STYLE + FASHION

ALL THAT SPARKLES: HOW TO ADD PRETTY SEQUINS TO YOUR WARDROBE

by Michel Van Devender February 1, 2022

Well, we’re officially in February now, the shortest month of the year that seems like the l o n g e s t month. Is it just me? Sequins are probably not on your radar, but I’m forever thinking about these pretty little shiny disks, and how I can incorporate them into my outfits.

I’ve always loved a little shimmer and a little sparkle. Whether it’s a found vintage sequin dress, a consignment store sequin jacket or a Zara sequin top, they are all fun, versatile additions to any closet. Many of my sequin pieces, I’ve had for years and a couple of them I’ve even had to repair. A little goes a long way and all you need is a couple of key pieces.

If you don’t own any sequins or you do, but aren’t sure how to wear them, let’s talk about how to add some pretty sequins to your wardrobe. First off, just like fur, sequins are for more than just special occasions. So please do not reserve your sequins for holidays only. They can be worked into your weekly or monthly rotation, year-round. In my wardrobe book, they are always on trend and in season.

Don’t know where to start? Know there are many sequin options out there… tops, skirts, pants, shorts, dresses, shoes, even accessories (scarfs, belts, handbags, hats, etc.), it’s basically just a matter of figuring out what works for you. I would venture to say there are sequins to fit every wardrobe and style though.

Sequins can be dressed up or down. If I’m planning my outfit for an occasion or event, I’m a big fan of a sequin dress, short, long or somewhere in between. I love the fancy ones too. With the right shoes and simple jewelry, it’s pretty easy and you’re all set. But, you don’t have to go all out with sequins. I also love the mix of sequins with something more casual. Think sequin top paired with some perfectly worn, ripped jeans or a sequin skirt with a graphic t-shirt and tennis shoes. If your style is more understated, try an accessory like a sequin scarf, belt or clutch.

And, one of my absolute favorite things about sequins is not only can they elevate your outfit, but they can also elevate your mood. If you’re sparkling, how can you not glow and give off all the good vibes?!?

Here are some of my favorite sequin pieces and combos. Thank you for reading along. Hoping you’ll find some pretty shimmery good vibe inspiration for yourself here! Let’s do this February thing!

P.S.

If you’d like to take a little peek inside my closet and learn more about my own personal style, check out the recent feature in SouthPark Magazine – CLOSET CRUSH: Michel Van Devender.

TOPS

SKIRTS

PANTS

DRESSES

JACKETS

AND AN ACCESSORY

Featured top image via zsazsabellagio.com

STYLE + FASHION

I HAVE A BIG STYLE CRUSH: ERIN WASSON EDITION

by Michel Van Devender January 12, 2022

Yes, I have a big style crush on Erin Wasson. If you’re not familiar with her, please allow me to introduce you. With a successful modeling career that’s spanned 25 years, Erin has graced countless runways and top magazine covers as well as been the face for many a brand and ad campaign (like Gucci, Valentino, Chanel). She’s also a stylist and art collector as well as an entrepreneur with her own line of jewelry and boots.

With her free-spirited, rocker chic gypsy vibe, Erin exudes laid-back, effortless cool. Like she’s not working to be cool, she just is. I definitely have a thing for her beachy, sun-kissed tousled locks and her “just running an errand/walking the dog” street style. But there’s definitely more, Erin’s home interiors also reflect an equally as enviable soulful, eclectic style.

From her wardrobe, to her Malibu digs to her Venice Beach abode to her NYC apartment, it’s just all so good! Erin manages to put it all together, creating an aesthetic with lots of edge, interest and style. It’s all an imperfect curation, a little undone, with some well worn boots thrown into the mix. Erin is a Texas gal, so count on a little cowgirl too.

Here are some of my favorite Erin fashion moments, followed by her every evolving, soulful abodes.

ERIN’S CLOSET STYLE

ERIN’S HOME STYLE

MALIBU

Images via – Architectural Digest; Photography – Christopher Patey

NEW YORK

Images via – Paige Wassel

VENICE BEACH

Images via – Because I’m Addicted

Top featured image via bellamumma.com.

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STYLE + FASHION

21 FAUX FUR COATS THAT WILL ALWAYS BE IN STYLE

by Michel Van Devender September 17, 2021

Yes, yes + yes to all of the faux fur coats! I’m already feeling all warm and fuzzy just writing that. The textured goodness of these statement pieces adds a touch of style and luxury, immediately elevating an outfit. And let’s be real, they are just stylish and fun to wear, not to mention some of the coziest coats I own.

Over the years, faux furs have become closet stables. You cannot go wrong adding several of these to your wardrobe. Whether you opt for classic brown or black, a sherpa, an animal print or one of the various colors, the faux fur is versatile and can be dressed up or down.

So, please summer, be gone already as I’m patiently (kind of) waiting over here for colder weather so I can break out all of my faux fur coats. By the way, I’ve been known to pair one of mine with flannel pajama pants too! And, I’m always up for adding a couple more to my collection… eyeing some of the 21 styles below. Which is your favorite?

STYLE + FASHION

I HAVE A BIG STYLE CRUSH: JENNA LYONS EDITION

by Michel Van Devender December 14, 2020

The crushing all started way back in 2009/2010… way before her HBO reality/documentary show, “Stylish with Jenna Lyons,” hit the airwaves. If you didn’t already know, Jenna Lyons is actually the woman who made J. Crew cool. She was responsible for adding a little personality and a lot of twist to a mainstream, otherwise bland brand… yawn. After her departure I might add, J. Crew, you’re right back there.

