Pictured clockwise from the left: Hemlut Lang sweater, BB Dakota vest, 3.1 Phillip Lim jacket, LD Tuttle booties, Rag & Bone/JEAN jeans.

Fall is coming and I’m looking to refresh my wardrobe with things that are cool but not too trendy. What are your fall must-haves?

Fall is the perfect time to update your wardrobe with stylish investment pieces. The key is to look for classic silhouettes and time-tested styles. Check out my top five recommendations for a fashion-filled season.

GO ANYWHERE BOOTIE
Finding a walkable and fashionable shoe is the driving passion of footwear fanatics everywhere. The marbled suede exterior and stable, cushioned footbed of the LD Tuttle booties pictured go the distance in both style and comfort.

LAYERING KNIT
Soft knits anchor an autumn look in casual, cozy warmth.  An asymmetrical Helmut Lang sweater tosses easily into a handbag and is perfect for pulling together an effortless look.

DISTRESSED JEANS
A staple in any wardrobe, a great pair of distressed jeans lends a pinch of edge to any jean look. A pair from Rag & Bone/JEAN has a fantastic fit and a hint of stylish attitude

EASY OVERCOAT
A chill in the air means warm layers. To avoid getting lost in a big puffy coat, reach for a sleek silhouette with minimalist details. 3.1 Phillip Lim has slim styles that complement your everyday looks without adding bulk.

FUR VEST
A fur vest—or faux fur, like one from BB Dakota—is a great option for both inside and outside wear. These styles can be oversized, so keep your other layers fitted to balance out the silhouette. .

--Loni

Pin It

I am big into the music scene. How can I incorporate that part of my life into my everyday style?

Our household lives for music, and lucky for me, my darling husband did an excellent job collecting concert t-shirts over the years. I’ve managed to covertly snag several for myself, but if you don’t have the same rich resource, there are plenty of options for showing off your musically inclined style.

Rare vintage tees have become valuable to fans of music and fashion—especially the ones that have been worn and washed to a perfect thread-bare fade. Actual vintage tees, like the ones from WGACA Vintage, come with a price. This has everything to do with rarity and demand. Amazing tees came out of the late ’70s and ’80s, from great bands with rabid fans who are insatiable when it comes to collecting.  If you’re not up for making an investment, try a fun reproduction Chaser tee. Printing techniques and new processes for creating jersey knits make it possible to get a worn-in look without buying used.  Pair your new (or new-old) tee with your favorite denim, a great bootie or edgy heel, and some subversive jewelry. 

--Loni

Shop WGACA Vintage tees.
Shop Chaser tees.

Pin It

Look 1: Alice + Olivia Jacket, Chaser tee, J Brand jeans, MM6 clutch, Steven flats. Look 2: Preen dress, Salvatore Ferragamo flats, Rebecca Minkoff clutch. Look 3: MM6 shirtdress, B-Low The Belt belt, Tory Burch bag, Rachel Zoe flats. Styled by Loni and Rachel.

I’m really not a heels girl, but I have a few dates coming up and I want to look polished and sexy. Do you have any tips for looking great while rocking flats?

Good for you for staying true to yourself! Fashion has never embraced flats as much as they have now. With the wide range of options, it’s easy to send the same styling messages as pumps.  

DRINKS & A MOVIE
A low-pressure movie date is the perfect opportunity to show off an edgier look. Studded red Steven flats have a polished pointed toe and an adventure-ready feel. A ladylike Alice + Olivia jacket, skinny jeans, and a graphic tee finish this easy, put-together look.

MEET THE PARENTS
Meeting the parents can be a stressful date. Make it easy on yourself by falling back on the classics. A Preen dress is ladylike and chic, and patent Salvatore Ferragamo flats are stylish, yet easy-going. Keeping a sense of humor is really important. Inject a peek of your fun personality with quirky jewelry or a Rebecca Minkoff snake-print clutch.

