Boho Chic - a spring wardrobe inspiration.

Happy Fashionable Friday Readers!
   It's the most stylish time of the year as fashion week began yesterday in New York.  As your diligent style arbiter I spent last evening flipping through pictures of the shows and parties to bring the very best to you.  That was when I ran across this picture of the beautiful Blake Lively in Alexander McQueen at the Amfar gala.  I love that she does "California cool" even at a fashion-y gala in NYC.  Stunning!

It inspired me to continue contemplating spring and what I need to add to my wardrobe to look fresh and modern.   I think a bohemian patio dress is a must this season.  While the patio dress is certainly not new, the bohemian prints were all over the runway this spring.  Blake looks fabulous in her bohemian evening gown, but for an everyday look I would suggest wearing your patio dress to a pool party or to brunch with friends.  It's an easy way to look casually cool.  Always pair with flat sandals and an armful of bangles.  Don't forget your oversized sunnies and a crossbody bag.

Our spring wardrobe is really coming together!  Now, all we need is some sunshine!

XO, RC

Boho Chic by dresscodediaries featuring turquoise jewelry

Rocking the wide leg jeans

So, I have this great friend who has a fabulous job at a super cool company.  So cool, in fact, that she can wear jeans to work!  Wouldn't we all love that?  Well, don't be too jealous.  It's actually much more complicated than you would think to put together a fabulously work appropriate jean ensemble.  But, once again, dress code diaries to the rescue! 

As I mentioned in my pantsuit post, one of my favorite spring trends is definitely the wide leg pant.  Universally flattering and utterly cool, this trend is one that you must take advantage of this season.  In particular, the wide leg jean is making a huge comeback.  Luckily for my friend (and you other lucky ducks who can wear jeans to work...even if it's just on casual Friday), this is a perfect trend for the workplace! 

While the wide leg jean is quintessentially '70s (and I am ever-inspired by that time period), be careful to pair them with very modern accessories so as to not look like you are in costume.  For me, the easiest way to do that is to add rocker-chic accessories.  A beautiful sheer blouse with a fitted blazer and chain accessories creates the perfect look.  In fact, while perfectly work appropriate, this would also be a fabulous date night look!  That's what we love....fashionable versatility! 


XO, RC

Rocking the wide leg jeans by dresscodediaries featuring vintage clothing handbags

Bring on the Spring - Rainbow Bright!

 One of the things I love most about spring fashion is the color!  I know that sounds crazy coming from me, a girl who generally seems to find herself in head-to-toe black.  But, it's true!  Nothing says spring like a light, bright wardrobe.  Generally this is done through bold prints a la Missoni or Pucci.  But, this season it's all about the mixing of vivid solids. A Turquoise blouse with a bright green skirt or hot pink pants with a saffron blazer.  While this could easily veer into clown territory, keeping the accessories minimal and adding something neutral (a nude blouse or shoes) will keep you chic.   Also, to keep your look luxe, be certain that you mix and match quality materials in classic cuts. Here are a few of my favorites from the runway:

Aquilano + Rimondi - Spring 2011

Burberry - Spring 2011

Loewe - Spring 2011

Gucci - Spring 2011

Nina Ricci - Spring 2011

Maxmara - Spring 2011

And here is my take on the trend. A gauzy royal puple blouse with a dupioni hot pink skirt....it's enough fabulous color to make me retire my black staples!  Bring on the Spring!

Rainbow Brights by dresscodediaries featuring wrap watches