Holiday Must-Have: Make Room In Your Closet For "Fine Wine" Velvet

Photo Credit: Source

'Tis The Season To Be Stylish! Are you wondering what to wear this holiday season? nikki says, opt for "fine wine" velvet -- it'll keep you warm, sexy and stylish. Side note: Pairing wine-colored clothing and nude shoes is the ultimate mash-up.

Flick of the Day: Hanna "Barbie" Beth

Photo Credit: barbiebeth.com

Eva Chen Moves On To Instagram

Photo Credit: CNN Money

Eva Chen Is Set To Make A Move! I had planned to tweet Lucky magazine’s vivacious former editor-in-chief, Eva Chen, to inquire about her next career move after Lucky. Eva is not like some fashion insiders, she's actually responsive and appropriately sociable. But it turns out that I don’t have to tweet her, as I received an alert that Eva will be moving on to Instagram as its “Head of Fashion Partnerships." According to reports, Eva will begin her new role at the social media powerhouse at the end of July. 

Eva Chen tells Mashable: 

I’ll be working closely with stylists, designers, up-and-comers with fun activations and finding new ways to tell fashion stories.

If there's anyone that can pinpoint new ways to tell engaging fashion stories -- that would be Eva. Have you seen her Instagram? She's blessed with an authentic charm, for sure.

Photo Credit

I look forward to learning more about Eva's new role as the Head of Fashion Partnerships. Eva has mastered the art of social media community management, specifically using Instagram, so the position sounds fitting for our style maven. 

Best of luck, Miss. Eva Chen.

XoXo nikki

A Style Resolution To Adopt In The New Year. Grab A Pen & Paper!

Photo Credit: Teen Vogue

Dear, You 'n You. Here's a fun and simple yet necessary style resolution by (self-proclaimed TV Junkie) Romy Oltuski, Assistant Features Editor at Harper's Bazaar:

"I resolve to really edit my closet. It’s time to wear those old favorites or finally let them go." [Source]

Okay it's time to fess up. Now, how many of you own clothes that you haven't worn in months or even years—clothes that you've tucked away in the very back of your closet or at the bottom of your dresser drawer? I'll bet several of you know exactly what I'm talking about. And that's OK. But challenge yourself to take action in the new year; be inspired by Romy's awesome resolution and vow to edit your stylish hearts out.

I organize and edit my closet a few times a year and it's like my birthday, or better yet, it's like Christmas morning! No really. A few of my FAB favorite pieces always seem to resurrect. In terms of "the edit," I put on my style editor thinking cap in efforts to explore how-to wear the oldies (but goodies) in fresh, exciting new ways.

Earlier, I mentioned that Romy's resolution is fun and simple yet necessary. It's fun and simple, because I image myself as Carrie Bradshaw in the Sex And The City closet dress-up scene: I blast my favorite wild and crazy playlist (that includes 7/11 by Beyoncé) literally trying on all of my oldest treasures...deciding what to 'take or toss.' It's a party, indeed. Take a peek at the video below and you'll understand my joy regarding Carrie B. 

And last but certainly not least, the necessary part is important as well...

Photo Credit: Google

Yes, I do come across pieces that I know I'd never wear again. So as I'm dancing and trying on this and that, I sort through and set aside piles of [those pieces] that have exhausted its time with me and I donate the clothes, accessories too, that are in decent condition. Learn about where you can donate via a previous post of mine.

By editing your closet: 1. You saved money, because you found (tucked away) pieces that you forgot you even had...no need to run out and buy that sequin blazer. 2. You re-built your wardrobe by styling older pieces in new trendy ways. 3. You made room in your closet (for that new spring jacket!), due to the piles of clothes that you've donated.

I'm one of those gals who enjoys reading resolutions for the new year. I get inspired by all the optimist goal-setting. Besides, sharing your aspirations will inspire someone out there, somewhere, to try something new. Also, sharing visions of the revised you will help others to understand you as an individual with an evolving mind and sense of self.

How cool is that?

My message to you: Never stop dreaming. Never stop believing. Never stop setting goals. Wishing you all a super adventurous 2015...in your newly favorite edited outfits! 

