Blog: Crossroads Style

Black is the new black, neutrals are in, and no one will ever say no to a classic monochromatic look. Still, adding a pop of color is a fun way to elevate an otherwise simple outfit. Below are three ways to liven up your neutral outfit with accessories and small details, without having to go head-to-toe in bright colors.

A Statement Bag
A statement bag is the ultimate accessory for livening up your outfit and show off your fun taste.

Fun, Flirty Shoes
Step up your shoe game with some bright colors and lively details.

It’s All in the Details
Let your outfit’s details do the talking for you. Add a small neck scarf or find pieces with interesting color elements or embroidery.

What’s your favorite way to add color to a neutral outfit?

The bomber is the jacket of the spring/summer season and I want to make sure that you have plenty of options for mixing it into your wardrobe. I consider it the perfect lightweight transitional piece: it works with everything from denim to a silk dress. Check out my round up below for tips on how to add a bomber into your wardrobe.

 Dress it Up
Throw a bomber jacket over a dress to create a balance between tomboy and street style.

Oversized
Take it back to the ‘90s and find an oversized bomber to create contrast with fitted outfits.

Vibrate Prints and Colors
Use your jacket to add a burst or print of color to your basics.

Keep it Classic
When all else fails, throw a bomber jacket over your basics to reach ultimate cool girl status.

If you not only love fashion as a form of self-expression, but also find the ins and outs of the industry itself fascinating, you may find yourself wanting to go beyond blogs and fashion magazines. Good news: it’s easy to delve further!

I’ve rounded up my five favorite books about fashion and style below. These books give a behind-the-scenes look at the industry from those who have essentially created it from the ground up, and from those whose lives it has deeply impacted. From development to photography to marketing, you’ll get all kinds of influential fashion commentary.

1. Women in Clothes, by Sheila Heti, Heidi Julavits, Leanna Shapton, and more
Get thought-provoking perspectives on fashion from those who know it best: women like you. The authors of this book surveyed over six hundred women about their views on fashion, giving us wonderfully revealing conversations about what fashion can say, and how it can impact your life.

2. Mario Testino: In Your Face, by Mario Testino
This book is filled with photos of the most fabulous fashion moments and will make the most gorgeous coffee book table. You’ll want to open and read it over and over again.

3. The Sartorialist: Closer, by Scott Schuman

I love street style shots more than any high fashion or runway photography. I love seeing how real people in this world dress and express themselves. If you do too, then this book—from renowned street style photographer Scott Schuman—is for you.

4. I’ll Drink to That: A Life in Style, with a Twist, by Betty Halbreich
Betty spent forty years of her life as a personal shopper at Bergdorf Goodman, and she has the stories to prove it. Hilarious, charming, and personal, Betty chronicles how she has been able to help women learn how to find their true selves with the help of fashion.

5. Champagne Supernovas: Kate Moss, Marc Jacobs, Alexander McQueen and the 90s Renegades Who Remade Fashion, by Maureen Callahan
There will never be another decade like the ‘90s. In my humble opinion, it was the best decade for fashion and music, and the last before technology overtook our lives. This book chronicles the best of the best in its unique fashion culture.

If you haven’t been watching the new HBO show Vinyl, block out your weekend for some serious bingeing. The music industry-based show is not only written well, its ’70s era fashion is downright enviable, especially in a time when the resurgence of these trends can’t ignored.

Vinyl has been a style inspiration since the series premiere in February, and it’s no wonder why. The show’s costume designer, John Dunn, who has previously worked on shows like Mad Men and Boardwalk Empire (both with perfect vintage styling too), has recreated the era’s fashion with brilliant execution; the looks are gritty, glamorous, and rebelliously rock and roll. You can learn more about how Dunn has been able to revive the ’70s for HBO here and here.

Check out my top 10 favorite looks from the series so far!