Style Inspiration: Floral Delights

Iman attends the 7th Annual Tribeca Film Festival Vanity Fair Party at the State Supreme Courthouse on April 22, 2008 in New York City.

Ashanti and Zoe Kravitz flourish in their floral print garments at recent red carpet appearances.

Black Floral Dress: Rosalie Dress, $44.50, www.delias.com; Sandals: Børn Begonia Sandal, $84.95, www.nordstrom.com; Earrings: Green Anamel Disc Earring, $8.10, www.alltherageonline.com; Corsage: Cabbage Rose Corsage, $20, www.topshop.com; Pink Shirt: Crossover Chiffon Top, $22.80, www.forever21.com; Halter Dress: Fray and Flowers Chiffon Dress, $42.99, www.shoprcuhe.com; Yellow Shirt: Rosette Raceback Shell, $128, www.maxstudio.com; Scarf: Floral Print Pashmina by Roberto Cavalli, $990, www.net-a-porter.com; Necklace: Flower Medallion Necklace, $4.80, www.forever21.com; Ring: Enamel Lily Flower Rings, $9.50, www.oldnavy.com; Skirt: Floral Satin Pleated Skirt, $20, www.oldnavy.com; Pink Dress: Jasley Strapless Floral Dress, $24.80, www.forever21.com; Clutch: Whiting and Davis Leather Flowers Clutch, $185, www.endless.com; Hairband: Silk Flower Headband, $3.80, www.forever21.com; Heels: Adele I Flower Sandal by Ralph Lauren Collection, $574.95, www.endless.com

The last days of summer are upon us so it's only fitting that we say goodbye to the season donning floral pieces that conjure up memories of days gone by. If you really want to make a statement, choose bigger more defined floral prints in bright colors such as neon pink, bright yellow and metallic blues (like Ashanti and Zoe Kravitz). If you just don't have the heart, pick pieces with smaller floral prints in demure colors like red, white, beige and pink. These classics that will last long after the season has gone. Prepare to blossom.

Style Inspiration: Out at Sea

Ciara attends a taping of BET's 106 & Park on July 18, 2007 in New York City.

Amerie and Kelly mix denim with this season's nautical trend.

¾ sleeve top: Aimee Keyhole Top, $13.80, www.forever21.com; Necklace: Wood Anchor Necklace, $8.90, www.forever21.com; Skirt: Rope Belt Pencil Skirt, $64, www.topshop.com; Heels: Letsey, $150, www.dune.co.uk; Hat: Nautical Stripe Newsboy Cap, $22, www.fredflare.com; Sneakers: Chuck Taylor All Satr Patent, $49.69, www.converse.com; Red pants: Multi Button Sailor Pant, $19.99, www.wetseal.com; Dress: Navy Stripe Bow Dress, $56, www.missselfridge.co.uk; Short sleeve top: Stripe V Neck , $9.99, www.charlotterusse.com; Sunglasses: Dita Xanadu Sunglasses, $350, www.shopintuition.com; Bag: Nautical Rope Bag, $26, www.alloy.com; Anklet: Anchor on 9inch Anklet, $5.99, www.girlprops.com; Shorts: High Waisted Sailor Shorts, $22.99, www.charlotterusse.com; White pants: Sound of Summer Trouser, $148, www.fcusbuymail.com; Espadrilles: Candyce Espadrille by Steve Maadden, $149.95, www.endless.com

Anchors away! The nautical trend that’s hit our favorite stores is here to stay (throughout the summer at least). Make like a sailor about to set sea with nautical stripes in navy blue or red; high-waisted, multi button sailor pants and shorts; espadrilles and rope detail accessories. Amerie and Kelly Rowland wore denim with their striped tops and added bright red shoes and accessories to finish the look off. Ciara on the other hand jumped straight into the trend with a sporty-nautical dress and gravity defying wedges. Get some inspiration from my picks above then plan your own trip out to sea!

Credit: Photo of Amerie from theybf.com

Style Inspiration: Good Girl Gone Bad

Rihanna Eats Outside of Da Silvano in New York City on June 19, 2007.

