Photo: jcrewaholics.com

by Renae Virata

Did you notice a little theme going in these last blogposts?  Well, fall is definitely here in the world of fashion, but many of our thermometers are still showing summer temps.  Luckily seeing all those new fall items that you think you can’t wear yet will help you take inventory of what you’ll need when the forecast starts showing truer signs of cooler weather.

So one way to make the transition between seasons now is by wearing clothes that straddle both summer and fall.  Let’s start with cardigans! You know we love talking about layers at WeareverTheWeather.com, so we can’t think of a better place to start.

Our favorite cardigans are short-sleeved with a little heft: They’re not quite thick but not paper-thin either.  They have texture, bold color, and fabulous details like embellishments, cool collars, or interesting plackets.  The best part is that you can wear them as light jackets to work or dress up a tank and skirt combo quickly.  Experiment with shorts, tights, and your favorite wedges or booties.  As the temperature drops, add a long sleeve tee, blouse, or button-down.  These combos will also add more dimension to your outfit and give you even more outfit options.  No more saying you have “nothing to wear!”

Here are a few of the ones we found that fit the bill.

Click on an item to learn more.  Then start creating your own fall looks with up-to-the-minute and right-for-your-weather pieces by clicking on “My Stylist” above. Enter your location and occasion and let My Stylist do the rest.

A little sweeter and in a cool mint green. Yum!

How scholarly and cozy at the same time is this?!

Totally rock-n-roll.

Cropped and soft with puffy sleeves.

It’s the last hurrah for the bride and a chance for all her best girlfriends to get together.   Bachelorette parties (or stagettes elsewhere) vary according to the type of activities in which you will be partaking.  But you can be sure that it will be a time to let everything out and to have a great time!

Have fun with color and be creative.  This is your time to shine as a the hot group of girls that you are!

Click on an item to learn more: Esprit Tank; Esprit City Shorts; Report Randolph Sandals

Click on an item to learn more: Arden B Cutout Tunic Dress; Martinez Valero Ono Pumps

Click on an item to learn more: TIBI Caftan Tunic; Esprit Leggings; Crocs Pixie

Hey, Travelistas! Wanna know what to wear for the weather? Just click on My Stylist and type in your location, date, and an occasion and let My Stylist do the rest. Join us on Facebook and Twitter for everything fashion and travel from WeareverTheWeather.com!

Photo credit: NOLA Arts District

by Renae Virata

Leave it to New Orleans to provide a supercool (literally) tradition like White Linen Night!  When there was no air conditioning way back when, merchants got together and held a block party around dusk to night to encourage people to come out, sample wares, shop, eat, drink, and socialize.  Why white linen?  It’s light, airy, and doesn’t absorb the sun like darker colors do, helping people keep cool as they hung out.  Today, the tradition (which takes place in NOLA’s Warehouse Arts District) continues the first week of August each year and with more of an emphasis on the arts.  Houston’s Heights area even has their own version that plays perfectly into the historical and walkable area’s charm.

Do you have to wear white linen, though?  White, probably.  Linen, no.  You don’t want to be left out! And it’s fun to see the sea of white as you stroll the streets with friends.  Here are some outfit examples and tips to make your White Linen Night experience fun and comfortable.

Click on an item to learn more and buy: Esprit Linen / Cotton Dress; Delia’s Ursula Belt; Coconuts Jeweled Sandals;

Click on an item to learn more and buy: Daytrip Layered Vest; Isabella Oliver Essential White Tank; Work Custom Jeans; Crocs Tamilita Flats

Click on an item to learn more and buy: Signorelli Colorful Feathers Tank; Arden B Cut-Off Shorts; Mia Pegasus Sandal

Tips:

- Wear flats or comfortable wedges / platforms.  You will be doing a lot of walking, so also make sure your shoes won’t nip your feet after a few hours.

- Don’t limit yourself to wearing just a white dress – although it IS a great excuse to!  Get creative and find all-white looks you may not have thought of before.