XoXo :) nikki

Related posts on nikkisty.net

• Needing Handbag Organization STAT
• A Cool Closet Organizational Tip, Called "Shoe Stacking"

Perspective on (Person)al Style

"Passion is energy. Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you," says Oprah. 

Photo Credit: nikkistyle

When I think about what excites me since I was a little girl...I think about my 3Cs: colors, concepts and creativity. Therefore, I was sort of destined to fancy the arts, such as fashion and beauty. Both are means to explore who you are, or who you want to be. In other words, the canvas is totally blank—so you can freely express the true you, which is stimulating, and more importantly, subjective. The journey of discovering (person)al style is absolutely fascinating and it energizes the soul.

Confession: I use blogging as a platform to share tidbits that will motivate my readers to have fun while experimenting with this FAB thing we call style. And no, style is not solely about designer shoes and handbags and perfect Saturday selfies, it's more than that. Style illustrates the essence of your authentic self on this earth, from the way you wear your clothes, to the way you speak, to the way you move, to the way you respond to situations. All these elements create a concoction that ultimately forms your (person)al and individual style, especially in a media-saturated era. Sure I read the latest trends and such (Remember, I'm a magazine junkie.), but I don't let them set limits and hinder what I believe style to be. "Different strokes for different folks"; I understand that phrase to its core and aim to provide consultancy services, on a freelance basis, to strengthen personal and company brands. I am excited by my ability to detect the uniqueness of a person, place or thing. Thus, I am thankful to focus and work on super cool branding and writing projects that I wholeheartedly back and believe in.

What does style mean to you?

Photo Credit: blogs.disney.com 

Sarah Jessica Parker Doesn't Understand 'Mean Girls'

Photo Credit: mixlova.com

“I can’t STAND [it] when women say UNFRIENDLY things to other women. WHY does it have to be like that?” — Sarah Jessica Parker

Dear Sarah Jessica,  

The fact that women can be so cruel and unsupportive towards one another is unfortunately the norm and has been for decades. Thanks to social media, hurtful commentary has only skyrocketed because it is wicked easy to 'bump them gums' anonymously. Though admittedly, I've seen considerable improvement by way of well-known women in media promoting sisterhood, like Tyra Banks and Love In The City's Chenoa Maxwell. 

However, unfriendliness, as you say, will continue to suck the life out of humanity if women do not seek understanding as it pertains to their own insecurities (first) — fix or accept them — and perhaps some of the negative energy that is clogging up the universe will start to fade. A lack of self-awareness, I believe, is a mental sickness that hinders ones ability to grow, prosper, and see/accept the inner and surface beauty in others. Eckhart Tolle's thoughts on awareness is brilliant, and I invite all to read a few lines.

Photo Credit: Pinterest

In closing, no, it doesn't have to [be like that] Sarah Jessica; the act of kindness starts with self: I learned that kindness is infectious, yep. And I never hesitate to congratulate another female on a job-well-done, or stop her in the streets to tell her she's absolutely gorgeous. Those exchanges will not only spread like wildflowers, but will create room for new friendships. 

Thanks for asking the question, Sarah Jessica, it's an important one. So, Ladies of the World, will you join the #Kind campaign?

Being "kind" upgrades personal style adding just a simple touch of unforgettable awesomeness to any outfit — an accessory that's always on-trend! ;) nikki

  
Source: The Edit

Hey-Guess What? You Can Absolutely Dress-Down (the trendy) Sequin!

Photo Credit: refinedstyle.com

Style Notes! I've been wrestling with how to best dress-down sequin -- until now. The fashion gal in the featured photo (by the way, who is she *ahem* Refined Style?) is showing us how to wear a sequin piece without looking overly flashy. Honestly, I shied away from rockin' sequin in fear of looking like a damn disco ball-that's not going to work-nope. Disclaimer: I do, however, love looking fashionably forward, just not in excess, ya know? 

Style Solution: I believe the balance, for me, is to pair sequin with "downtown" distressed denim (either shorts, or a skirt). Also, the featured outfit would look perfect with a pair of tennis shoes, or heels-at night. OoOo there I go again...with that "transitional" talk.