DAYTIME COFFEE DATE
For a causal daytime meet-up, you want to send a carefree, casual vibe. A loose MM6 Maison Martin Margiela shirtdress with a neutral belt will really make a pair of bold flats—Rachel Zoe has several colorful options—shine as the statement piece. Plus, wearing flats means you’ll be up for any post-coffee plans that might pop up.

--Loni

Pin It

I have a class reunion coming up, and I want an outfit that looks effortless, yet fantastic. Can you help?

It just so happens that I have a reunion coming up as well! Reunion outfits require a thoughtful approach. I put my stock in age-appropriate, timeless wardrobe essentials that incorporate right amount of trend. It’s so important to be comfortable and true to yourself. This is not the moment to test run “the new you.”

If the reunion is right around the corner, go with a fresh Jenni Kayne shift dress. Universally flattering and versatile, the shift is a good go-to for ladies of all age groups. Pair it back to sleek Loeffler Randal flats, toss on an open-knit cardigan, and reach for simple ginette_ny jewelry. For a casual, late summer or fall reunion, I love the idea of sharp denim, a great moto jacket, and heeled booties. An IRO jacket brings a little color to the look while still staying chic and neutral. If your get-together is more of a dressed-up affair, then a sleek knit 3.1 Phillip Lim dress is always a great option. The sleeves ensure you won’t be cold as we head into fall, and the length and fitted silhouette give it a bit of attitude. Pair it with a heeled bootie, easy-to-manage clutch, and a striped Boy. by Band of Outsiders blazer.

--Loni

Check out other Ask Shopbop features for more of Loni’s style tips.

Pin It

Hi Shopbop! I’m tired of wearing my same old clothes to the farmers market. How can I mix it up?

I am a sucker for a great farmers market: the people watching, fresh produce, and relaxed atmosphere make for a perfect urban adventure. You never quite know who you’ll run into, so looking your casual best is key. A striped denim J Brand skirt is dressed up just enough for an impromptu lunch date and a gauzy Rachel Allegra top holds up for a quick lap through a museum gift shop. Look for shoes with soft, blister-free straps—K. Jacques has great options. And finally, make sure to bring a slouchy tote with room for fresh flowers, tomatoes, and all your other summer market finds.

--Loni

Pin It

I am in a scarf-tying rut. What are some fun new ways I can wear my summer scarves?

A lightweight scarf is one of the most versatile pieces of summer. I keep them stashed everywhere! From a style perspective, they can transform an ensemble, and more practically speaking, they’re perfect cover-ups for cool evenings or a chilly office. The styling options are pretty endless, but I narrowed it down to my top three suggestions.
 
NECK SCARF
When the weather is not too hot, and you are looking for a little more sun protection, a neck scarf is a great option. Lightweight Thakoon Addition scarves cover without adding bulk.
How to wear it: Casually twist the scarf and wrap it once so the two loose ends are hanging down. Tie the ends messily off to one side and untwist where you want more coverage.

HEAD WRAP
The beach is a perfect time to pull inspiration from the ’70s and wear your scarf as a head wrap. Not only will it protect your hair and scalp from the sun, but it looks effortlessly glamorous.
How to wear it: Fold the scarf into a triangle and then roll the folded edge a few times to shorten the scarf (if your scarf is already short, skip the rolling). Tie the ends into a loose bow over your hair at the nape of the neck. Be sure to keep some hair hanging out or you’ll end up in pirate territory.

WRAP SKIRT
When truly sticky-hot weather hits, you’ll want as few layers as possible. With a few folds and knots, a gauzy scarf transforms into an airy, breezy skirt.
How to wear it: Fold a large scarf into a long triangle. Center yourself so your hip hits the scarf in the middle, at its longest point. Pull the scarf around your waist and let the longs ends drop to the sides. Gather material close to your hip to create faux ends on each side (if you tie the real ends, the skirt with either fall off or be very risqué). Tie the faux ends in a secure bow, grab a cool beverage, and enjoy the summer.

