by Renae Virata

Usually, we pick out what to wear to please ourselves and (admit it!) others.  But today is one of those days where what you wear makes a statement.  In support of National Wear Red Day from the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute to bring awareness of heart disease, we have some red looks that are sure to look great and support a great cause.Mango dress, $59.99; Mango jacket, $179.99; Mango convertible purse, $34.99; Mango platforms, $109.99.

Fergie Beatnik platform heels, $89.99.

ModCloth Heart tee, $27.99 (and perfect for some Valentine’s Day cheer)

Photo | Sports Then and Now

Are you ready for some football?!  It’s that time of year, once again, to gather ’round the tube with your favorite sports fans to watch the Giants versus the Pats.  But even if your team isn’t battling it out on the field, you can still look your best wherever you watch the game.

Tips for Super Bowl Style

• Don’t be afraid to rock a team jersey like the guys.  These days they make fabulously slim-fitting, ladies jerseys.  Try Touch by Alyssa Milano or go to NFL.com and shop their selection of Pats and Giants gear.

Touch by Alyssa Milano Patriots slim-fitting tee, $29.99

• Maybe you don’t want to spend money on an actual team look but want to let everyone know who you’re backing?  Sport their colors!  Tru Colors, started by two Southern sorority girls where football is BIG, has a great line of team color-based silhouettes that you can wear anytime.

Tru Colors apparel, Stafford dress in Giants colors, $78

Outfit Ideas

• Leggings/skinny jeans, jersey (if it covers your you-know-what), casual boots, flats, wedges
• Simple dress in team color, scarf in other team color, tights, boots
• Jeans, jersey, chic street sneakers
• Thick denim shorts, team tee, long-sleeve tee underneath, casual boots if it’s cold, wedges if it’s warmer with no tights

Photo | Marie Claire

by Sinta Jimenez

Dressing for Thanksgiving is one of those occasions where one has to think realistically as a major consideration for stuffing, mashed potato and turkey related bloat must be made! There’s nothing that makes an outfit looks worse than discomfort, and I am never comfortable when I can’t eat what I want or if something feels too tight. Thankfully most clothing during the holiday season isn’t revealing and definitely meant to be cozy. I love traditional classics, especially for Thanksgiving and Christmas, but there are always ways to bring fashion inspiration to tried and true coordinates.

Sinta’s Top Tips

• Thanksgiving isn’t Christmas, so don’t pull out the fancy tartans, bright whites and hunter greens yet.
• Do think of autumn colors as a way to say goodbye to Autumn — warm purples, amber, gold, orange.
• November can be downright frigid in some parts of the country so definitely stay warm – another reason why if you haven’t invested in some good cashmere for a warm but semi-formal option yet, go on and do so this year. Silk is light and breathable for the summer but also warm as a layer beneath a knit for the colder months, so again, if you haven’t invested in a silk blouse yet do so now!
• Low waist skirts, loose or drop waist dresses are perfect to give you the extra comfy room after dinner
• Lots of people go home for Thanksgiving and it’s a time of reunion. If you’ll be going out the same night as dinner with old high school buddies think forward for what would double as a going-out coordinate.

If your family and friends are doing it ultra-casual, try pairing a super low-key shirt such as a plaid flannel with a comfy satin skirt, opaque tights and low-heeled booties.

Click to shop: Esprit plaid shirt, $59.50; Mango satin skirt, $49.90; G by Guess booties, $69.99

For a more proper dinner go for a high quality cashmere sweater and a silk or brushed wool skirt for a cozy, comfy but chic ensemble. Or try a drop waist dress worn under a long knit duster. Dress up with traditional baubles like pearls and diamonds but layer your necklaces and bracelets heavily for a modern sensibility.

Click to shop: Pure Collection 100% cashmere sweater, $198; Esprit wool skirt, $79.50; Modcloth heels, $133.99.

Going out on Thanksgiving with old friends calls for a bit of dress-to-impress but also comfort for a long evening of catching up. Your favorite jeans may be a little tight after feasting so again consider wearing a skirt or dress. Try a sexy leopard print dress to add some fun to the inevitable of wearing tights and a heavy coat.

Click to shop: Minnie Rose leopard print dress, $187

Think of creative contrasts for your old favorite holiday pieces. Many people have certain items they re-use year after year. By thinking of adding a different texture to your coordinate or how to incorporate current trends to your own wardrobe, you’ll definitely come up with something new and exciting for Thanksgiving!