Mya and Cassie channel their bad side with leather and patant respectively.

Turtkeneck: Thalia Top, $19.80, www.forever21.com; Necklace: Mingled Half Moon Necklace, $7.80, www.forever21.com; Hobo Bag: Crescent Ring Brass Studded Hobo, $129.99, www.shoplush.com; Studded Bangle: Studded Bangle, $4, www.charloterusse.com; Belt: Wide Spot Elastic Belt, $50, www.topshop.com; Leather Jacket: Nappa Leather Jacket $3270, www.net-a-porter.com; Red Bangle: Leather And Rivet Wristband, $24, www.topshop.com; Platform Shoes: Trippin, $119.95, www.stevemadden.com; Shorts: Linen High Waist Short, $22.50, www.wetseal.com; Skinny Pants: Piper Embroidered Pocket Pant, $32.50, www.alloy.com; Gloves: Wrist Length Stretch Fishnet Gloves with Dot Pattern, $9.99, www.greatglovesonline.com; Black Vest: Filippa Sequin Top by K Karl Lagerfeld, $290, www.net-a-porter.com; Thigh-High Boots: Black Thigh High Boots, $59.99, www.buycostumes.com; Ruffle Shirt: Chiffon Ruffle Top, $25.50, www.wetseal.com; Ankle Boots: Wrap Bootie, $29.63, www.alloy.com; Clutch: Oversized Distressed Bordeaux Clutch, $46, www.amiciaccessories.com; Chain Bracelet: Brass Knuckle Bracelet, $9.99, www.girlprops.com; Black Bangle: Ruby Panther Bangle by Mawi, $466, www.my-wardrobe.com; White Vest: StarLogoTank, $62, www.blackgirlsrockinc.com

Every girl has a bad side. Yes, even you. Dig deep. It’s in there somewhere! Every now and again we need to mix it up a little wardrobe-wise and nothing does that more than bad ass style. If you need a little help bringing out your wild side, just try throwing on some leather, strap on gravity defying boots, draw on some Amy Winehouse-esque eyeliner and strut like it’s your birthday! Take style tips from the three ladies above. Mya dared to take on leather pants – we all know how unforgiving they can be. She softened the look a little by teaming leather with black, chiffon frills. Cassie walked the red carpet in daring thigh-high, patant boots. And Ms. Rihanna, the undisputed princess of darkness, kept it simple with a black vest and skinny jeans, however her brass knuckle boots by Dsquared² took this look to the next level (the real brass knuckles on her hands didn’t hurt the look either). If this is all a bit too vampish for you, try an alternative take on the “good girl gone bad” theme. This Party dress by the theUrbanCollection.com screams “I’m a non-conformist but I don’t take myself too seriously.” After all, being bad should be fun.

Style Inspiration: Sex and the City, The Movie

Sarah Jessica Parker on the set of 'Sex In The City: The Movie' in New York City on September 21, 2007.

The rest of the cast working it on the set.

Red Coat: Amelia Coat, $49.80, www.forever21.com; Red Bag: Ruched Front Water Repellent Bag by Zagliani, $1210, www.brownsfashion.com; Red Sandals: Fanci, $129.95, www.stevemadden.com; Bangle: Zebra Stripes, $14.40, www.alltherageonline.com; Vest: Solemio Perfectly Pinstriped Vest, $26, www.lulusfashionlounge.com; Pants: Women's Skinny Sateen Capris, $29.50, www.oldnavy.com; Tie: Tie Neck Scarf, $40, www.topshop.com; Brooch: Spinning Petals, $24.30, www.alltherageonline.com; Black Sandals: Charles David Women's Chelle Sandal, $204.95, www.endless.com; Black Dress: Square Sequin Dress by See by Chloe, $925, www.net-a-porter.com; Zebra Sandals: Gallaa, $99.95, www.stevemadden.com; Black Earrings: Wendy Nichol Black Python Hoops, $165, www.ravinstyle.com; Gold Dress: Adrianna Papell Liquid Knit Dress, $196, www.nordstrom.com; Pearl Earrings: Beaded Clip On Studs, $4.80, www.forever21.com; Coat: Moncler’s Fitter Padded Jacket with High Neck, $920, www.brownsfashion.com; Fedora: Faux Suede Fedora Hat, $9.50, www.wetseal.com; Belt: Mini Patent Pyramid Stud Belt, $16.50, www.alloy.com; Floral Dress: Lobelia Dress, $278, www.anthropologie.com; Necklace: Antique Amulet Necklace, $5.80, www.forever21.com; Grey Heels: Crisscross Ankle Strap Sandals by Alejandro Ingelmo, $695, www.intermixonline.com; Silver Bag: Plaited Strap Pumpkin Bag, $60, www.warehousrfashion.co.uk