--Loni

Pin It

The summer heat is here, and I'd really like to add shorts to my work wardrobe. How can I style them in an appropriate, professional way?

When it gets hot, typical suits can be torturous. Ditch the skirt separates and still-too-hot dresses and push the style envelope with these simple tips for wearing shorts to work. 

PRETTY & NEUTRAL
Test the fashion waters in your office with a soft, ladylike look. Feminine styles tend to be more demure than sex-kitten—a must for the office.  Pair creamy, vintage-inspired Pencey shorts with a floral or pastel Equipment blouse. Gold jewelry, a feminine shoe, and soft hair complete the vision.

BOLD & REFINED
In a more creative workspace, bold colors and prints offer a nice opportunity to create a look that matches.  It will feel pulled-together and thoughtful, two concepts that are applauded in workwear.  Pick a fun print style, Rebecca Minkoff shorts are a great choice, and match them back to a sharp blazer. Opting for a simple hairstyle will offset the boldness of the look.

LONG & LADYLIKE
If short shorts don’t cut it in your office, then simply go longer.  Metallic DVF Bermuda shorts stay flattering with a slim cut, plus the hint of sparkle looks more formal than your standard vacation version.  Pair with a ladylike Elie Tahari top to steer clear of a disco vibe, and finish with heels to keep things confident. 

--Loni

Pin It

From after work drinks to picnics in the park, I have a ton of summer events I’d like to ride my bike to. How can I keep my sense of style and still safely ride?

As avid riders ourselves, the key truly is having the right bike. An upright cruiser will allow for the most versatility in your biking wardrobe. Throw on a chain guard and a fender (to limit splash,) and you can rock a white maxi dress with confidence. Temperature can vary from when you arrive and when you leave, so stick to light layers—think cottons and linens—and always bring a cardigan or Current/Elliott denim jacket. Cross-body bags are the easiest to balance, but if you can sit up straight, a sturdy Mar Y Sol tote works too. As for shoes, flat sandals are chic and safe, but if your bike skills are on par with Lance, mix it up and push your pedals in wedge L.A.M.B. sandals.

--Loni & Karina

Pin It

I’m going on a first date and have no idea what to wear! I want to look fashionable, but not like I’m trying too hard. Do you have any suggestions?

First date looks are always challenging, but so much fun!  A blend of comfortable and flirty is key, and most of all, you have to be yourself.   

OUTDOOR CONCERT
If your first date involves one of summer’s many outdoor concerts, anchor your look with great pair of jeans. Low-rise skinny jeans with a strong cuff give off a rock-and-roll sensibility. Pair them with an easy T by Alexander Wang tee and a cool leather jacket. For shoes, be sure to pick a thicker heel if you’ll be walking in grass, and finish with a casual cross-body bag. 

DINNER & A MOVIE
A classic dinner date is a terrific opportunity to go for that summer sundress. Experiment with pastels, florals, chambray stripes—whatever feels best. Tone down the sweetness and inject an element of personality with some edgy jewelry and for shoes, go with something sexy and tall, like B Brian Atwood pumps.  Finish the look with loose, easy hair. An overdone ’do will take this look into no-man’s land, literally.

FARMERS MARKET
If your first date is a daytime outing at the local farmers market, take the opportunity to show a little leg. Rag & Bone/JEAN cutoff shorts are my favorite. Try them in bold red or stick to classic blue. Toss on a well-loved sweatshirt (for extra credit cut the neck wider for a casual-sexy off-shoulder look) and some Superga sneakers or colorful Matt Bernson sandals.  Finish with your hair tucked up into a summery derby hat.
 
--Loni

Pin It

Rebecca Taylor Dress. Looks styled by Karina and Loni.

I am going to three weddings this summer, and I’d love to make the same dress work for all of them. Any advice to make each look different?

Smart move! With a few simple styling tricks, one versatile dress can easily last through wedding season.