• J.Crew for cashmere and updates to your traditional holiday pieces
• NetAPorter for that necessary touch of couture
• Shopbop for a trendy piece

About Sinta

Sinta Jimenez’s previous incarnations: rolling stone, financial analyst, law student, herbal specialist, waitress, model, wild child, ballet dancer, student, surfer, world traveller. Current incarnation: mother, lotus amidst fierce flames. From birth to death: artist, writer, poet. A lifelong student of the arts, she received her Masters in Fine Arts from Otis College of Art and Design in 2010. Born in Manila,  she was raised and lives in DC. Check out her fabulous blog Hail to the Chic. Photo taken in Los Angeles.

Read Sinta’s posts.

Photo | bridalblvdsite.com

by Sinta Jimenez

For two consecutive years, I have attended two beautiful autumn weddings — the first, my best friend Elliot’s from high school; the second, my best friend John’s from law school. The similarities are curious, pumpkins as decorations, ceremonies by a lake with a backdrop of trees and mountains, dogs in the bridal party, and of course true love. After these two weddings, I am more than prepared for another autumn nuptial, an expert for dressing the part as guest, and think perhaps the cool bite of a fall breeze is a most romantic necessity for a wedding.

For practical reasons deciding on what to wear to an autumn wedding takes a bit more thought than the easy breezy option of a spring or summer affair. Especially with so many ceremonies being held outdoors, outerwear, warm footwear and warm formal/semi-formal dresses must be considered for comfort while still upholding wedding dress code.

Sinta’s Top Tips

• Fur or faux-fur accented outerwear brings just enough formality and glamour while providing warmth.
• When picking a dress think of colors typically associated with the season such as amber, deep purple, and warm orange tones.
• The option of slip on mules are not practical for autumn chill, consider heeled booties, thick wedges and other closed toe options.

Cashmere sweater, boots, and skinny jeans for a casual meet and greet

Click to shop: Pure Collection 100% cashmere sweater (also black and gray), $284; Miss Sixty jeans, $165.96; Steve by Steve Madden Meteour boots, $229

Opaque tights, chic oxfords, blouse, cardigan, and a bell skirt for pre-wedding night out with the groom and bride.

Click to shop: Doo-Lally bow cardigan, $88.31; Mango Blouse, $59.90; Allison Parris tulip/bell skirt, $280; Better U Muscle Toning Tights, $13.96;

Comfortable and warm travel clothing to fly in and out of the wedding location if you aren’t local.

Click to shop: Esprit cardigan, $99.50; Apart long-sleeve tee, $88;  French Connection jeans, $138; Steve Madden Intyce boot, $149

Take cues from current Autumn/Winter style trends, look to runway looks for a plethora of formal and semi-formal style options.

Carven A/W 2011

Celine A/W 2011

Marni A/W 2011

It’s totally cool to dress back to school! Conservative yet sweet cuts reminiscent of school girl uniforms are now all grown up. Wool dresses and skirts with pleats and pin tucks recall a whimsy you thought you left behind long ago.

About Sinta

Sinta Jimenez’s previous incarnations: rolling stone, financial analyst, law student, herbal specialist, waitress, model, wild child, ballet dancer, student, surfer, world traveller. Current incarnation: mother, lotus amidst fierce flames. From birth to death: artist, writer, poet. A lifelong student of the arts, she received her Masters in Fine Arts from Otis College of Art and Design in 2010. Born in Manila,  she was raised and lives in DC. Check out her fabulous blog Hail to the Chic. Photo taken in Los Angeles.

Read Sinta’s posts.

It’s time to break out the cozy sweaters and cords!  Nothing says fall better than a crisp drive through the country’s best display of autumn splendor – New England.

If you are lucky enough to make it to this region of the US in September, October, and November, you can take any one of dozens of recommended fall foliage tours in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont that can range anywhere between 30 to 200+ miles.Warm, moist air from the south and cold, dry air to the north make the weather there a little unpredictable this time of year, so layers are ideal instead of packing hard cold-weather items like a parka or long johns.   Style-wise, while trends are appreciated here as in any other part of the country, New Englanders seem to always maintain that sense of classic simplicity with a twist of individuality here and there, so that special key fall piece like your furry vest, tailored hat, or funky scarf are a go.

______________________________________________________________________________

What else should you wear for your trip to Boston, Martha’s Vineyard, or Nantucket? Fill out our My Stylist form to find out!

______________________________________________________________________________

Color choices tend to be richer and deeper.  Neutrals like mushroom gray, tan, beige, and black are also great options layered together or with brighter colors.

Make sure you have layers that can withstand any extreme changes as you peel each one off.  Simply wearing a thin layer, like a tank or tee, under a super-thick jacket might not get you through a rise or drop in temperature between 45 and 80 degrees (yes, this can actually happen!).