Sex and the City is back! Although I’m sure you knew this already. I must admit I was disappointed with how the series ended. Yes, I wanted Carrie to end up with “Big” but she made it too easy for him. Let him sweat a little! Now the four ladies have returned and are as stylish as ever. I know I shouldn’t look at the photos of them on the set as it gives everything away, but I can’t help but get my fashion fix. Above I picked some items inspired by the movie so far. You can see more photos from the movie set in the slideshow below. The movie is scheduled to be released next May. I can already hear the opening theme music in my head…

Style Inspiration: Yellow Fever

Rosario Dawson attending a photocall promoting the film "Death Proof" at the Palais des Festivals during the 60th International Cannes Film Festival on May 22, 2007 in Cannes.Beyonce and Rihanna are stunning in Yellow.

Beyonce and Rihanna are stunning in Yellow.

Floral Top: Minime Blouse by Paul and Joe, $428, www.my-wardrobe.com; Shorts: Dobby Short, $78, www.fcusbuymail.com; Flip Flops: Flirty, $25.95, www.bakersshoes.com; Tote Bag: HandStitched Handbag by Orla Kiely, $730, www.my-wardrobe.com; Earrings: Lacquered Double Hoops, $3.80, www.forever21.com; Flats: Groove Tender, $32.50, www.alloy.com; Tunic Dress: Beaded Tunic, $24.80, www.forever21.com; Ruffle Dress: Flyaway Dress in Gold, $39.50, www.alloy.com; Necklace: Layered Enamel Necklace, $12, www.monsoon.co.uk; Floral Dress: Floral Print Strapless Dress by 3.1 Phillip Lim, $430.50, www.net-a-porter.com; Short-Sleeve Top: Short Sleeved Tunic, $20, www.topshop.com; Clutch: Antoinette Lee Yellow Vita Clutch, $231, www.antoinetteleedesigns.com; Wallet: Leather Large Lock Wallet, $30, www.monsoon.co.uk; Peep-toe: Greystones, $99.99, www.aldoshoes.com; Camisole: 2 Pocket Embroidered Cami, $24.50, www.wetseal.com; Bag w/ bow: Gathered Bow Bag, $19.50, www.wetseal.com; Bracelet: Hearts and Ribbons Bracelets, $4.80, www.forever21.com; Sleeveless Top: Indian Top, $78, www.fcusbuymail.com; Skirt: Broderie Anglaise Cotton Skirt, $171.60, www.net-a-porter.com; Platform Heels: Hagopa, $90, www.aldoshoes.com

I was strolling through Forever 21 the other day and every other item on the racks were bright, bright yellow. I think the color looks especially good on our skin. See the ladies above for inspiration and this model in Catherine Malandrino’s Banded Mini Dress (which is sold out at Saks). Like most trends, you don’t have to wear it from head-to-toe. I think a yellow outfit and shoes and a bag is overkill. Make like Rihanna and don a bold, structured yellow top or an A-line skirt or even just accessories.

Note: Also check out these celebrities in Mellow Yellow.

Style Inspiration: Girlie

Jennifer Hudson looking positvely radiant in crisp, fresh colors white and beige.

Genevieve Jones and Eva Pigford show their softer sides in true ‘girlie’ style.