Below are more trendy sequin looks that I'm simply adoring. Yuuuuuuuup!

Olivia Palermo, People StyleWatch

Sincerely, Jules

Questions/comments about this post? Write to me: nikki@nikkistyle.net :) xx -ns
Follow me on: Instagram | Pinterest | Tumblr | Twitter

The Hook's Gregory DelliCarpini Jr. Chats with Celebrity Stylist, Ty Hunter

Style Notes! Ty Hunter went from window-dressing to styling THE HOTTEST superstar to hit the stage — Beyoncé (Knowles-Carter). Wondering how'd that happen? Ty tells all to The Hook's Gregory DelliCarpini Jr. (above) | Follow Ty Hunter on Twitter.

“I was working in a store in Houston and I met Ms. Tiny and we just clicked instantly,” He revealed to Billboard. “I had a day off and called her to see if she needed help. The rest is history. The next week I was at the Grammys.”

Source: Billboard 

Flick of the Day: A Taste of Street Style

Photo Credit: CFDA via Wannabe magazine

Trend Alert: Overalls For Women

Source: Pretty Major

Style Notes! Unless you've been living underneath a giant rock, I'm sure you heard that overalls made a huge comeback this spring. Yup, you read right, overalls -- "bib-and-brace" -- overalls. And while I'm not too sure if I'd rock the trend (more leaning towards a no) I'm really starting to find them exceptionally cutesy, thanks to the featured picture. 

Home-Girl wearing the overalls (above) is showing us that she's embracing the trend as she pairs it with a cool white mesh short sleeve shirt. But, I particularly like that the overall is distressed denim, which is certainly a spruce-up ingredient adding some fashionable flavor to mix. Moreover, peep her manicure! It's clean and simple yet stands out whilst complementing the entire outfit. And the camera? It's so statement.

Photo Credit: I Am Necole

In closing, I Google'd 'overalls' to read the latest articles discussing the trend, as well as to spy on adult celebs brave enough to wear overalls during SS/13. Findings: Necole of necolebitchie.com (left) is working it for the people. Don't y'all think? Personally, [I think] she nailed it. So, would you rock the overalls trend? Tell me on Twitter, or right below in the comment section. xx :) -ns

Do you want to rock the overalls trend? You're in luck! I handpicked options JUST FOR YOU! Shop The Trend: 3.1 Phillip Lim; Amazon; Anthropologie; ebay; Forward by Elyse Walker; Free People; Macy*s; YOOX.COM

Brian Atwood's "Tie Me Up" Sandals

Shoe Crushin'! Today I spotted these sex kitten (ish) lace up sandals. But, I must admit, as I looked at the shoe by itself (right) I wasn't wholeheartedly loving them -- until I saw the "Tie Me Up" sandals on Brian Atwood's friend (above), which basically displays the perfect example of a creative personal styling approach.

Pairing the sandals with dark blue distressed skinnies was a fabulous idea (because I'm not sure if I would like the sandals as much -- if they were paired with a dress). Also, I like the rockstar mixture of neon green (heels) and purple nail polish! These simple touches made me realize that the animal print sandals ARE workable and far from "hideous." 

Warning: Animal Print can be tough to pull off; it can add some spice, or add tads of tacky. 

What do you think about the Tie Me Up sandal? Hit, or Miss? Tell me on Twitter. -TTYS

Photo Credit: Brian Atwood

Is American Apparel Asking For It?

Style Notes! British Vogue posted the above pic today with the following caption:

TODAY I'M WEARING an American Apparel Obama T-Shirt, a Kelly Wearstler top, a D&G skirt and Stuart Weitzman boots.

OK, cute outfit. But the statement on the t-shirt "Obama is the new black" is not sitting well with some folks. Honestly, I was taken aback when I first saw the shirt -- thinking to myself ... hm, well what does that mean exactly? (Brace yourselves, this is gonna get ugly.)

What do you think? Tell me on Twitter.

Style Inspiration: Angelic

Photo Credit: The Clothes Horse

Style Notes | My approach this week, from a style stance, is to wear pieces that are soft and innocent in efforts to create outfits that presents an "angelic" look and feel.