- Many people see this event as an excuse to dress up just a bit…what we called polished but relaxed.  Try a white capri and cropped jacket, white shorts and a cute knit top.

- Accessorize with some punches of color!  A colorful belt, fun jewelry or different shoes will help break up your all-white look.

- Keep cool…Bring a fan – hand-held electric (I’m serious!) or a cute manual one – and drink plenty of water, especially if you plan to do some drinking.  You will be surrounded by body heat galore in addition to the hot and humid weather.

Hey, Travelistas! Wanna know what to wear for the weather? Just click on My Stylist and type in your location, date, and an occasion and let My Stylist do the rest. Join us on Facebook and Twitter for everything fashion and travel from WeareverTheWeather.com!

Honolulu is an ideal getaway anytime of year.  Besides the fabulous blue waters, the insane beaches, friendly locals, and no shortage of fun things to do, style in Honolulu is just as easy and breezy as island life is.  Everywhere you go, on the streets, in the bars, or on the beach, you will find an expression of casual that runs the gamut thanks to an island culture of “take it easy” and an interesting parade of stylish visitors from all over the world.

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Vacationers from all over the world visit Honolulu bringing with them their own local flavor and personal style.   Current trends you’d find back home all have their own island adaptations.  You can also find a plethora of tourist garb like Hawaiian shirts and dresses, leis, and plumeria hair accessories that look just right any time of day.  In other words, you can be as decked out, as simple, or as touristy as you feel comfortable.

Since the weather is wonderfully temperate, especially in the shade and with lots of breezes, you can comfortably wear light layers, accessories such as scarves and booties, lots of jewelry, and pants.  Don’t feel like you have to relegate your packing list to just sundresses, bathing suits and cover-ups (although you ARE on an island vacation – so feel free to relax your wardrobe, too!).

Other tips

• A fashionable wide-brimmed hat is fabulous on the beach or on the streets.
• A crossbody bag is easier on your back for a long day of shopping, walking, and touring.
• Show respect for restaurateurs and their guests by covering up indoors.  It’s a good idea to bring an extra top or cover-up in case the one you come to the beach with gets soaked (it happens!).
• A stroll on Kuhio or Kalakaua Avenues is a lot more enjoyable in a comfortable pair of sandals, flats, or cute street sneakers.
• If you plan to be a little more adventurous, be sure to bring sturdy sneakers for a hike up Diamond Head.
• Bring some light water shoes for the beach- Waikiki has some rocky areas in even the shallowest parts of its waters.
• Stylish layers are perfect for a sightseeing tour or a day of shopping.  Try the vest as an alternate cover up.

Hey, Travelistas! Wanna know what to wear for the weather? Just click on My Stylist and type in your location, date, and an occasion and let My Stylist do the rest. Join us on Facebook and Twitter for everything fashion and travel from WeareverTheWeather.com!

Click on each item to learn more: Vest, Delia’s $19.50; Essential tank, Isabella Oliver, $58.65; City shorts, Isabella Oliver, $155; Crocs wedge sandal; Crossbody bag, $68

Click on each item to learn more: Knit tunic, Arden B, $39; Cropped leggings, Esprit, #39.50; T-strap sandals, The Buckle, $49; Tote, Jessica Simpson, $49.99

Click on each item to learn more: Tube dress, The Buckle, $38; Dolman sleeve hoodie, Delia’s, $33.50; Platform sandals, $99.99; Raffia clutch, Global Elements, $34.99

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The perfect time of year since this is Honolulu’s dry season.  Unlike the US West Coast, surfers and bathers play and swim freely in the ocean since water temps are in the 80s!  Humidity, temperature and rainfall are moderated by it’s mid-Pacific location so expect good hair and a welcome sprinkling of rain here and there.  Winds from the mountains can bring some wind, so prepare for cool breezes on the beach on some days.

Rainfall is more common but only averages 2.5 inches monthly in October and November.

November and December are the rainiest months, averaging almost 4 inches per month.  Rainfall slowly decreases to 2 inches then 1 inch in each of April and May.  Water temps only go down 5 inches, making Honolulu a great winter getaway during the holidays!