CASUAL
A more casual event means you can have a little fun with a bold print. A bright floral blazer is a great option for a garden wedding. Add a studded belt and fringed B-Low The Belt bag for a hint of edge, and finish the look with loose easy hair.

LADYLIKE
Heels are not a requirement at a fancy affair. Metallic Tibi flats are a stylish alternative, even in a more elegant setting. Show off sparkling, oversized jewelry with a slightly messy top knot, and grab a tiny Lauren Merkin clutch in the same color family as your dress.

FUNKY
If the wedding has a kooky theme or funky locale, don’t be afraid to try a wilder look. Pair a bold blazer in a unique silhouette with print Alice + Olivia pumps, then finish with soft hair and delicate jewelry for a fun and nuptial-friendly look.

The bottom line is to dress well, but be yourself because if you aren’t comfortable, you’re going to have a lousy time.

--Loni

Pin It

I’m going camping and have no idea what to wear. How can I look good but still enjoy the woods?

Camping is definitely an adventure, so you need clothes that move and lots of easy layers. My favorite look is a light cotton dress with Minnetonka moccasins and a Eugenia Kim straw hat for added shade.  Boyfriend jeans are another packable option. They’re comfy and super durable: pair them with a knit hoodie and a printed tee. You can also throw Current/Elliott shorts over a one-piece swimsuit. To ensure a fun and stylish time, just pack lightweight layering pieces, supportive shoes, and most importantly, marshmallows.

--Loni

Pin It

Clockwise from the right: beach, pool, and boat looks. Styled by Kirsten, Rachel, and Loni.

I have a ton of swim parties this summer, how can I stand out at each one?

You know summer’s arrived when the invites to beach and pool parties start piling up. To avoid outfit fatigue, here are my tips to keep your looks fresh from the yard to the yacht.

AT THE BEACH
An outdoor beach party calls for a fun mix of prints and bright colors. Pair a Zimmermann romper and a striped L*Space bikini with a straw tote. The natural elements in the bag and the sporty cut of the suit keep the look casual and BBQ-ready.

IN A POOL
In a more urban setting, you’ll want a more refined look: think sporty sophisticate. Throw a sheer A.L.C. sweater and pattered Torn by Ronny Kobo shorts over a Tyler Rose Swimwear bikini for a modern day-to-night look.

ON A BOAT
Stepping on a boat gives an instant feel of glamour. Channel your inner supermodel and try a sexy Thayer one-piece as a top. Add sheer Dallin Chase pants and a vintage scarf, and await your invite to a certain rap mogul’s White Party.

--Loni

Pin It

I really want to try the lace trend but don’t know which way to wear it. Do you have any suggestions?

I love lace. It’s incredibly versatile. No matter which way you go with it, lace always adds an extra pop of personality. Here are my three favorite ways to incorporate a little lace into any ensemble.

Retro
For a look that reads retro, try suiting separates in a monochromatic, ladylike silhouette. Finish it off with a strappy Jenni Kayne heel or a Rag & Bone flat. Polished jewelry, a structured Tory Burch bag, and sleek hair pull it all together.

Modern
If you’re after something more modern, take lace to a colorblocked or high-contrast place.  Tossing in sharp black accessories against a white or neutral lace DVF dress can really do the trick.  Also try pairing lace with your sharply tailored pieces or leather separates for an edgier mood.

Playful
Lace can be very playful, so don’t be afraid to work in your casual favorites like well-loved tees or distressed denim.  Add a pop of sequins to set the tone, and work with accessories that have a sense of humor, like this shark mouth A.L.C. cuff or fruit slice Marc by Marc Jacobs earrings.

--Loni
 

Pin It

I love ladylike jewelry, but I want to steer clear of the matching pearls aesthetic of a ’50s housewife. How can I get the look in a modern way?