________Vermont foliage.

Instead, opt for a three-layer plan: A thin layer of a slim tee, tank, or dress; a second layer of a light cardigan, knit vest, fleece, hoodie, or light knit sweater; then a water-repellant jacket, leather jacket, or cropped trench to pull it all together.  Leggings, a skirt or fall shorts with tights in a fabulous color, jeans, or other casual pairs of pants like velveteen or corduroy have you covered on the bottom.   Don’t forget your knit cap, tailored hat, or thin knit scarf for cooler days or nights.

Hopefully you will be doing some walking to truly enjoy the foliage and fresh air.  Street-ready sneakers, low-heeled or flat boots (LOVE the plethora of slouchy suede styles out there!), or a comfortable pair of flats will let you cover miles (or, ok, YARDS) of enjoyment.

And after a long day of driving through the autumn wonderland, why not relax in your cozy room at a quaint bed and breakfast? SO New England!

Although October tends to be generally clear, our rule is: You just never know! And this year’s Farmer’s Almanac seems to predict an unusually rainy forecast in October.  Prepare for a random rainstorm with a water-repellant jacket (places like REI and LL Bean carry investment pieces in more tailored-looking styles), a classic rain slicker, or a great trench, which can all act as your top layer.  And, if you planned it just right, wellingtons to suit your style will complete your fall rain look.

Remember that the more inland or west you go, the cooler the temps will be while the coast tends to be warmer due to the heating of the Gulf stream just offshore (the Atlantic tends to be warmer than the Pacific because of this). Check out My Stylist for weather conditions and to help you plan your wardrobe!

Jessica Alba

Modified equestrian is always a good fall look.

Ashley Tisdale

•    The Village Shoppes at Salzburg Square | An collection of boutique stores housed in tudor-style Bavarian architecture that you’d swear you were in a German forest; visit Roxie’s Fashions for fabulous finds; Amherst, NH.  And don’t forget – tax-free shopping in New Hampshire!

•    Galapagos Boutique | An a-DOR-able old South County farmhouse filled with everything from Spanx to Hudson jeans and Alice + Olivia; Charlestown, Rhode Island.

•    Brass Mill Center and Commons |125+ mall stores, including H&M; Waterbury, Connecticut.

•    Clinton Crossing Premium Outlets | 70+ outlet shops, includes Barneys New York, Banana Republic, Michael Kors, and Kenneth Cole; Clinton, Connecticut.

•    Ralph Lauren | Classic American style that keeps evolving.

•    Downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire | Hundreds of well-known and local boutique stores; visit Puttin’ on the Glitz for some awesome and affordable pieces that are vintage or from around the world; Portsmouth, NH.

•    Vermont Fall Foliage Tours | The official state website’s comprehensive guide to recommended tours.

•    Maine Fall Foliage Tours | The official state website’s comprehensive guide to recommended tours.

•    Massachusetts Fall Foliage Tours | Mass.’s Office of Travel and Tourism website with recommended tours.

•    Connecticut Fall Foliage Tours | Official Visit Connecticut site featuring recommended tours.

•    New Hampshire Fall Foliage Tours | The New England Times guide to recommended tours.

•    Visit New Enland | The best online tourism guide to the New England experience.

•    Farmer’s Almanac | Chillier and rainier weather this fall, but don’t let that stop you from visiting during peak fall foliage.

______________________________________________________________________________

Don’t leave for your trip without Access America Travel Insurance. From travel delay coverage to missed connection coverage, they’ve got you covered!

______________________________________________________________________________

]]> http://blog.wearevertheweather.com/2011/10/new-england-what-to-wear-for-a-fall-foliage-tour/feed/ 2 http://blog.wearevertheweather.com/2011/08/what-to-wear-sailing-on-the-east-coast/ http://blog.wearevertheweather.com/2011/08/what-to-wear-sailing-on-the-east-coast/#comments Fri, 26 Aug 2011 14:47:25 +0000 Renae Virata http://blog.wearevertheweather.com/?p=5428 Bohemians go to the beach for the summer and the preppies go sailing! Sailing is a traditional summer luxury along the East Coast. Many Eastern seaboard summer vacation spots were formerly ports for British ships and from a history of Naval seafaring places like Cape Cod are now full of yachts and sailboats. If you happen to be invited to the Hamptons, the Cape, or St. Michael’s for the weekend don’t forget your boat shoes or sailing stripes!

by Sinta Jimenez

Nautical fashion is one which is extremely practical. Quite simply put, being on a boat requires specific kinds of clothing, being that you are engaging in sport.