East Coast-style by Gabrielle Union. Photo credit: FabSugar.com

by Halee Watel

After what seems like an eternity of slaving over tests, papers and then finals, graduation can seem like a relief to most. But the stress is not over—the question still remains. What to wear?

East Coast

Schools on the East coast are notorious for their competitive academics. Like the concentration of smarts, these schools are also notorious fashion hubs. Students look as good as their GPA’s. And just because they’ve just finished a round of finals does not mean that its time to relax. Au contraire, these scholars take their graduation style seriously and so should the attendees.

Whether the commencement ceremony is indoors or outdoors, the perfect dress is key.  When shopping, think “polished.” You’re not trying to make a Lady Gaga-esque statement. You want to look good. A solid, or subtle-print strapless dress is perfect for under a gown or in the audience. It is cool enough to wear under the sun and can be paired with a light sweater or wrap for an indoor procession. If you would rather pair the pieces of your outfit, try a cropped blazer and fitted skirt.

The South. Michelle Obama. Photo credit: Firenze Jewels

The South

This unique style Mecca has laid claim to the charming sundress and necessary neckpiece: pearls. These graduations are typically not as formal as schools on the East, and many have their ceremonies outdoors. Graduates and attendees alike: pay attention to the weather! Nothing is more miserable than roasting under a gown and ruining an otherwise stunning outfit. Try light fabrics with few layers to ensure that you stay comfortable and fabulous during these sometime lengthy ceremonies.  Avoid layering.

In continuing with southern style, don’t be afraid to try a hat. A colored, straw hat or a straw-colored hat with a band or light scarf is instantly elegant and classy. Just be sure that 1. you can still see the stage 2. It does not hit your neighbor and 3. If you have to take it off, your hair is hat proof.

West Coast. Anne Hathaway. Photo credit: FabSugar.com

West Coast

When “Cali Style” meets commencement ceremony, graduates and attendees alike have the luxury of dressing up or down for the occasion. A sundress, wrap dress, or tunic are all appropriate.  To prepare for cooler temperatures and wind-chill, pair with a sweater or scarf. For an edgy look, pair a fitted blazer with cropped shorts.

Absolutely Necessary Accessory: Sunglasses

Wherever the graduation, you will be outside at one point in time. Sunglasses make any day-look instantly stylish, and if you are blessed with watching or graduating in sunny weather, great shades are key. Find a pair that do not overwhelm your face and compliment your cheeks and nose. If you find your current pairs are a loose, gently bend the ends of the arms (pieces that rest on your ears) inward. This tightens their grip on your head, and they wont slip or slide.

Hey, Travelistas! Wanna know what to wear for the weather? Just click on My Stylist and type in your location, date, and an occasion and let My Stylist do the rest. Join us on Facebook and Twitter for everything fashion and travel from WeareverTheWeather.com!

Photo credit | HelloNashville.com

Being the Country Music Capital of the world, it is no surprise that Nashville culture and style pivots around music, from country to blues to rock and everything in between.  Understated charm with all the modern fixings are what make Nashville style its own.  Take a cue from the Music City’s more lovingly known misnomer “NashVegas,” and you’ll immediately know what we’re talking about.

“Nashville is infinitely more progressive in style than many people realize, and the mostly temperate weather gives every fashionista a chance to dispel the myth that everyone here owns a bedazzler!” notes Levy’s store manager Adrienne Scarborough, who describes Nashville style as “classic meets couture meets stage sensibilities.”

So no matter where you go in Nashville, it’s never a bad thing to have a little fun with what you wear no matter what you’re doing.  Jordan Christy, author of How to Be a Hepburn in a Hilton World says Nashville style is “hipster meets country meets chic.”

Photo credit | LineDancing.ch

Weather in Nashville

Contrary to how it sounds, Nashville sits just at the edge of the humid subtropical climate that stretches from Texas to Virginia (pretty much the US South) characterized by hot, humid summers and cool winters.  Being inland in this type of climate, Nashville enjoys “true seasons”: orange in the fall, green in the spring and summer, and crisply white in the winter.