Ladylike jewelry is a timeless staple, and the classic shapes never go out of style. You’re right to want to stay away from matching sets. Mix it up with delicate, vintage-inspired polished stones and metals, feminine details like hearts or pearls, and bright stones or gems for an elegant, contemporary look. Once you pick out your pieces, wear them with jewel-neck jackets, full skirts, party dresses, and brightly colored cardigans. Or you can juxtapose the sweet jewelry with a leather jacket and ripped boyfriend jeans for a playful, edgy look.

--Loni, Kirsten, and Kyla

Pin It

From left to right: The wedge sneaker, the boyish sneaker, and the beach sneaker.

I’m seeing fashion sneakers everywhere but I don’t know if I can pull them off. Any styling tips?

Fashion sneakers are one of the easiest ways to incorporate the sporty trend seen everywhere this spring. We picked out our top three ways to wear those stylish (and comfortable!) sneaks.

THE WEDGE SNEAKER
Attitude: Playful, feminine, and sporty.
Wear with: A pastel blazer inserts feminine appeal while silk shorts balance the sporty feel. Bold graphics on a tee match the boldness of the shoe and a pop of colorful jewelry ties it all together.
Avoid: Showing too much skin. Anything too short and tight and this look can quickly veer into Pretty Woman territory.

THE BOYISH SNEAKER
Attitude: Skate-inspired, tough, and easygoing.
Wear with: A casual skirt balances out the masculinity of the high top, and a striped tank plays up the graphics on the shoe. Spiked gold jewelry finishes the punkish look.
Avoid: An overdose of oversized. Fitted silhouettes keep this style from becoming too masculine.

THE BEACH SNEAKER
Attitude: Island-feel, beachy, undone.  
Wear with: A denim bra top under an open chambray shirt embodies the spirit of island ease. Flowing palazzo pants and antiqued jewelry top off the warm-weather ensemble. 
Avoid: Looking too young. A mature top and raw jewelry keep the sweet shoes from looking girlish.

--Loni and Rachel

Pin It

I am obsessed with hats, but they seem really hard to wear. Do you have any styling tips?

I agree! Hats can really pull a look together, yet they can be intimidating to wear. Here are a few tips for pulling off the look with ease.
 
THE WIDE BRIM FEDORA
Attitude: Casual, outdoorsy, easy, adventurous.
Wear with: Flat sandals, sundresses, earthy jewelry, and slouchy denim.
Hair: Casual, tousled, tucked behind the ear.
Wear to: The beach, a picnic, beer garden, or fishing.

THE SUNHAT
Attitude:  Elegant, lady-like, sexy, glamorous.
Wear with: ’70s-inspired jumpsuits, gold jewelry, flowing maxi dresses.
Hair: Twisted, soft side pony.
Wear to: A garden party, sunset boat ride, or pool-side luncheon.

THE PORK PIE HAT
Attitude: James Dean-esq, casual, cool, effortless.
Wear with: Menswear inspired silhouettes, oxfords, stripes, collared shirts.
Hair: Down, casual, undone.
Wear to: A day festival, vintage shopping trip, or low-key lunch.

--Loni 

Pin It

From left to right: The messy tuck, the clean tuck, and the tie & tuck.

I love the way your stylists tuck blouses. Any tips for how I can get the look at home?

A button-down shirt is one of the most versatile pieces in your closet. While there are hundreds of different ways to style it, check out our top three spring-ready ways to tuck your shirt.

MESSY TUCK
How to do it: Unbutton the top one to two buttons and loosen the collar. Start messily tucking one side of the shirt in, while leaving the other side untucked. Unevenly roll cuffs and push above the elbow. 
Wear with: Low-rise skinny jeans or boyfriend jeans, a straw fedora, delicate jewelry, and flats.
Wear to: A quick morning coffee run, a casual meet-up, or a day full of errands.

CLEAN TUCK
How to do it: Button the shirt up to the collar. Neatly and evenly tuck the entire shirt in. Roll 2-inch cuffs just below the elbow.
Wear with: High-waisted and classic skirts or pants, polished jewelry, and a skinny belt.
Wear to: A professional lunch, an afternoon visit, or brunch with family.