Pink Dress: Charmeuse Dress, $39.50, www.alloy.com; Clutch: Lace Clutch by Chinese Laundry, $40, www.oohboutique.com; Shorts: Eyelet Short, $36.50, www.alloy.com; Ring: Flower Ring, $3.80, www.forever21.com; Heels: Valdivia, $65, www.bandolino.com; Lace Dress: Lace Pearl Beaded Dress by Matthew Williamson, $890, www.net-a-porter.com; White Dress: Brocade Halter Dress, $39.80, www.forever21.com; Bracelet: Charm Bracelet, $35, www.victoriassecret.com; Red Top: Ruffled Collared Tunic, $820, www.brownsfashion.com; Sandal: Frosina, $19.99, www.aldoshoes.com; Tube Dress: Strapless Dress, www.charlotte-russe.com; Yellow Top: Jan Top, $22.80, www.forever21.com; Skirt: Mix Media Skirt, $24.50, www.wetseal.com; Floral Bag: Pacifica Print Bag, $80, www.monsoon.co.uk; Necklace: Heart Pendant from Etoile Collection, $1050, www.tiffany.com; Beaded Braclet: Beaded Braclet Set, 2 for $8, www.charlotte-russe.com; Flats: Jessika, $59, www.chineselaundry.com; Earrings: Angel Wing Earrings, $9.99, www.girlprops.com; Wedges: Ring Wedge Sandal by Exchange by Charles David, $31.79, www.endless.com; Coat: Jacquard Swing Coat, $240, www.warehouse.co.uk; Floral Dress: Secret Garden Tube Dress, $22.80, www.forever21.com

Spring is the perfect season to show off your girlie-girl side. Think light chiffon, delicate prints and plenty of frills. But don’t just concede to stereotypical feminine lace or colors like baby pink. Be bold and opt for greens, bright reds and even add edge to an outfit with some denim (a la Genevieve Jones). Also play with hemlines. Not everything has to be short to be feminine. Long, flowy dresses and skirts are perfect for spring. On another note, I wish Jennifer Hudson had looked this put together on the Oscar’s red carpet. I wonder if Mr. Talley and Ms. Hudson are still friends...

Style Inspiration: Menswear

Kiara Kabukuru wearing the perfect male-inspired suit by Alexander McQueen.
Janet Jackson and Gwyneth Paltrow prove men’s tailoring has an edgier side.
Blue Shirt: Woven Tunic, $22.80, www.forever21.com; Watch: Coleman Silver Analog Digital Watch, $19.99, www.target.com; Tote: Large Burgundy Barclay Tote Purses, $34.95, www.purseboutique.com; Flats: Springfield, $79, www.ninewest.com; Waistcoat: Glen plaid vest, $25, www.newport-news.com; V-Neck: Chloe Cinch V neck, $24.50, www.delias.com; White Shirt: Silk-Trim Pintuck Shirts, $15, www.oldnavy.com; Coat: Wool Trench Coat, $49.50, www.wetseal.com; Pants: Plaid Pant, $32.50, www.alloy.com; Tie: Merona Satin Necktie, $19.99, www.target.com; Ankle Shoes: Syrup, $178, www.kurtgeiger.com; Clutch: Candice, $45.95, www.bakersshoes.com; Slim-Fit Pants: Slim Leg Cut Pants, $118, www.maxstudio.com; Pumps: Christian Python Heel, $22.99, www.gojane.com; Ring: Square Amazonite Ring, $24.99, www.target.com; Blazer: Luxury Stretch 1 Button Jacket, $128, www.expressfashion.com; Braces: Visit www.ebay.com; Hat: Herringbone Newsboy Ivy Hat, $15.95, www.goomoo.com; Tee: Naughty but Nice Tee, $4.99, www.wetseal.com

Menswear goes beyond tailored suits and shirts. Think hard lines, muted tones and an over-all polished look. However, don’t be fooled into thinking that you can’t be versatile when playing around with mens clothing. Put your own spin on it by wearing bright colors, a cute tee under a blazer (a la Gwyneth) or invest in a pair of braces (suspenders) and team with a fitted shirt to add a feminine twist to your look. I love the ‘ankle shoes’ by Kurt Geiger, they’re the perfect example of feminine elegance fused with masculine chic.