Summertime can be quite warm and almost humid, so light layers will get you through a Nashville day and night of sightseeing and bar-hopping.

February and March is “an odd time seasonally,” remarks Christy.  ”Most people’s wardrobes are caught between winter and spring.”

Winter and spring also tend to have the most rain in Nashville, so keep an umbrella or warm trench handy.

Nashville

What to wear in Nashville

Hanging Out | Make it playful!  Pair a cute casual knit or woven shirtdress with classic cowboy boots or colorful flats.  Or wear a classic pair of straight-legged jeans with kitten heels, knit vest and slim long-sleeve tee.

Professional | Keep it conservative.  In a more formal setting, wear a modern pant or skirt suit in navy, brown, beige, or black.  Wear a fun shirt underneath for extra panache, accessorize with scarves, vests, and fun but moderate jewelry (try a pendant necklace or a great pearl choker!), and don’t forget a great pair of shoes!  They’ll listen to what you have to say but will appreciate your stylish taste. For business casual, try on a cardigan in a fun animal print or bright color and pair with straight-legged seasonless wool pants or dark trouser jeans with heels.

Nightlife | Jeans will take you anywhere in Nashville, and going out is no exception!  Nashville wardrobe stylist Chris Harston’s picks: “The perfect party dress or skinny jeans accessorized with statement boots and jacket, statement handbag, and a great platform shoe or pump.”

Trends | Hands down by all of our experts: Hats!  ”Hats remain popular because they simplify everything,” explains Christy.  For girls, it means not having to spend 45 minutes fixing your hair just so…Every style from the newsboy to the beanie is accepted and embraced!  You’ll see hats fade with the cold weather; they are more of a winter accessory.”

Also, patterned tights, spring leathers, loads of color, and, of course, BOOTS of all sorts.

Carrie Underwood. Photo credit | WireImage.com

Miley Cyrus. Photo credit | BDB Photos

Photo credit | vox.com

Green Hills Mall | This “fashion and lifestyle” mall offers more than 100 specialty stores and eatieries including your favorites.  Look for Nordstrom to open in Fall of 2011! | MAP

Cool Springs Galleria | A Nashville favorite and worth the drive out to historical Franklin, also chock full of your malls favorites in a growing, bustling town | MAP

Hillsboro Village | Hands down one of the coolest places to be with coffee shops, unique eateries, and especially the funky stores like Pangea, Posh Boutique (great shoes!), and A Thousand Faces where you can find everything you need and shop in a charming, walkable thoroughfare near Vanderbilt University | MAP

by Renae Virata

There’s a pretty good reason why they call it “Hot-Lanta.”  Atlanta is hot and humid much of the year, but more so it has become such a hotbed for urban couture style it should be called Haute-Lanta.  While cool southern gentility reminiscent of Designing Women is still a mainstay in many parts of the city, the rise and prestige of the Southern hip-hop scene as well as the cosmopolitan scene a la The Real Housewives of Atlanta has given way to a new generation of equally modern urban designers such as Mychael Knight of Project Runway fame and a heightened sense of style and fashion in the city.

What to Wear and Pack | Style Inspirations | Weather | Resources | Shopping

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“Atlanta has definitely come a long way over the past ten years,” says Chenelle Parker. “Atlanta has become the place to be, to live, and to shop especially for young blacks.  It is seen as the place where African Americans are thriving and are hugely successful.”

With that in mind, a little more sophistication is in order and goes a long way in Atlanta, so it’s never inappropriate to break out your favorite statement pieces, even to go to the grocery store. Instead of flats, for example, opt for a pair of low wedges or kitten heels in a schnazzy look or color.

Great for lunch, a concert or just hanging out.  Click on an item to learn more: Arden B Cold Shoulder Top $39; Arden B Cuffed Cropped Jeans $49; BC Metallic Flat $45

“I would say the overall theme for Atlanta is street chic,” adds Parker.