TIE & TUCK
How to do it: Unbutton the top one to two buttons and pop the collar. Neatly roll up the shirt’s bottom hem and tie the front tails together. Roll cuffs and push to the elbow.
Wear with: Eyelet skirt or white denim, bohemian-inspired bracelets, and flat sandals.
Wear to: A day trip to the flea market, a lunch date, or afternoon cocktails.

--Loni

Pin It

I want to get a colorful caftan, but I’m not sure how to wear it off the beach. Any tips? –Susan

Caftans are a personal favorite of mine.  They easily transcend poolside status with the addition of easy, ’70s- inspired denim, like MiH flare jeans with subtle, bohemian details. For a shoe, go for a flat sandal or heel in a neutral palette. Layer on some long Chan Luu necklaces and finish with an oversized clutch and chic circle shades.

--Loni

Do you have a question for our style experts? Leave it in the comments or send it to us on Facebook or Twitter (@Shopbop), and stay tuned each Wednesday for new insider tips.

Pin It

What are some different ways to cuff your jeans? —Shanley

Cuffing your jeans is one of the easiest ways to transition from winter to spring. Here are four techniques to keep your look interesting.

THE MESSY BOYFRIEND
Best for: Slouchy and distressed boyfriend jeans.
How to do it: Create a small roll at the back, then begin rolling and catch the front up to the back. Keep the cuff thin and uneven for a casual, easy look.
Wear with: Unstructured, beat-up ankle boots and sporty booties.

THE CALF CUFF
Best for: Super skinny jeans.
How to do it: Fold the bottom hem up 5 to 7 inches, creating a large single cuff. Pull the bottom of the cuff to straighten wrinkles and even out both legs. The more ankle left exposed, the sexier the look.
Wear with: Tough, ankle-strap heels and playful peep-toe pumps.

THE EASY INCH
Best for: Printed skinny jeans.
How to do it: Make a neat 1-inch fold and roll it once creating a perfect cuff. The crisp cuff balances the bold, flirty print.
Wear with: Textured, heeled booties and strappy sandals.

THE DOUBLE BACK
Best for: Stiletto jeans.
How to do it: Fold the bottom hem up a few inches. Then, fold the hem back over the original cuff leaving some fabric exposed. A perfect edge is not necessary for this preppy warm-weather look.
Wear with: Embellished, flat espadrilles and classic oxfords.

--Loni

Pin It

The halls of Shopbop are brimming with style experts and up until now, we’ve selfishly kept them to ourselves. Not anymore. In our Ask Shopbop features, our fashion doyens will share their sartorial knowledge and answer the burning style questions you posted on Facebook and Twitter. For this inaugural effort, stylist Loni took the helm to talk neon denim and workwear.

From Jenilee: I love the neon jean trend. What should I wear with them?
Loni: Neon jeans are certainly a fun statement piece this season, but it’s an easy trend to botch. One misstep can send you tumbling back to the ’80s when glamour involved big shoulders and even bigger hair. With such a bold jean, a simple top in a solid shade will keep the look chic. Pair bright neon pink jeans with a warm, creamy cotton pullover sweater, then, match the brightness of your denim with a bold shoe. 

From Danielle: How can I incorporate the latest trends into my work wardrobe?
Loni: Incorporating trends into workwear can be tricky, but really fantastic when well executed. One look that transcends the runway and feels right at home at your desk is the sporty trend.  Start with a tailored blazer and add a track- or scuba-inspired skirt, like the geo-printed Tibi skirt. Sport-inspired soles, like these ankle-strap Alexander Wang heels, and a neatly pulled back ponytail finish the look.

Do you have a question for our style experts? Leave it in the comments or send it to us on Facebook or Twitter (@Shopbop), and stay tuned each Wednesday for new insider tips.

--Libby S.

Pin It