Style Inspiration: Asia

Vanessa Williams (pictured with her son Haile) looks stunning in this Kimono dress… love the color combination.
Amerie and Nicole prove that Asian-inspired clothing is perfect for casual and formal wear.
Shorts: Satin Cuffed Shorts, $39.00, Rampage; Skirt: Gold Skirt, $89.00, Zara; Puffball Dress: Iridescent Taffeta Origami Bubble Dress, $398.00, www.maxstudio.com; Short-sleeved Dress: Satin Wrap Dress, $24.80, Forever 21; Gold Earrings: Long Disc with Chains, $5.99, www.girlprops.com; Red Purse: Red Snowflake Small Coin Purse, $16.95, www.mfashop.com; Gold Dress: Sylphes Dress, $298.00, Anthropologie; Hair Pin: Swarovski Crystal Lizard Barette, $7.99, www.girlprops.com; Gold Heels: Morela, $99.95, Steve Madden; Gold Flats: Glitter Flat Shoe, $19.50, www.wetseal.com; Long-sleeved Black Dress: Japonesque Kimono Dress by Voom, $280.00, www.shopintuition.com; Black/Gold Heels: Gold Disco Glitter Heel Shoes, $80.00, www.accessorize.com; Coat: Herringbone Tab Coat, $170.00, www.topshop.com; Sash: Red Obi, $36.00, www.amiciaccessories.com; Black Flats: Epiphany, $37.50, Nine West; Bangles: Burnished Bangle, $9.00, Rampage; Clutch: Champagne Paisley, $54.00, www.amiciaccessories.com; Pants: Sateen Pencil Pant, $29.50, www.alloy.com; Top: Satin Flutter Top, $22.80, Forever 21; Drop Earrings: Linear Beaded Drop Earrings, $6.50, Old Navy

Indian and Oriental influences in fashion are nothing new. Think innovative shapes and prints designed with silk or satin fabric, then add a splash of gold to create the perfect day-to-evening look. Be sure to keep the theme going by styling your hair appropriately. Try tying it into a bun and secure with those long chop stick looking pins! I love Nicole’s collar jacket, if anyone knows where to find one let a sista know!

Best of the Rest...

Left to Right: Silk Dress with Cowl Neck by Gina Michele, $207.00, www.girlshop.com; Kimono Sleeve Dress, $24.50, www.wetseal.com; Taranen Dress, $29.99, www.gojane.com

While gathering pics for a future post I found these great Kimono Dresses, I don’t know how I missed them, I could of added them to the 'Style Inspiration' post below. Team with satin pumps and a glittery bag for the perfect date outfit.

Style Inspiration: The 1950’s

Kerry Washington does 50’s style to perfection, even her hair is reminiscent of the era.
Tracee and Garcellle show off their figures in these typical 50’s high-waisted outfits.
Polka Dot Dress: Polka Dot Mesh Dress, $54.00, www.hotkiss.com; Yellow Cardigan: Crew Neck Cardigan, $56.00, www.topshop.co.uk; Pants: Style# 6306K05, $78.00, www.maxstudio.com; Black Bag: La Regale Evening Bag, $44.00, Macys; White Bag: Colorful Creations DP19 Shimmer, $25.45, www.shoebuy.com; Peep Toe: Giddie, $99.95, Steve Madden; Polka Dot Clutch: Black Frame Bag, $12.99, Target; White Dress: Organza Party Dress, $449.00, www.rebeccataylor.com; Brooch: Vintage Style Ribbon Pin (J64984) by Nolan Miller, $54.75, QVC; Coat: Valentina Coat by Tocca, $870.48, www.my-wardrobe.com; Wide Pants: Trove by House of Spy, $120.00, www.paper-doll.com; Headband: Croc Head band, $28.00, Guess; Shirt Dress: Shirt Dress with Belt, $32.80, Forever 21; Flats: Soda Toyu Sandals 6 Gold, $15.99, www.cutesyshoes.com; White clutch: Beaded Cluster Framed Evening Bag, $11.99, Target; Necklace: Bright Beaded Choker, $20.00, Urban Outfitters; Sleeveless Cardigan: Crochet Sweater Top, $22.80, Forever 21; Belt: Shiny Croc Disco Sash Belt, $24.00, www.asos.com; Skirt: Tweed pencil skirt, $34.00, www.newport-news.com

