The Stylish Local

When it comes to getting dressed wearing all black is one of my favorite things to do the color looks good on everyone and it makes you look effortlessly put together even if you really took two hours to get dressed. Like most New Yorkers I love a good all black ensemble but some people may find it boring and feel like they can’t express their personal style but I disagree. Here are three easy ways to wear all black.

1) Play with texture. The beauty of wearing all black is that you can experiment with textures without feeling overwhelmed since black is what I like to call a “safe” color. Most people will buy an item in black before they try it in the other available colors because they know it will go with what they already own and it is known to have a slimming effect. When wearing all black I love pairing things like leather and lace, velvet and knits, or sequins and denim because they add interest to an outfit.

2) Add a pop of color! Another one of my favorite things to do when wearing all black is to add a pop of color, my favorite color to add is red I don’t know where my obsession came from but black and red will always be a favorite color combination of mine. Recently I’ve gotten back into pink but more blush tones because I think they look more elevated and add a feminine touch to an all black look which can sometimes feel more masculine or harsh to some people. You can add the color with a pair of shoes, a bag, a hat, a coat, or even your jewelry the choice is yours.

3) Add a pop of print! As we all know by now animal print is huge this season and all black is the perfect palette to show off any head turning prints. If you’re not into full printed looks this is the easiest way to show off your statement pieces without them clashing, unless your that kind of girl then I say DO YOU!

xoxo Ash

I wasn’t even a thought in my parents mind when Dynasty aired on television in 1981, the popular soap opera was known for its over the top characters and looks (think sequins and shoulder pads on steroids) and it is a major fashion inspiration for me. I love anything that sparkles or makes a statement which is something I definitely get from my mom, so when I saw this jacket on one of our thrifting trips I had to have it! As I slipped the jacket on I prayed to the fashion Gawds that it fit. They must have heard me because it was perfect, slightly boxy fit with shoulder pads that gave a hint of drama in copper, gold, and black sequins that were perfect for day or night. And it only cost me $8! I damn near skipped out of the store I was so happy. I’m probably going to be wearing this jacket to death so sorry in advance (but not really) for the constant looks featuring my new favorite.

Where do you find your fashion inspiration from? Comment down below and let me know!

There are certain pieces that I think everyone should own and I’ve decided to dedicate a blog post to each of my personal wardrobe essentials. If you know me then you know that number one on the list is a blazer, I don’t care if you like them oversized, boxy, tailored, printed, or solid in color just get one if you don’t have one already. A blazer can elevate your look instantly if you need to take a outfit to the next level or it can dress down a more formal outfit, a t-shirt and jeans combo with a blazer thrown on top has become my fashion uniform. When I don’t know what to wear that uniform always saves the day, its foolproof and guarantees that you look like you have your shit together. On this day I wore my blazer with shorts and heels (another easy combo) because its the perfect outfit for the transitional weather that we’re having here in New York.

When buying a blazer the fit should be on point, if you want it tailored pay attention to the fit in the shoulders and make sure the arms are the correct length for your height. However if you’re like me and always wear your sleeves rolled up you can get away with the arms being a little too long or too short.  If you’re going for an oversized look be mindful of the sizing you want a cool relaxed look not I’ve been playing dress up in my parents closet.

If you need more styling ideas check out my Instagram page @thestylishlocal for more inspiration there will always be a blazer look.

XOXO ~ Ash

To clash or not to clash? That is the question. I’ll be honest and say I wasn’t always brave enough to mix prints the way I’ve seen in magazines and on street style stars but the more I saw it being done the more I fell in love with the look of mixing multiple patterns in a outfit. I’m still new to the print mixing life but I do have a couple of tips for beginners who want to try the look.

1) Stick with the same colors and tones. Keeping your prints in the same color family helps to create a cohesive look. Start out with neutrals if you want to ease into this style of dressing.

2) Size Matters. Playing with prints of different proportions adds interest to a look, so pair bigger bolder prints with smaller daintier prints. Also sticking to the same print (floral, checked, polka dot etc..) in different sizes and tones helps you to not look overwhelmed by your clothes.

3) Find a common color. When mixing prints find a base color in both prints thats pulls the look together. Seeing the same color repeated in both prints is another way to bring the look together. Here the black in the leopard print and the shoes are the common color.

4) Forget the rules and do what you want. You only live once! 

Are you into mixing prints? If so which ones are your favorite to pair together?