The featured photo has been tagged as my inspiration. The mixing of prints (both blouse and skirt) is on-trend—the classic hot pink cardigan adds a splash of personal style.

2012 A/W: Flammeum

• Angora Cardigan: FMK-6203-B
• Check Dots Blouse: FMG-6203-B
• Colorful Nep Skirt: FMC-6200-B
• Earrings: FMZ-6211-B

What's your style inspiration? Tell me on Twitter.

"Bohemian Punk"

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Alexander McQueen via Elle

Style Notes | Over the years, I would jot down fashion words and phrases that might describe my signature style. And recently, while browsing Elle's Web site, I saw the term "Bohemian Punk" and thought: Ah yes ... that's it! The look demonstrates the compilation of trendy, chic, comfortable pieces—and yes—"geometric patterns, shells, skulls, and chains," according to Elle. Very nikkistyle!

I try never to play-it-safe in regards to my overall style. My clothing, shoes, jewelry, handbags, and even hair accessories, gotta have a hint of the "Wow!" factor. 

What's YOUR signature style? Tweet me at @nikkistyle, or leave a comment. 

Kerli.

Photo Credit: Facebook

Style Inspiration | The self-proclaimed "moon child" a.k.a. singer-songwriter Kerli born in Elva, Estonia is one word: intriguing. Kerli is totally adorable, yet spooky at the same time. Anyways, I've kept my eye on her since the debut of Walking On Air, where the song lyrics brings truth to my spooky assumption:

There's a little creepy house 

In a little creepy place 

Little creepy town 

In a little creepy world 

Little creepy girl

With her little creepy face 

Saying funny things 

That you have never heard...

EXCLUSIVE! Taliah's Signature Style

"I don't really follow trends (well just the right ones), I follow what feels right. Confidence is key." Taliah  

As a style blogger, I try to spark chats with people that embody a unique personal style, an overall presence that is unforgettable. For years I've been on this "embrace your individuality" movement, encouraging my readers to find a style that works "for her" -- and to feel completely comfortable  experimenting with trends.

Taliah of Fashion Was Here caught my attention, because she embraces [her own] style with confidence. Taliah has a keen eye for fashion, and a beautiful personality to match. Read on; get-to-know Taliah, a real stylista! 

Nikki: I’ve been following Fashion Was Here faithfully and absolutely love all the outfits you wear. (No really, I do!)

Taliah: Aw thank you! It’s fun to share my style with my readers and give them a taste of me. Of course I have my bad days, but you will never see that on the blog. [Laughs]

N: You’ve definitely mastered your ‘signature’ look! That being said, what inspires your overall personal style?

T: Well I didn’t know I had a signature look. I often think about how people define my style, because it’s usually hard for me to put myself in a box. I feel like I can be all over the place, but overall, I think culture inspires my personal style. I love to be different and take from different eras and ethnicities. I especially love anything from the 70s, like the movies and biopic films that showcase that style. I am a big advocate of vintage, so a lot of times I like to mix that with modern pieces to complete my look. Also, anything beautiful and romantic can inspire my style, like anything from a Japanese Geisha, to a Sudanese model, to great music. I love that!

In The Woods

N: So, for those who are in the midst of trying to develop his/her own personal style can you give some tips for success?

T: I would say to stay true to yourself by going with what feels right. Make sure you know your sizes and body type and let the clothes compliment your look. So for example, if you have short legs you may want to stay away from ankle strap shoes, because they can cut off the length of your leg and make you look shorter. Solid colors also make people look taller. Try different things like wearing a hint of color with an all black ensemble or playing with prints. Read and study magazines that give tips on how-to style looks. Also, find a celebrity or style muse who has a similar taste, or body shape as you—and let them inspire you. That always helps.

N: I understand that you have lots of love for classic pieces—and so do I! Which vintage stores do you enjoy shopping at?

T: I love Wasteland in LA, Spitalfield and Bricklane Flea markets and Notting Hill in London, Screaming Mimis in Manhattan, this store in Brooklyn (can’t remember the name), Killer Trash and The Zone in Baltimore, and the Little Five Points area in Atlanta, GA. 

N: What are some of your must-have staple wardrobe items?

