New Year's Eve Outfit Ideas

(photo Chictopia user: LAPETITEBLONDE)

Ordinarily, right around this day in the year I'd be saying something like, "Oh my!  I can't believe this year is over and it's already going to be a whole new year!!!"  And then I'd take a retrospective of what I've done the past year, wonder how the time went by so fast, and vow to do even more in the coming year.

This year is different.  Very different.  Instead of looking in the past and wondering where the time went, I've never looked more into the future and been more welcoming of the new year!  This past year had it's challenges and blessings, but I am so ready for 2014, which I know will be beyond my wildest dreams amazing!  And hopefully, you feel that way too.

photo Chictopia user: LISSAKAHAYON

That brings me to the next important point... what to wear!  Ushering in a new year might be no biggie for some, and all biggie for others.... but one thing is sure, adding some glitz, glam, and bling to your NYE outfit never hurt anyone!

photo Chictopia user: MADAMEDEROSA

You can opt for the all-over sparkle of a mini dress, go for something daring and backless for an unexpected switch-up, or mix your sparkle with something equally dramatic like this larger-than-life red whispy maxi skirt.

And if you're just not that into the whole glitter/sequin look, I recommend the never fail shift dress.  You'll see a lot of black dresses, and silver, so how about something fire engine red to really stand out and make your presence, and future, known!

photo Chictopia user: MEGGSTATUS

What will you be wearing for New Year's Eve?  Instagram me pics of your outfits @SpankieValentine

Posted by:  SV

Season Stocking Stuffers

(Photo: The Art of the Perfect Gift by Saidhbhe Berry)

 

Christmas is now behind us, but it is never too late for gift giving. This season is filled with tons of cozy goodies for those near and dear to your heart. From woven knit scarves to simple knee high socks, accessories bring comfort and joy for the holiday season. Here are some stocking stuffers that aim to please.

Porthole Cozy Infinity Scarf: Boost up any outfit with a warm knit infinity scarf. Need an extra gift for mother dearest? Slip in this must-have winter piece.

 

Bundle Burst Thigh High Socks: Thigh highs are perfect for transitioning summer pieces into colder seasons. Match up any daytime dress with these lengthy wonders and you’re golden.

 

Basket Head Beanie: December wouldn’t be complete without a full beanie to keep the head warm. This woven knit accessory screams perfection.

 

Winter Landscape Gloves: When the weather hits below fifty degrees, a sturdy pair of gloves come in handy. The holiday print gives these babies a look to remember.

 

 

All accessory items can be found on http://www.urbanog.com

Posted By: Christine K.

 

 

Congratulations to this week's winner, Jessica Lundy Howell!

Thank you to all who entered our weekly Free Shoes Giveaway. Congratulations to this week's winner, Jessica Lundy Howell!

To enter our weekly Free Shoes Giveaway, visit our Facebook and follow the instructions. Link does not work on mobile devices. Good luck!

Shine On: New Years Eve Dresses

New Years Eve is fast approaching and you know what that means. It’s about that time to hunt for the perfect piece to ring in another year.

 

Sequins and mesh are a must to wrap up 2013 and what better way to show off these trends then with some of our holiday appropriate pieces.

 

 

To achieve a walking disco ball vibe, aim for sequins. These must-have dresses scream glitz and glamour, and you’ll be dancing across the floor in no time.

 

Become an instant hit during the countdown with these ‘life of the party’ dresses. Jacquard and graphic prints add a lovely touch, especially when in theme with the New Year. You can also incorporate some mesh for a sassy yet tasteful appearance.

 

Looking for the perfect holiday attire can be a headache in itself, but these Urban OG pieces will keep you feeling at ease in time for the big event.

 

Posted by: Christine K

Marc Jacob's Final Campaign for Louis Vuitton

(photo: Louis Vuitton)

Hard to believe that the 16 year legacy of Marc Jacobs designing for Louis Vuitton has finally reached its close.  But though we have to say goodbye to one of our favorites for the fashion label, he's left us with one final campaign for the spring 2014 collection, and we couldn't be more thankful.

With lovely faces of star power like Gisele Bundchen, Catherine Deneuve, and Sofia Coppola, all of whom have had a long and luscious relationship with the brand, we're left to pause a moment at the lovely headshots taken, featuring the collections new handbags.

(photo: Louis Vuitton)

The shots were taken by photographer Steven Meisel on a subdued charcoal color studio backdrop.  The wardrobe is demure, elegant, and portrays the same mood as the looks on the women's faces:  restraint.  The campaign takes on an almost retrospective tone, as if to say, take a moment, settle down, and quietly pay homage to the the legacy of Marc Jacobs, that will cary on long beyond his departure.

(photo: Louis Vuitton)

(photo: Louis Vuitton)

(photo: Louis Vuitton)

What do you think of the campaign?

Posted by:  SV

Congratulations to this week's winner, Jennifer Ann Hayden!

Thank you to all who entered our weekly Free Shoes Giveaway. Congratulations to this week's winner,  Jennifer Ann Hayden!
 To enter our weekly Free Shoes Giveaway, visit our Facebook and follow the instructions. Link does not work on mobile devices. Good luck!

Winter Holiday Outfit Tips

(photo: Chictopia user SAZANBARZANI)

The holiday season is right on top of us now!  Like, seriously.  How many holiday party invites have you had so far, and they just keep coming.  Or even if you only plan on spending some time with family and away from the party scene, we still need something to wear.  So here are some of my favorite holiday/winter styles to get some inspiration from.

First things first.... the little black dress.  Er, rather... the little metallic dress!  That's right... this season, I think it's a great time to ditch the oh-so-classic black dress, and go for something that shimmers and sparkles.  There's so much glitz in the air, what with all the lighting decorations, tinsel, snowflakes and what not, that capturing that feeling in your dress is the perfect way to go.  Opt for something long sleeve, like the photo above, to give you a little extra warmth, and even pair the dress with some darker toned tights to keep the legs warm.  When wearing metallics and sequin dresses, keep your accessories like your bag and shoes minimal.  Solid colors work best so as not to detract attention from your smokin' hot dress.

(photo: Chictopia user DENTELLEFLEURS )

Got something a little more casual or office friendly to attend?  And want to work in some of the classic holiday colors without looking like a reindeer?  Look no further than the inspiration from the above photo.  We all know the traditional season's colors are varieties of greens and reds, but pairing them together is just too obvious.  That's why I love taking this hunter green dress, and pairing it with a mustard coat.  The color combo is ultra chic and a refreshing surprise, while still tapping into the holiday greenery.  

A slightly boxy shaped silhouette and high neckline make this dress friendly for the office or a family get-together, and the pockets add a casual element to the look.  Pair with sheer tights, again, for warmth, and simple accessories to complete the look.

(photo: Chictopia user NOELLEDOWNING)

Lastly, I don't think the winter holiday season can be complete without incorporating some plaid.  You can work in plaid in many different ways, like a plaid coat, scarf, tote, or in this example, a skirt.  Plaid is festive, with a proper tailored twist, and transitions great through the season as a work, school, and family friendly print.  

I adore plaid skirts when paired with dark tights.  The addition of the deep chocolate loafers and chunky bag were a great pairing.  Tuck in a button down, collared blouse to keep the look polished, and top off with your favorite sweater cardigan for warmth.

What do you think of the looks?  Ready to hit the holidays?

Posted by:  Spankie V