The Monochromatic Outfit

Have you ever been told that your outfit is too "matchy-matchy"? At some point in our lives, I think we all have. Well, I'm here to report that the rules have changed. Dressing in a monochrome outfit is super easy and really chic. Monochrome styles were very popular in the late 40's through the early 80s. For some reason once we hit the 90s the trend was replaced with the "mix and match". Although mixing and matching is still a favorite style philosophy of mine, I am slowly falling in love with the monochromatic trend. Can you say #AllBlackEverything? But seriously, what's more chic than a head-to-toe white or black ensemble? It's time to take a hint from the parisians and embrace the one-color trend. We've been missing out on the good stuff people!

There's no reason to fear the monochrome trend, especially if you follow my five easy tips.

1. Make sure the pieces you choose are the exact same hue.
2. Whatever your color choice may be, make sure you break up the outfit with complementing pieces. Just like color-blocking. The goal is not to look like a bucket of paint has just been poured on you ;).
3. Pile on the accessories and have fun with it! It's the perfect time to experiment with crazy statement pieces.
4. Mix textures/styles. Embellishments, ruffles, pleats...etc. can instantly add dimension. Pair a white ruffled top, white jeans, camel colored belt, and a tailored white boyfriend blazer. The belt will draw attention and the ruffled top will prevent the outfit from falling flat.
5. Shop your closet. If it's your first stab at the trend, try peeping into your closet to see what pieces you could pull together. See a color you love but don't have matching pieces? The next time you go shopping keep those items in mind and use it as your base. 

What I love the most about this outfit is the fact that I can style it again as separates. For this look, I tried experimenting with a crop-top and cupcake skirt. I love how it all pulls together to create the illusion of a dress. Sometimes going back to the basics can be the best fashion statement.

What I'm wearing: Crop-top and Skirt- Mint Market in Hoboken/ Statement Necklace-Regatta Boutique in Sparta NJ/Bracelet- JCREW/ Heels- Aldo/ Clutch- Marc Jacobs

Photography by: Sierra Z. For bookings contact lora@lorawarnick.com

XO,

The "It" Color For Spring

Even though the past few days have not felt like spring, we need to live like it! I am so over drib and drab winter colors, so I've officially tapped into my spring wardrobe. Icy mint and bright pink are two powerful shades you should be working into your wardrobe. Although radiant orchid was deemed the pantone color of the year, lemonade pink is a close second! After all, spring marks the official return of bright colors and ladylike fabrics. It only makes sense to favor the all-time girly color...pink! To illustrate how you can start mixing in the bright shades, I decided to team up with Tiffany from Living in Heels!

Tiffany Lee of Living in Heels:

#PinkX2

My look: I used a girly approach when pulling pieces for this shoot. I love mixing bright colors with floral printed skinnies and then toning down the look with neutrals and basics (the black coat and nude heels). If you don't currently own a pair of nude heels and floral skinnies- now is the time to splurge!

My Outfit Details: Francesca's Trench Coat/ JCrew Sweater and Floral Skinnies/ H&M Stud Necklace/ Kmart Pink Flower Necklace/ Aldo Heels

Tiffany's look: On the other hand, Tiffany decided to edge up her look by pairing a pink tee with black trousers and a fun vest. She wanted to go for a chic and edgy look. I'd say she nailed it ;). I personally love how the zippers add dimension to her ensemble.

Tiffany's Outfit Details: Tom Ford Bag/ Schutz Heels/ Required Flare Necklace/American Apparel Tee/ Torn by Ronny Kobo Pants and Vest

We hope these spring inspired outfits get you in the spirit. And if frosty the snowman could please return to the North pole, that would be great.

XO,

Fringey Fashion

Fringe tops are currently having a major moment. If you've been following along with the Coachella fun, then you have probably noticed that every festival-goer has worn some version of the fringe top. It's universally known that music festivals call for easy going fashion. Although we associate fringe tops with loud music, retro jumpsuits, and swing dresses, you can certainly pull inspiration from the current festival looks and work them in to your weekend wardrobe. Who doesn't love a dose of laid-back fashion?

Fringe tops can be delicate and fun, but if you wear too much of it all at once you will distract the viewer. My favorite tops are lacey with thin fringe along the bottom. I'm not a fan of the long/think fringe tees, I think it comes off a little too relaxed. 

 Here's how you can rock the fringe top back at home:

-> Opt for basic colors (grey, camel, or black)

->Pair with light colored bottoms. Nothing looks more polished than a fresh pair of white pants! 

->The more delicate the jewelry, the better.

->To tailor the look, throw on a fitted blazer. The fringe bottoms peeping out will add visual interest
-> If you have a short torso you can lengthen your look by wearing longer necklaces.
->Take your favorite footwear for a spin. I personally love gladiator sandals. When I found these leather heeled sandals by Vince Camuto, I had to stop myself from buying them in cognac and black! Thankfully I had time to think it through before cashing out at the register. I decided to go with the cognac sandals. It's a great color for summer and pairs well with practically anything! Have I convinced you to buy them yet? Perhaps I'll leave that for another blogpost ;).

Like I always say, have fun with it! Choose a fringe top that looks best for your body shape. Pair with fun accessories and be ready to work the ultimate laid-back style. And lastly, don't forget to capture a fun photo of yourself dancing in the sun. After all, that's what fringe tops are for!