According to a number of young and mid-professionals, businesswomen tend to lean more toward the casual end of the spectrum.  Slacks, for example, are favored over skirts for most women.  But if you do decide to wear a skirt, except in the most extreme heat of summer, err on the side of conservative and slip on a pair of sheer hose.  In true So-Co (Southern Cosmopolitan!) fashion, make sure you have at least two or three stylish pumps in your wardrobe or at least low heels.  Like most hot and humid cities, offices in Atlanta are borderline freezing with the A/C turned up.  It’s always a good idea to bring a cardigan or fun jacket that will work for the office.

Click on an item to learn more: Sena Cut-out Dress $385; Arden B Metallic Sexy Heel $49

To top it all off, make sure that your hair is coiffed and your nails done.  They’ll go a long way toward creating a polished look and keep you in line with the new wave of fashion in Atlanta.

Click on an item to learn more: Isabella Oliver Sexy Blazer $142.50; Arden B Ruffle Front Camisole $49; Max Studio Wide-leg Pants $38; Max Studio Peep-Toe Pumps $128

One thing for people to remember when visiting Atlanta according to local wardrobe stylist Karen Hughes, owner of StyleYOUniversity.com: “It is not the South.  It is a true metropolitan area.  It’s like New York or LA.”

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Temperatures in Atlanta during the summer keep true to its nickname “Hot-Lanta.”  But the humid subtropical climate drives temps higher when humidity this time of year rises to about 80 – 90 percent.

Temps start to drop once the holidays appear.  Atlanta is higher in elevation than most Southern cities, so temps are mild but cooler.

January is the coldest month in Atlanta, but once in a while a warm front will raise the temps into the low 60s or an Arctic air mass will lower temps into the teens , so be prepared!  You might see snow, though it is rare.  Rainfall is heaviest during this time of the year and through March.

It doesn’t rain nearly as much in Atlanta as it does in its southern coastal sister cities, but March is one of the rainiest months of the year with about 5 inches average throughout the month.

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Ann Roth Shoes | Designer Ann Roth describes her shoes as “nostalgic, whimsical luxury.” Espadrilles, ballet flats, heels, and customer-designed footwear – unique and in Atlanta!  The perfect complement to an Atlanta ensemble.

Mychael Knight | Third season competitor on Project Runway, he is back in Atlanta working on his next collection of street chic designs.

Anne Barge | Her wedding gown designs won the Today Show Throws a Wedding Competition in 2003 and has made an international presence in Saks Fifth Avenue stores around the world.

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Crave Atlanta

Atlanta Design

Hey, Travelistas! Wanna know what to wear for the weather? Just click on My Stylist and type in your location, date, and an occasion and let My Stylist do the rest. Join us on Facebook and Twitter for everything fashion and travel from WeareverTheWeather.com!

Rodeo barrel rider. Photo credit: ESPN.com

by Renae Virata

Houston is the fourth largest city in the nation and home to big industries like energy, healthcare, manufacturing, transportation, and aerospace, which draw people from all four corners of the world.  It’s hard to ignore all the influences that make up the Bayou City’s style culture being a relatively up and coming “place to be” on the US map.  Indeed, a continually rising arts and fashion scene with big names like Chloe Dao, Miguel Rodriguez and Laura Mercier Cosmetics brings to the world scene what Houstonians have been for decades: modern, stylish, and balanced between classic conservatism and casual funk.

Houston Weather | What to Wear | What to Pack | Style Inspirations | Shopping | Online Resources

Polished but not too made up.  Simple but interesting.

“Houston style is uptown, dressy, and individualistic,” explains Karen Steele, President of Creative Outsourcing in Houston.  “Houston style is influenced by Southern sensibility which is combined with New York and European couture.”