• Sweaters, knits, pullovers of all sorts are required for a day at sea even during the warmest months as it is always colder on the water. Late afternoon and sunset sails get downright chilly.
• Chinos are always a good idea as they withstand sea water just fine and aren’t damaged by salt. They are warm as they breathable and they dry quickly.
• Boat shoes are great though not required for more luxurious cruising. The rubber bottom heel which can grip the floor are great for boats sailing low on the water.
• Nautical trends have lasted for a good hundred years. Stripes, reds, whites, and blues will never go out of fashion!

For a day sail: Sunblock, a brimmed hat, a tank top and light knit to layer, shorts

Click an item to shop this look: Alba Hawaiian Natural Sunblock with Green Tea, SPF 45, $7.19; Delia’s crochet cardigan, $14.99; Miss Sixty singlet tank, $19.47; Southpole cut-off shorts $33.99, Crocs flats $34.99,

For a sunset sail: A medium knit sweater or pull over, close-toed boat shoes, a jaunty scarf

For a dinner cruise: Dinner cruises rarely require seaworthy duds!

• Saint James

• Le Minor

• Sperry

• stmichaelsmd.org
• www.capecodtravel.com
• www.mvy.com
• www.capemay.com
• www.sailingmontauk.com

About Sinta

Sinta Jimenez’s previous incarnations: rolling stone, financial analyst, law student, herbal specialist, waitress, model, wild child, ballet dancer, student, surfer, world traveller.  Current incarnation: mother, lotus amidst fierce flames.  From birth to death: artist, writer, poet.  A lifelong student of the arts, she received her Masters in Fine Arts from Otis College of Art and Design in 2010. Born in Manila, raised in DC, she currently lives in Los Angeles.  Check out her fabulous blog Hail to the Chic.  Photo taken in Los Angeles.

Photo | Scene Boston

by Renae Virata

I personally think of Boston when I think of fall. The New England capital has the perfect backdrop to showcase this season’s military-inspired looks. The clean and sophisticated lines; the totally fall colors; and the balance between trendy and classic, which this season’s version of military draws from, have been the cornerstones of Boston fall style all along.

Being in transit as so many Bostonians are (walking, grabbing cabs, hopping onto the T) and with the days getting shorter in the fall, more muted colors like navy, olive, deep red, plum, and mustard yellow work best in the waning sunlight and show less dirt on the go. Classic styling with a few twists here and there (like military pieces) inspire a more versatile wardrobe that can take a girl from one event in the day to another at night, effortlessly. Interesting but not flashy works best when putting together an outfit as does an appreciation of comfort and appropriateness for either the weather or a particular event.

______________________________________________________________________________

What else should you wear for your trip to Boston? Fill out our My Stylist form to find out!

______________________________________________________________________________

Mix military with pieces you already own. Photo: Marie Claire

When it comes to military in general, you don’t want to look like a stylish drill sergeant, so soften your look with more feminine pieces. Try a pair of slim or wide-leg cargos, for example, with a simple lace tee or blouse, which is hot this season. (Just don’t forget to leave some things to the imagination and wear a tank underneath!) Slip on a slim-fitting military-style jacket over a high-waisted pencil or a-line skirt. Heels and sleek ankle boots or feminine flats also add that extra touch of girly-girl to make the military look good on the street.

Also look for military in the unexpected. A ruffle-front blouse, for example, in a camo print makes a now-classic silhouette new. Cargoes get some night action in cotton sateen or silk (try it cropped with heels or ankle boots!). And brighter colors such as fuchsia and true blue take the look to a whole new level.

If you are planning to visit Boston this fall, make at least one military item, whether it’s a jacket, cargoes, a skirt or boots, your go-to piece for your trip. You’ll get just the right amount of structure, interesting detailing and versatility while being oh-so-fall.

SHOP THIS LOOK

Go to My Stylist above to make your own weather-inspired outfits, like this one, to share or shop.

SHOP THIS LOOK

Go to My Stylist above to make your own weather-inspired outfits, like this one, to share or shop.

SHOP THIS LOOK

Go to My Stylist above to make your own weather-inspired outfits, like this one, to share or shop.

______________________________________________________________________________

Don’t leave for your trip without Access America Travel Insurance. From travel delay coverage to missed connection coverage, they’ve got you covered!

______________________________________________________________________________

]]> http://blog.wearevertheweather.com/2010/10/what-to-wear-in-boston-military-inspired-looks/feed/ 0 http://blog.wearevertheweather.com/2010/06/what-to-wear-to-a-graduation-ceremony/ http://blog.wearevertheweather.com/2010/06/what-to-wear-to-a-graduation-ceremony/#comments Wed, 09 Jun 2010 06:56:03 +0000 Renae Virata http://blog.wearevertheweather.com/?p=1620

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.