What I'm Wearing: Leather Heeled Gladiators: Vince Camuto, Fringe Top: Nordstrom Monteau (similar here), Jeans: Madewell, Necklace: Dor L' Dor in Red Bank

XO,

The Hair Tuck: Are You In Or Out?

When I leave for work in the morning I am typically half sleeping, frazzled, and trying to pull myself together in the event I run into someone I know on the subway or out in the street. I truly live by the rule, don't talk to me before I have my morning coffee. So naturally, my street style Monday-Friday AM consists of a relaxed/fun outfit with my favorite quilted Burberry coat thrown over and buttoned to the neck to polish off the look. I don't even bother to untuck my hair from my coat, it requires too much effort. Which brings me to the topic of today's post, the new beauty trick- untucked hair. Yes, tucking your hair into your clothing on purpose. At first I laughed when I read about it in the beauty/fashion magazines. I mean, we all do it everyday whether it's on purpose or not! But then I realized it's actually super catchy and it's a fun way to edge up your style. The result of the look? Instant cool-girl.

The hair tuck hides the ends of your hair and allows the focus to be on the top half (which is usually the shiniest). You can play around with the tuck by pulling your hair into a scarf, shirt, collar, or even a necklace. When in doubt, you can trust this to be the easiest way to look insanely chic out in the streets. You can even fake a bob if you pull the look off right. 

The hair tuck trend was born on the runway and because of it's simplicity I think it's here to stay. So what do you think? Are you in or out?

Other Tucks I love:

Image via A Merry Mishap (Photo Jeana Sohn)

I love this look for many reasons. Firstly, the red lips pop against the blue scarf, but I mostly love how she managed to tuck her hair into a scarf. The loose pieces in the front add the minimalist touch.

 Image via The Eclectic Life.

The Braid Tuck. Perfect for a warm springy day.

Miranda Kerr for H&M. Image via Refinery29

The original hair tuck shown above by Miranda Kerr for H&M. The look is totally low key and effortless. Have I sold you on the tuck yet?

XO,

Get Your Moto Running

The moto jacket is the perfect transition piece to help you step into spring in style. To achieve that  model-off-duty look, pair with relaxed pieces such as a simple tee, black skinny jeans or a basic fitting skirt. I even love to wear them over a flirty summer dress. It's still a little too early to break out the sandals so use your favorite pair of flats to complete the look.

For a cool contrast, I styled this emerald green moto jacket (traditionally worn in the fall), with a ladylike pencil skirt. Moto jackets beg to be worn with edgy pieces, which is why I chose to style this look with studded flats. Instant biker-chic.

DBJ Style Tips:

*Since it's not summer yet, the key is to pair the jacket with one basic piece. In my case, the black pencil skirt. If the temps allow you can rock the look without tights, but chances are you will need some extra coverage. Throw on your tights and voila! Add a scarf for additional warmth.

*An important part to finishing the look is perfecting your make-up. Take the plunge and go for the bold lip. Coral is the "it" color for spring and this is the perfect time to start testing out new shades!

*Don't go too heavy on the jewels. The moto jacket is a statement on its own. Pair with dainty pieces.

*Create a high impact look by investing in citrus-hued jackets. I love bright pops of color for spring styled with neutrals. Who says your jacket has to be black or brown? Step out of your comfort zone and have fun with it!

The moto jacket is quite possibly the coolest way to edge up an outfit for spring. Don't you agree? 

What I'm Wearing: Moto Jacket: Zara (more fun looks here), Top and skirt: H&M, Flats: Nine West (sold out but also loving these), Clutch: Marc Jacobs (similar style here)

XO,

The Art of Layering

Whether you're at the beach, in the mountains, or jet-setting to Europe, the layering techniques will remain the same. More is always...more! An easy way to stay comfortable all day long is to work with basic items to create a full look. Lay your outfit options out on your bed. Do you have a basic tee you can build on? Have some fun with your outfit planning by mixing prints and textures. Try to keep the colors within the same family. 

For this outfit, I chose a basic linen tank with piecey straps. To build, add on fun scarves and accessories. Be sure to check the cut of your shirt in the mirror. Depending on the neckline, you will need to play with the sizing and lengths of your necklaces. Don't overcrowd! You don't want to draw attention away from your pretty face ;).

The final piece: Jackets are the last item I turn to when layering. Once you have the core of the outfit built, play with your outerwear. DBJ Tip: Do not purchase jackets that are skin tight around your arms, and always make sure the jacket closes properly across your bust. Ill-fitting jackets can destroy the look and seem forced. Play it safe and go up a size if you are feeling constrained. You can always alter the jacket later for a custom fit.

Remember to have fun with it. If you're in a crunch and can't decide if the layers work- tweet me. An honest opinion always helps!

What I'm Wearing: Top: BCBG, Skirt: Nordstrom (now 40% off!!), Necklace: Dor L' Dor of Red Bank, Scarf: Dear Hannah of Hoboken, Clutch: Donna Dixon (scored this gem on ebay for $16-more options here)

XO,

As a side note, this was the end result of this mini photoshoot. Ice cream= happiness!