Sari Motley, president of SariMotley Cosmetics, a Houston makeup and skincare line, also says that “Houston style feels casual yet functional.  Being comfortable for the climate and for an event you are attending is important.” Motley’s personal style of basics from places like J. Crew and the Gap adorned with funky scarves and legwear, a great pair of kicks, and statement jewelry reflect the fashionable yet functional vibe that most Houstonians prefer for casual wear.

Weather is probably one of the biggest natural influences on Houston style.  Known for the hot, humid summers that can make it almost unbearable to go out (except in a bikini to the beach or to the pool, of course!), Houston women must take care to prepare for the stickiness both to their skin and hair during that time of year.  Check out our post from Sari Motley on Houston makeup and skincare tips.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/103/310141501_6dff398925.jpg

Houston weather

The first thing people think of when they think of Houston weather is hot and humid, humid, humid!  But that’s only a few months in the summer.  The rest of the year is characterized by mild temperatures and much less humidity. Spring, fall, and even winter, for those of you trying to escape the REAL throes of a bitter winter, are an escape in Houston because the weather is near-perfect.

Houston has what is known as a humid subtropical climate.  Desert heat from the southwest in Mexico combined with the moisture from the Gulf of Mexico are what give Houston its characteristic weather.

During the summer, humidity makes the average 90-degree-and-above weather feel more like 100.  There is little relief from the light breezes that flow through the city, so air conditioning is a must wherever you go.

January is the coldest month in Houston with an average low of 41 degrees and an average high of 63 degrees.  Rain is spread out over the winter months and snow falls only once every three or four years on average.  You can totally expect a stretch of days in the high 60s to high 70s at any given time, too, so be sure to check My Stylist for the latest weather and what to wear for it!

What to wear in Houston

The minute the thermometer hits 60 degrees, Houstonians happily dig out their favorite boots, coats and scarves while they are out and about doing during the winter months pretty much what they do year-round.

Most of the winter in Houston does not require heavy layering.  You won’t be doing much walking unless you’re at the park or at the new City Centre window shopping, and the heat can be turned up so much once your inside a building that you’ll quickly shed your outerwear (of which you will pretty much only need one – a good, medium-weight wool peacoat, for example).

A good pair of well-fitted jeans will always be a favorite but casual wear in Houston has evolved.  More and more people rely on fun skirts with tights, vintage-inspired dresses, and even winter shorts (check out the fabulous tweed ones they have at Zara) for everyday.

If you’re here on business, a seasonless wool pantsuit (our favorite is from Banana Republic), a more interesting take on the crisp button-down, and a fabulous pair of patent heels will work great.  You will always get positive feedback if you are well-heeled in Houston, so feel free to experiment with a little color and a bit of edge.  Animal-print cardigans in a casual setting will also add a little panache to your work wardrobe.

Speaking of which, boots are hot in Houston, and we’re not just talking about the kind you wear to the Rodeo.  What’s hot now? Simple, flat boots with buckle and strap details in mushroom gray or saddle brown – the perfect second-tier neutrals to add a little oomph to a sort-of winter wardrobe.  It will rain, so rain boots with leggings or colorful tights to run around or even to hang out at your favorite coffee shop in are everywhere (try Hunter – they come in a wide array of colors and patterns to suit any taste).

At night, things are a little dressier.  Jeans used to be the standard, but in just the past few years, fitted dresses, skirts, and a general interest in glamming it up have taken over.  Many attribute this change to the continuously evolving night scene and prosperity in Houston despite the current economic conditions elsewhere.  In any case, going out has become a lot more fun!

Like most places that enjoy great weather year-round and a lot of sunny days, Houstonians love their colors!  While other cosmopolitan cities stick to the neutrals, colors dominate H-town any season.  Bright mustard, royal purple, and hot pink are still hot and add that element of funky to simple pieces like turtlenecks, leggings, and cardigans.

One last thing: Don’t forget your accessories!  It’s the simplest way to make a simple outfit totally pop.  Mix it up or wear a statement piece like a funky cocktail ring or a chunky necklace. They’ll go a long way in your Houston wardrobe and garner quite a few complements (and envious looks) wherever you go.