T: Black patent leather pumps, a nice chunky sweater/cardigan, of course a great blazer (I like all lengths), an over-sized bag (I love black), I love wooden bangles and other styles, cocktail rings, sequin top or dress (I love sparkly things) and I have to have a great pair of skinny jeans.

N: Let’s switch gears and talk a little bit about your style blog, Fashion Was Here. Great name, by the way! What made you [want-to] create the site in the first place?

T: Thanks! I originally started my blog in '06 and the name was inspired by one of my favorite artists, Kelis, from the title of her album, “Kelis Was Here.” I felt it was a great title, because I was leaving my mark in fashion...like my permanent signature. I have been into fashion for almost forever, so once I started seeing these blogs on the Internet, it was my opportunity to share my passion for fashion. It wasn’t personal at first, just random write-ups on “What’s Hot,” celebrity style, magazine editorials, and style spotlights. I wasn’t too consistent with it but my friends loved it and supported it, so that made me happy. [Laughs] It was fun to do but I just didn’t keep it up like I wanted to. Now I look at it as my job more than just a hobby, so I take my blog very seriously.

LadyLike in Spring

N: The images of you on your style blog look professional. Who is the person behind the lens?

T: Well sometimes it's my good friend Jason—and other times it’s random folks like my friends and co-workers. Honestly, whoever can click the button for me on the camera is who I will ask, by any means necessary. I don’t have a personal photographer yet, so it can get hard at times to have style posts. 

Kimono Style

N: What do you like to do when you’re not blogging and talking about fashion?

T: I love to cook or eat out. Trying on shoes and shoe shopping, reading and going to the movies are my favorite pastimes. I am also a huge Internet geek, so I stay browsing other people’s blogs, websites, and doing massive research. But lately, I’ve become a couch potato, so I love to watch my favorite shows on TV like Gossip Girl, Real Housewives, True Blood and movies I’ve seen over and over.

N: So, what’s next for Taliah? Are there any exciting projects on the horizon?

T: I am working on getting Fashion Was Here more features and sponsorships. I think it is vital to have more exposure and coverage for my blog so I can gain more readers and followers. I’m also going to launch an online store for my fashion readers to shop from my closet. There are so many supplements and additions I want to add to Fashion Was Here, but right now, I’m still working on the blog’s layout. I’m taking it day by day.

Editor's Picks! You all should know that it was incredibly hard for me to choose my favorite "Taliah Looks!" Because as I mentioned previously, I love all her outfits! There is always some special piece that I obsess over ... that's so #taliahstyle

Pink and Red

Pearls, Chains and Yellow Clutch

Winter White

Top Knot

Camel Coated

Corduroys x Red Lips

Romanticism

Big Brown Bear

Botanical Garden

Leather in the Evening

I Fell off my Pink Cloud

Russian Roulette

To see more of Taliah's personal style, visit Fashion Was Here.

I'm Inspired By (Senior Fashion Editor) Jenny Kang's Recent Refinery29 Interview!

Photo Credit: Refinery29

I love following the lives of  fashion editors that work for reputable magazines and websites. After reading Jenny Kang's interview: Jenny Kang's Inspiring Pop-Prep Style [via Refinery29], I am now searching aimlessly for her Twitter screen name.

Jenny is the Senior Fashion Editor at The Huffington Post/Stylelist. 

Below is an excerpt of the interview; these are my favorite Q & As! 

Describe your style in six words or less.

"Preppy sportswear with punches of fun (that's exactly six words!)"

You recently made the move from Lucky Magazine to AOL/Huffington Post. Welcome to the dark side! How's it working in online?

"Thank you! I'm really enjoying it—I'm learning so much about the digital world and it's an exciting time to be at AOL/Huffington Post right now because we're in a phase where we can create all new ideas and plan a full re-launch later this summer. We've built a brand-new team and the energy everyone has is incredible! I'm still getting used to the pace though. There's a lot less lead time than when I worked in print, but the great thing is you can bring your ideas to life almost immediately."

What's your go-to outfit when you've got five minutes to dress?

"A button-down shirt, cropped cuffed skinny jeans/pants, a mishmash of bracelets, and something neon. Go."