Cut It Out

Clockwise: Oasis Cut Out Side Dress, ERA By Kymerah Eliza Cutout Halter Dress, Sparkle & Fade Sateen Cutout Skater Dress, Reformation Fiore Dress, Nasty Gal Diamond Crush Jumpsuit, Rory Beca Cherry Cutout Dress

     Cutout clothing has staked its claim in the fashion world. Rather than exposing excess skin in one place, cutouts turn the skin into a background to highlight interesting shapes and forms of fabric. The ubiquitous trend is seen from runways and red carpets to high school halls. Thick linear cuts in gowns at this year's Met Ball and thin patterned slits in Alexander Wang's current spring collection exhibit the style on the high fashion spectrum. The look can also be achieved in everyday wear such as short, flirty dresses and sleek jumpsuits. I must have subconsciously forecasted this trend; I tested it out last summer! 

Images: Vogue, Style.com

Black and Blue

American Apparel Jumper, J.Crew Cropped Pants, Marais USA Mary Janes, Tiffany & Co. Locket, Jennifer Meyer Ring 

     An illustration of an über-stylish French woman in Ines De La Fressange's Parisian Chic gave birth to today's outfit. After seeing this drawing, which features a woman clad in an oversized navy blue coat and black cropped pants, I realized how I'd been completely missing out in combining black and navy blue in one look. The perfect opportunity arose when I purchased a black 3D floral jumper (thanks to an unused birthday gift card) and received a pair of hand-me-down navy cropped pants from my mom. Who says black and blue is a bad thing?

Defining Style

     Often celebrated fashion figures have a unique, easily definable look. For example, take Rachel Zoe. At the sound of her name, I instantly picture oversized sunglasses, chunky jewelry, a black maxi dress, and outrageously high heels. Or the blogger Leandra Medine of the Man Repeller, whose title alone defines her wild and courageous fashion sense. Finally, "It Brit" Alexa Chung is well known for her edgy yet classic style. 
     I once believed that it was extremely important to have a distinct personal style like these fashionistas. I was often frustrated about not having my own clear-cut look. Lately however, I'm starting to realize that personal style doesn't have to be limited. It's not necessary to dress a specific way on a day-to-day basis. If you do, good for you! But if you don't, who really cares? Maybe one day my style will be more defined, but for now I'll continue to explore the possibilities. 

What does personal style mean to you?

Images: NY Mag, Harper's Bazaar, Refinery 29

Collars and Cutoffs

Madewell Collared T-shirt, J.Crew Cashmere Sweater, Levis Cutoff Shorts, BDG Pouch, Marais USA Boots

     In my day-to-day outfits, I try to find a middle ground between casual and dressy. Taking cues from Alexa Chung, I've learned that a pair of cutoff shorts are a great starting point to build a chic and comfortable outfit. To dress up my distressed denim, I layered a black cashmere sweater over a gold-collared tee. I love the collar's unique three dimensional beading; it's a fun update from my typical Peter Pans.

Revlon Mani Mix-Up

     Throughout my middle school and high school years, Teen Vogue has served as my fashion and beauty bible. Ever since I began reading the magazine and making frequent visits to the website, I've had a strong desire to get involved. Becoming a Teen Vogue It Girl was the ultimate answer! Being an "It Girl" has allowed me to answer questionnaires for the magazine, have access to exclusive events, and enter tons of contests. 
     Not long ago, I entered a contest for an opportunity to throw a nail art party in celebration of Revlon's new nail art line, which includes the Nail Art Expressionist, Nail Art Neon, and Nail Art Moon Candy products. I'm thrilled that I was chosen along with nine other girls in the country to host an event!
     This past Sunday ten of my friends and I had our nail art extravaganza! To celebrate the bright colors of the nail art collection and our sunny Los Angeles setting, we had the party at my friend Natalie's pool. We had a total blast painting our nails in bright colors with eye-catching designs, ranging from neon drips to leopard print to watermelons. 
     I feel so lucky to have been able to host such a fun fête, and Revlon and Teen Vogue deserve a massive thank you for sending such wonderful products and decorations!