The Europeans Don't Do This with Scarves

The Europeans are style setters for sure, and when it comes to scarves, they just get it. They know how to tie them, but they also know something else.

They understand, (consciously or unconsciously), that patterned scarves look better than solid scarves.

Are there no solid scarves sold in Paris?

Yes, there are, but when I stop to think about it, they are at the stores that line the Rue de Rivoli. These are the stores that are filled with Eiffel Tower key chains and Paris refrigerator magnets.

Of course, these stores are lovely, but not a place where the Parisians shop... or buy scarves.

So to demonstrate this, I made a video showing why opting for a patterned scarf over a solid one can make all the difference.

I also illustrate another very important style know-how --- they don't wear their scarves with the ends squared off. Instead, it's always with a point, which adds length and fluidity (you can see this in the video :)

If you enjoy this video, be sure to share it with someone who would also like seeing it!

Spring Essentials : Blush, A Jean Jacket & Walk-able Heels

Spring always makes us feel renewed. Refreshed.

This is why I love the idea of taking a few things we already own and making them work for spring.

BLUSH
I’ve talked about blush many times in my style newsletter, but blush is a fabulous neutral. It works with black, navy, grey and in this example, looks great with leopard!

Blush makes the transition from winter to spring easy because it’s not as harsh as black (at this point, we’re done with winter, no?!).

And, blush is very versatile.
+ If you want a handbag that will go with everything, try one in blush
+ If you want a blazer or layering item, go for blush
+ Blush gym shoes are very popular and look great with jeans for an easy casual look (I’ve seen satin blush gym shoes that are very fun!)

A big cuff to me is always a good go-to accessory. It works with casul and dressy items.

When you’re tired of black, navy, grey and brown, try blush. You’ll be surprised just how much it works with (you can see more inspiration for what works with blush on my Pinterest board HERE).

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JEAN JACKET
Like fall, spring is all about layering, and surprise, the jean jacket has come back around!

As a child of the ‘80s, I grew up with big, boyfriend-inspired jean jackets. However, unless we get the styling exactly right, those oversized jean jackets can look frumpy (anything too long or too big will instantly make you look dowdy).

Instead, opt for a jean jacket that is a bit shorter than you would think, ie it hits at your natural waist (where dresses naturally taper in).

Why?

Because any longer and it won’t look right with skirts and dresses. (This is why a blazer will look good with pants, but once you pair it with a skirt or dress, it looks a bit off ---- it’s too long.)

I bought this jean jacket last year at H&M. It’s shorter, fitted and it has a ruffle across the back - don’t shy away from a bit of detail! It makes it unique and fun.

You don’t want cropped – you want one that’s a bit shorter than normal or is tailored (has more shape than the traditional jean jacket which can be kind of boxy).

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And, a jean jacket is so fun to accessorize!

I took my grandfather’s tie pins and put them on the lapel.

Like flowers in a vase, an odd number looks best.

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WALK-ABLE HEELS
Lastly, I think it’s a wardrobe staple to have a pair of heels (a little dressier than casual sandals or flats), that you can actually walk-in.

I bought these blush heels long before I bought these pants (I bought the heels in cognac as well since that is also a great neutral and nice if you don’t like blush).

It does help elongate the leg when you can match your shoes to your pants, but it isn’t necessary. I could have still worn some other neutral like gold, nude or bronze with this outfit. (The blush shoes just create a softer and more “spring like” look.)

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What are your favorite items to wear in the spring? Do you use any winter pieces or are you glad to pack them away and welcome in spring?

Modern Ways to Wear Silk Scarves

Silk scarves are lovely, but let's be honest, they can look old.  Tied off to the side, they can look like something a flight attendant might wear and worn draped over the shoulders?  Well, it's dated. 

Since I find them in every closet (usually unworn), I highlighted a few different ways to wear them in my May 2017 newsletter (not on the list?  No worries!  Click here to subscribe - it's free). 

I also created a Pinterest board to go with the newsletter.  This board has lots of stylish and modern ways to wear silk scarves (I love it worn through the loops of a trench coat - so chic!).  One of the easiest ways to wear a square silk scarf?  Make it into a necklace!

Moi, using an old silk scarf to jazz up a simple blazer and white jeans.  Pic originally posted on Instagram

Here's how to do it.   

STEP 1
Bring together opposite ends of the scarf to make a triangle. 

If your scarf is already an oblong shape, ie long and straight, then you can skip this first step.

STEP 2
Starting with the top of the triangle, roll the scarf to create an oblong shape.  This also helps condenses the bulk of the scarf to make it easier to wear as a necklace.

Now it's an oblong shape! 
 

STEP 3
Tie a knot in the middle of the scarf.
 

STEP 4
If your scarf is a little bigger, you can tie 2 more knots on either side of the middle knot.  If your scarf is smaller, just leave it with one knot.

Voila!  Tie the ends together at the base of your neck with any and all of your favorite outfits.


Would you wear this?  What's your favorite wear to wear silk scarves?  Let me know in the comment section - I'd love to hear!