As far as I’m concerned this was the best decade for fashion. If you were fuller figured you could flatter your curves with a tight pencil skirt or hide them under a poofy A-line dress, cinched with a belt. If on the other hand you were slender, you could rock the pencil legged pants and tight cardigans. I think 50s fashion has been creeping into contemporary clothing since the late 80s, but it shows no signs of disappearing this season (notice the waist-high belts, peep toe heels and capris). Beauty tip: When repping this retro style, make sure your nails are neat and short, 50s divas were prim ‘n’ proper from head to toe!

Note: Also try these throw back Mary Janes from Antropologie & check out these ladies and dresses for further inspiration.

Style Inspiration: Color

Tracee Ellis Ross in vibrant orange.... She can do no wrong fashion-wise!
Gabrielle Union and Amel Larrieux brighten up their days with some color.
Coat: Soft Belted Checked Coat, $230.00, www.topshop.co.uk; Platforms: Kawaii Pumps by Michael Antonio, $26.99 (On Sale!), www.cutesyshoes.com; Pumps: Barona Pumps by Michael Barona, $23.99 (On Sale!), www.cutesyshoes.com; Skirt: Floral Woven Mini, $15.80, Forever 21; Sequin Clutch: B Feather, $29.99 (On Sale!), Steve Madden; Jacket: Enzo Jacket, $138.00, French Connection; Blue Cuff: Blue Shell Cuff, $7.50, Claire’s; Bracelet: Red and White Plastic Stretch Bracelet, $1.99, www.girlprops.com; Blue Clutch: Ruffle-trim Clutch, $10.00 (On Sale!), www.newport-news.com; Red Bangle: Skinny Red Bangle; $4.50, Claire’s; Shirt Dress: Cadwell Tuni, $31.99, www.gojane.com; Tote Bag: Modern Fall Prada Style Shopper, $29.00, www.akostyle.com; Top: Donna Camisole by Day Birger et Mikkelsen, $162.00, www.my-wardrobe.com; Blue Top: Ruched Round Neck Top, $15.80, Forever 21; Wedges: Strappy Suede Wedge, $39.50, Gap; Flats: Dolce Vita Twist Toe Ballets, $78.00, www.urbanoutfitters.com; Dress: Sheer Matte Jersey Tonal Roller Glitter Dress, $88.00, Rampage

Join the rainbow coalition and splash your closet with some much needed color. Apparently, those who wear bright colors maintain a happier disposition (don't ask me for the source!) I think the brightest item in my wardrobe is a yellow belt I bought in London's Camden Market... I rock it with everything! Are you into color or are you strictly a black 'n' white kinda gal?

Note: Try these colorful bags!

Style Inspiration: Romantic

Sarah Jessica Parker knows how to dress like a lady.
Kelly Rowland and Jessica Simpson wearing the ultimae 'romantic' dresses!
Ruffle Dress: Camisole Dress, $64.00, www.hotkiss.com; Flats: Allier, $34.99, Chinese Laundry; Ruffle Bag: Giselle Champagne, $15.00, www.amiciaccessories.com; Sleeveless Shirt: Ruffle Top & Cami Sets; $24.50, Old Navy; Skirt: Embellished Tulle-Hem Skirt, $34.50, Old Navy; Earrings: Filigere Chandelier with Pearls, 38.00, Cache; Clutch: Cosette, $50.00, www.amiciaccessories.com; Circular Earrings: Disc Earring on French Wire, 18.00, Cache; Peep Toe Shoes: Piazza Brooch Pumps by Jimmy Choo, $750, http://www.net-a-porter.com/; Coat: Floral Brocade Coat by Miu Miu, www.jf-w.com; Cami Top: Jersey Cami, $6.80, Forever 21; Scarf: Poppy Scarf, $48.00, French Connection; Halter Top: Metal Fusion Halter, $15.80, Forever 21; Floral Dress: Floral Silk Dress by Rebecca Taylor, $426, www.lisakline.com; Sequin Bag: Pretty Net Sequin Pouch, $55.00, www.accessorize.com; Sweater: Sweater Vest, $29.50, Old Navy; Ruffle Skirt: Tiered Wrap Skirt, $30.00, www.wetseal.com; Sandals: Do-it-Yourself Rumorr, $89.95, Steve Madden

