a few neons together on one garment, but your whole outfit will be a 80s slash 90s horror show if you go over the top! So when wearing neons make sure to wear a neutral bottom with a neon top or vice versa! I just found this suit from Vivi Secret! I am so buying it NOW! 10.00 for both pieces! STEAL!

Tribal Prints 

 How fitting! With the World Cup in Africa, what a way to represent! Plus Catherine Malandrino is also favoring this look too, just look at her campaigns! Wearing this you will look exotic and diverse, which will give you the "where has this girl been?" vibe--oh the mystery! This another one those styles that you must balance out-- if you don't it could quite a bit chaotic! Forever 21 does this shirt perfectly at just 12.90 too! 

 Florals 

As seen on the catwalks of Marc Jacobs for his Resort 10 collection for Marc by Marc Jacobs. Florals have seem to invaded the fashion scene for the past couple seasons for springtime wear and summer. It is sexy and feminine and at least for me calls me back to simpler times of the 20s and 30s, especially if the florals are printed on light wispy fabrics! But Marc Jacobs goes for a more bold approach which is perfect update for an old favorite!

 

 

 

 

 

 

White, Ivory, Off-White,Light Grey, Cream 

These colors--or are they colors at all?-- Are perfect for the summer! Go crazy polishing up your look by incorporating these colors into your wardrobe! Yves Saint Laurent's runway for Spring-Summer 2010 was filled with crisp whites. Emulate this by going for sheer, wispy, lacy, flouncy, or woven fabrics. Or stick to linens and silk, you can't possibly go wrong! This top by one of my fave brands Silence and Noise, and is fun because it has zipper in the front ( once of my current obsessions--exposed zippers!), you can find it for 38 dollars at Urban Outfitters! I'd say its worth it! Best thing is you can experiment with this shirt--wear untucked for a more relaxed feel or tuck it in with a high waisted skirt that hugs your curves, the results can be impressive!
 

Exposed Backs, Cutouts 

Get a breath a fresh air! This cami is flouncy and airy--and it shows some skin which is what the summer is all about! This top is so versatile you can dress it down with shorts, or up by tucking it into some cute tap shorts and heels! This tops goes for 54 dollars at UO, and it is by Silence and Noise, (I am telling you by the end of the summer my whole closet is going to be Silence and Noise! I can't get enough!).
 

 

 

 

Ruffles 

From Marc Jacobs to Forever 21 and UO this look has also been seen everywhere! Which is perfect for us fashionistas! It is so girly and fun! Find ruffles made out of lace, sheer fabrics or in prints! My personal favorite ruffle shirt is from Urban Outfitters, and... you guessed it is by by Silence and Noise!

These are my personal picks for summer 2010 and for all possible adventures that lie ahead!

What not to do: wear a bikini top under your top, if you are no where near a swimming pool or an ocean or some type of body of water! I understand if you just got done swimming or whatever, but don't sport this around the mall or going out to eat! I recently started working in retail at the mall and I constantly see this-- it is horribly tacky! DON'T DO IT! resist por favor!

All in all, enjoy your 4th of JULY! I can't believe its that time again already! And remember on the fourth to show off your new fashion finds, there are a lot of photo opts ;) Oh and please try incorporate some of the summer trends stated above, you will be the envy of your barbeque!

Love, J'Adore, Amor,

Gabriela Mercedes