Outfit generated by WeareverTheWeather.com (Houston, 09/21/10, Hanging Out).  Click here to learn more about each item.

Outfit generated by WeareverTheWeather.com (Houston 09/10/10, Nightlife).  Click here to learn more about each item.

Chloe Dao | Winner of season two of the former Bravo hit TV show Project Runway and owner of fabulous Rice Village boutique Lot 8.

Miguel Rodriguez | An avant-garde and young up-and-coming couture designer from Mexico who opened his first couture studio in Houston at the tender age of 20.

Laura Mercier | Based in Greater Houston, this renowned brand of amazing makeup can be found in 800 stores in 27 countries.

Village Arcade | One of Houston’s oldest and best-loved shopping destinations since the 1930s with just the right balance of favorites like Gap, Banana, Urban Outfitters, and Victoria’s Secret and fabulous local boutiques like Langford Market, Method, and Chloe Dao’s Lot 8.

19th Street in the Historic Heights | A street with a small-town feel is fraught with a sprinkling of fabulous boutiques like Contents (affordable but awesome clothes), Retropolis (best place for cowboy boots and vintage finds), and Jubilee for fun accessories and housewares. | MAP

Westheimer Rd in Montrose | A steady stream of vintage, resale, and modern boutiques like Duo, Blackbird Trading Company, Buffalo Exchange, and Wish are a favorite shopping for the contemporary and eclectic alike who appreciate the cozy, walkable strip.  Great places to eat, grab a drink (try Anvil, a true mixology place!), and get a tattoo!

Houston Galleria | World renowned shopping venue with over 375 stores and restaurants and a year-round ice skating rink includes favorites like Gucci, Chanel, Carolina Herrera, Tiffany’s, Neiman’s, Nordstrom, Saks, Macy’s, Banana, Urban Outfitters, Charlotte Russe, and Club Monaco.

Harwin Strip | The best-kept shopping secret in Houston to find discounted jewelry, handbags, and clothes to rival any New York street corner.  Visit Park Imports for the latest in trendy jewelry, Charming Charlie, or Roop Sari for fabulous Indian garb. | MAP

FashionSavedMyLife.com

Hey, Travelistas! Wanna know what to wear for the weather? Just click on My Stylist and type in your location, date, and an occasion and let My Stylist do the rest. Join us on Facebook and Twitter for everything fashion and travel from WeareverTheWeather.com!

by Laura Milligan

Average High Temperature for February 16, in New Orleans, LA: 65 degrees Farenheit

Average Low: 46 degrees Farenheit

Mardi Gras this year falls on Tuesday, February 16, which means you’ve got to fast forward through your Super Bowl and Valentine’s Day outfits and start planning for one of the biggest party days of the season.

Below we’ll give tips for two types of Mardi Gras outfits: one for parades (we’re focusing on New Orleans, Mobile and other U.S. parades) and one that works for house parties. If you’ve been to Carnival celebrations in Europe or South America, please leave your tips on what to wear to those parades in the comments section below!

What to wear to a Mardi Gras parade

New Orleans is a fashionable but casual town that normally eschews high heels and tight clothing for boots, sandals, jeweled flats and super-soft tees. Women in NOLA love accessorizing, but if you’re going to a parade, you won’t have to worry about bringing your own jewelry to the party — you’ll be showered in enough beads, novelty items, flowers, and plastic rings to make you look like a queen.

The important thing to remember when dressing for a Mardi Gras parade is comfort and practicality. Here are our best tips:

• Wear flat, closed-toe shoes. People are going to be stomping and jumping all over your poor feet, so wear your Converse, TOMS or flat boots to protect yourself. You’re also going to be standing and walking around for hours — and we do mean hours — so wear socks or liners to prevent blisters. Pack band-aids just in case.
• Don’t wear short skirts. You’re just asking to get groped, especially if you slip or reach too high for beads. Layer leggings underneath short shorts and skirts to be safe and comfy.
• Wear washable items. It’s a safe bet that whatever you wear on Mardi Gras is going to get dirty. At some point during the day or night, at least one of the following is going to spill on you: beer, mud, frosting, jello shots, daiquiris, and funnel cake or beignets. It’s okay to wear a fitted t-shirt and your Saturday morning jeans — you’re going to be covered in brightly colored beads anyway!
• Bring a windbreaker with pockets. It often rains or at least drizzles in New Orleans, and if you want extra protection from sloshing beer, stuff a windbreaker into your bag.
• Choose a crossbody, zip-top bag. For security’s sake and to keep your hands free, wear a crossbody zip-top bag that has room for all your stuff, but make sure you leave valuables locked up at home.
• Bring plastic sunglasses. Opt for cheap plastic sunglasses to protect your face from flying beads rather than a baseball cap, which can limit your vision in a bad way.
• Don’t be afraid to get a little crazy. Mardi Gras brings out everyone’s kooky side, so if you’ve been dying to wear those turquoise knee socks, paint your face and wear glittery fake eyelashes, this is the day to mix and match your crazy accessories. Just make sure everything you put on is comfortable enough to leave on all day.

What to wear to a Mardi Gras party:

Because we’re not all lucky enough to live in a place where Mardi Gras is an official state holiday, or where you can even find a Mardi Gras parade, you might have to settle for a house party. Here’s how to get into the spirit:

• Go for gold, green and purple: It’s tacky, but it’s also the tricolor tradition for Mardi Gras. You can always wear green or purple and accessorize with gold jewelry or metallic shoes.
• Embrace impractical accessories: Since you’re going to be inside, or at least near chairs, you can wear your high-heeled boots or ridiculous hat, and then take them off whenever you get uncomfortable.
• Consider the invitation: Some Mardi Gras parties are actually black-tie, or at least cocktail attire. Make sure you know the dress code before you go.
• Act like it’s New Year’s: For dressier parties, apply the New Year’s rule: start with a cocktail or black-tie basic (like an LBD) and then add blingy accessories and fun shoes to make it fun.

Hey, Travelistas! Wanna know what to wear for the weather? Just click on My Stylist and type in your location, date, and an occasion and let My Stylist do the rest. Join us on Facebook and Twitter for everything fashion and travel from WeareverTheWeather.com!

Diane von Furstenberg S/S'10; Photo: Style.com

by Laura Milligan

We live in Houston, where it’s been 70 nearly all week (atypical, but not unheard of). It’s almost warm enough to wear looks inspired by one of our favorite spring shows (Diane von Furstenberg, left), but not quite. Resortwear has been selling  online and in the department stores since Christmastime, and places like Bergdorf Goodman are already showcasing new spring lines. So what do you do if you’ve caught spring fever but it’s still bitterly cold and snowing where you live?

Because it’s the middle of January and not yet transition weather, you’re going to have to get creative with your color choices, layering and accessorizing. Beyond layering last spring and summer’s floral and neon pieces under chunky black sweaters and over tights, rethink your neutrals. Opt for plum, steel gray, and khaki, plus metallics which will instantly add light and movement to your heavy ensembles.

Tights are also a good vehicle for adding true brights to your outfit without sacrificing warmth. We like Anthropologie’s Icy Seas Tights ($28) and the We Heart Colors collection of nylon/lycra Microfiber tights ($12.50), which come in 51 colors like turquoise and neon yellow.

Switch out your wool or cashmere scarf for a playful spring scarf, even if it’s not quite as warm. Wear an extra layer underneath your coat to accommodate if you’re still chilly.

Other easy ways to indulge your spring fever: digging out denim in lighter washes; wearing lycra trouser socks with your chunky spring sandals (which was so well done at Burberry for S/S ‘10); and taking a cue from Kate Hudson’s recent red carpet looks: frosted lips with pristine white dresses.

Hey, Travelistas! Wanna know what to wear for the weather? Just click on My Stylist and type in your location, date, and an occasion and let My Stylist do the rest. Join us on Facebook and Twitter for everything fashion and travel from WeareverTheWeather.com!