This collection is for the girlie-girl in us. I hope some of the designers in the eagerly awaited Fall/Winter 2007 Olympus Fashion Week, showcase some beautiful, airy and light dresses and skirts - just because the sun is leaving us, doesn't mean our flirty side should! And since some of us have started looking for the perfect coat, the Floral Brocade one (pictured above) is perfect for Fall's special occasions.

Style Inspiration: Classic

Garcelle Beauvais always looks stunning and this little black dress is to die for!
Gabrielle Union and Tracee Ellis Ross are the reigning queens of classic style!
Gold Clutch: Gold Python from a selection by Lorelei Lucia; Sandals: Calen, $89.99, Aldo; Turtleneck: SS Sweater Top, $15.80, Forever 21; Black Clutch: Blima, $49.99, Steve Madden; Dress: Style no.6201G55, $68.00 (On Sale!), www.maxstudio.com; Trousers: Notch Back Wide Leg Pant, $19.50, www.wetseal.com; Top: Vanessa Tie Top, $88.00, French Connection; Belt: Jocasi Ibiza Waisted Wide Belt, $100.00, www.asos.com; Bag: Convertible Two Pocket Messenger, $58.00, Urban Outfitters; Red Clutch: Ruby Red Clutch, $56.00, www.amiciaccessories.com; Hoops: Goldtone Hoops, $7.00, Claire’s; Skirt: Highlight by Greenbaum Clothing, $96.00, www.paper-doll.com; Pumps: Black Snake Jewel by Cesare Paciotti, $716.00, www.shoeluv.com; Gold Earrings: Gold Earrings, $12.99, www.girlprops.com; Boots: Gilda, $60.00, Rampage; Coat: Super Coat, $298.00, French Connection

Every closet needs it's staple items; the little black dress, the perfect gold pair of shoes, the classic coat, and since the stores are starting to release their Fall collections it's the perfect time to update your closet. I have my eye on those boots from Urban Outfitters and that coat would fit seamlessly into my current wardrobe. It's sometimes worth spending a little more on classic items of clothing, a great fitting pair of black trousers will see you through many seasons... But of course that doesn't mean you have to own just one pair! ;)

Style Inspiration: Eclectic

Erykah Badu looking chic and polished, but why the unhappy face? She always looks like she's about to 'shank a hoe!'
Suzanne Boyd, former editor of Flare and Suede magazine, and Kelis work their respective looks.
Red Top: Satin Spaghetti Top, $19.80, Forever 21; Round-Toe Shoes: Round Toe Heels, $22.99, Charlotte Russe; Clutch Bag: Surburban Snake, $38.00, www.amiciaccessories.com; Shirt: Bronze by Chulo Pony, $168.00, www.paper-doll.com; Flat Sandals: Tally Thong, $14.99 (On Sale!), www.hotkiss.com; Heels: Flux, $79.00 Franco Sarto; Jacket: Birdie Stump Trench B by OK47, $64.00 (On Sale!), www.paper-doll.com; Kimino Top: Satin Kimono, $24.80, Forever 21; Belt: Rhinestone Buckle Belt, $39.00, www.spiegel.com; Blue Bracelet: Maureen Braclet, $5.99, www.gojane.com; Tote Bag: Soft & Slouchy Sash Shopper, $82.00, Nine West; Dress: Moon Dress, $228.00, French Connection; Earrings: Green Shell Earrings, $6.50, Claire's; Skirt: Tropical Pleated Skirt, $27.80 Forever 21; Hat: Light Black Denim Fedora Hat, $26.95, www.goomoo.com

I'm really trying to broaden my style! I'm a basic colors kinda gal, who is always drawn to the black items in the store rather than the funkier stuff! So I took inspiration from the ladies above and found these cute pieces that I think I might actually wear... but not all at the same time!