Jenna’s no one-trick pony either. She really caught my attention when I discovered we share a love for interior design. Her Brooklyn townhouse was widely featured in various design publications. Who could possibly forget her ink black painted bedroom and adjoining bathroom walls? Inspired by her walk on the dark side, I (along with droves of other people), painted my bedroom, obviously, black! Several years ago, Jenna renovated and designed a very different, but equally as covetable SoHo apartment. Some of my favorite features are the green hallway, the brass kitchen cabinets, the pink living room sofa and that over-the-top opulent marble bathroom (insert drooling emoji).

Her epitomize style is one part prep, one part funk, one part classic, one part trendy with a gracious side of quirky. Jenna is a tall walking study in contrasts, and she always manages to pull it off – and together. She successfully projects this oh so effortless chic. Ms. Lyons’ style encompasses more than just her clothes and home decor though, it’s also an attitude and personality. It’s the entire package – the glasses, the long legs, her shoe collection, her sense of humor, the honesty with a side of F-bombs and her seemingly kind heart. It’s all of this that makes her so darn lovable and enviable.

Anyone else been a long time crushing on Jenna Lyons?

Jenna's Fashion Sense

Jenna's Homes

Brooklyn Brownstone

Brownstone images via sukio.com

Soho Loft

Loft images via katieconsiders.com

STYLE + FASHION

EASY, EFFORTLESS STYLE: ENTER THE MAXI DRESS

by Michel Van Devender April 10, 2020

Ahhh, the arrival of spring with all of its splendor… the bright green lushness, vegetable garden planting season, the warmer temps AND maxi dresses! This time each year they make their way to the front of my closet, ready for rotation. Whatever your style, I consider these to be a wardrobe stable. It’s my go-to spring and summer outfit, being super comfortable and easy to wear. They work equally as well with trainers, sandals and flip flops. Add accessories and, with little effort, you have a stylish, pulled together look.

Spring is and has felt pretty different this year with the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s easy to get weighed down by the heaviness of everything. The beauty that comes with the changing seasons and the creativity of fashion brings a little joy to my corner of the world and a much needed break from our current reality. I typically add a couple of new pieces each season to freshen up my wardrobe, but with all of the looming uncertainty, I will mostly be shopping in my closet and using what I already have. That strategy actually works fine for me as I rarely wear clothes “hot off the rack”. My wardrobe is a collection of newer and vintage pieces, some of which I’ve had in my closet for over 20 years and still wear.

Since most of us aren’t leaving the house, but for essential needs, getting dressed in anything but pajamas and leisure wear may not be top of mind for you. I totally get it and can relate. For me, in these times, I’m finding putting on real clothes several times a week completely changes my energy and lifts my spirits. Who couldn’t use a little boost right about now? So, I’m quarantined at home, sheltering in place and dreaming about maxi dresses! It’s a nice, albeit brief distraction. Here are some of my favorites from my Pinterest “fashion inspiration” board, mostly from years past, and so many are out of my budget. But again, I’m dreaming!

STYLE + FASHION

SCARVES: THE ACCESSORY I CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT

by Michel Van Devender December 19, 2019

One Accessory

Are you bored with your wardrobe and don’t want to spend a lot of money purchasing new clothes or shoes? Or are looking for ways to energize your wardrobe and step up your fashion game? Well, do I have an inexpensive, stylish solution for you… scarves! You might be thinking scarves are from another era, no longer en vogue. Maybe your mom, grandmother or Great Aunt Pearl wore them, and you never imagined yourself sporting one. Perhaps you just don’t think of yourself as a scarf person. They’ve never fit your style. I get it! I will say that I see the scarf as a classic accessory that can fit anyone’s personal style and budget. And as beautiful as they are, I’m not talking about an Hermes or other pricey designer brands. I don’t believe I’ve ever paid over $30 for a scarf, and most often, mine are in the $10-$12 price range, less if it’s a really good, lucky vintage score. If you’re willing to try something outside of your norm, a scarf can be a fun place to experiment with your style and expand your wardrobe without the big dollar signs.

I’ll Take The Scarves

From an early age, I was surrounded by stylish people – my mom, my grandmother, aunts, a neighbor and countless friends. Many of them wore scarves, each in their own unique way. Without a doubt, the inspiration from my childhood has influenced my style and design aesthetic today. I’m definitely a scarf gal. It is one accessories that I cannot live without, a wardrobe staple! I have a treasure trove of new and vintage scarves in all different shapes, sizes, textures, colors and patterns that has grown in number over the years. I have been a devotee of these small, magical swatches of fabric since my late teens.

The Style Magic

A scarf is impactful in that it can easily transform an outfit and a collection can enhance a wardrobe. A very basic outfit can be elevated by adding a beautiful floral or graphic printed scarf. They can be worn in so many different ways. Scarves are relatively inexpensive, providing a lot of style bang for your buck. For all of these reasons, it’s the one accessory that everyone should have in their closet, both women and men. Minimal space is needed to accommodate a scarf collection as they can be displayed in small baskets or tucked away in a dresser drawer.

So, give the often unappreciated and ignored scarf a chance! Start by purchasing just one or bring the scarves you own out of hiding… play around and get creative! You may even thank me later!

A Scarf Worn Seven Ways

This Madewell striped bandana (as they call it) was only $12.50 (and it sold out before I could get this posted!). The size and shape of your scarf will determine how you can wear it. This one is a square which tends to provide the most styling options.