Best of 2011

At the end of each and every year, there are lists upon lists of the best & worst of that year. We, at Yu Fashion, have decided to compose our own list, each of us picking a fashion trend that we loved the most.

Diane: Lace

I LOVE lace, lace anything and everything; there's something so ethereal and romantic about it, and reminds me of days gone by.

This season we've seen lace in various forms: tops, shorts, dresses, clutches, and even in jewellery. It was left to the individual whether the lace detailing on said pieces were emphasized or downplayed (although, why would you want to do that?!?). If your style leaned toward the girlie side, a lace dress with long pearl necklaces would have been a great option for a night on the town; however, if you prefer an edgier look, lace shorts worn with a graphic tee, leather jacket, and motorcycle boots would have been more up your alley. Lace, whatever you decide to do to/with it, is a good thing in my book...always!!!

The "Fanny" top by Joie was an instant bestseller at the store, and my absolute favourite piece all season...I've got mine, did you get yours???

Jessie: Colour & Printed Denim

Denim is a staple in all of our wardrobes, from skinnies to flares we can never get enough. This year the bright coloured, and printed denim seen on numerous celebrities and runways, made denim all the more exciting. I think this is such a fun way to add colour to your wardrobe. Just pair with a white tee or tank and you're ready to go. The difficulty lies in deciding which color, or print to choose (I love them all).

I know some of you ladies have been a little resistant to try this trend (it can be a little shocking seeing yourself in neon pink jeans for the first time), but as 2012 approaches, I think it's time to embrace the neon colors, and leopard prints a like. I don't think this trend is going anywhere, and as the year progresses the trend will only continue to evolve (think houndstooth & Ikat printed jeans, both of which we WILL be receiving come Spring).

 

Paige: Animal Print

There's no doubt about it, animal print made a lasting impression on this year's fashion world, and became a great trend in 2011.

All the a-list celebrities seemed to incorporate animal print into their daily fashions, from a full on animal printed dress to just a hint of this pattern on their shoes. This trend is incredibly easy to wear; you can wear a variety of colored animal print, as much or as little as you would like (although I do think less is more in this case), you can even mix animal prints! Best of all though is that this look can easily be dressed up or down, making it easy to go from day to night! Because of this easy to wear, and surprisingly edgy, yet elegant look, I have a feeling that this trend will not be saying goodbye at the end of 2011!

Time to show off your wild side!

What's Mabel Wearing??? New Year`s Eve Edition Cont'd

 

Deep down Mab's has always been more of a party animal, and New Year`s Eve is the perfect time for her to experiment and let her "hair" down. The Joie "Naria" tank in Storm paired with a sequin Chan Luu bra has major sex appeal; the jewels from Claudia add the perfect amount of sparkle. Ladies, follow Mabel`s lead, step out of your comfort zone, try something new, and start the New Year off with a bang!

What's Mabel Wearing??? New Year`s Eve Edition

 

New Year`s Eve is upon us, and Mabel`s showing us how to dress to impress, no matter what you have planned.

This time of year many of us feel pressured to RSVP to some party or another, but lets be honest... sometimes staying home with family and friends makes for the perfect (and relaxing) New Year`s Eve. The "Vince Ballet Neck Sweater" is the perfect piece to snuggle up in. The Chan Luu leopard print scarf, and jewels by both Jocelyn Kennedy and Karyn Chopik add just a hint of glamour; after all, it is New Year`s Eve, a little sparkle is a must!

Paige's Pick!

Time to put on our imagination thinking caps! This week`s pick is the "Stefani" pant by Soft Joie.

These Joie pants are what we call a "resort" item. If you're planning on jetting off for the winter, then these pants are the perfect combination of style and comfort. Adding a basic James Perse white tee, and "Tabitha" bag by Brave to the mix will make this outfit perfect for plane hopping, letting you arrive at your desired destination in style! This is where the imagination cap comes into play, although not shown in the picture, this outfit would look great with a wrist full of arm candy: Chan Luu, Karyn Chopik, and anything and everything in between. Can you say, Aloha??

The great thing about this outfit is how versatile everything is; you can easily change the feel of the outfit by switching out the individual pieces. This is exactly what I`ve done (in picture above). I added a Vince black sweater to dress up the outfit, making it a great option for a late night walk on the beach, or out for dinner and drinks with friends. Time to put on those thinking caps again: add a pair of wedges to this outfit as well as some subtle, yet sparkly jewelry, and you've got yourself a great look!

...

Paige: Jenna Dewan

Jenna Dewan, dancer/actress, is my celebrity style crush. Although she is not constantly in the public eye, whenever she steps out of the house, whether with husband Channing Tatum, or on her own, she always dresses to impress in a very cool, and casual way. I love her look for many reasons: it's casual, simple, and sophisticated. I think she's a stylista because her understated style is practical and well suited for everyday activities, a wardrobe not just for celebrities, but for "average" woman as well. From casual, errand running to dressed up red carpet events, Jenna stands out effortlessly, which makes this stylista one of my favorites!

Who doesn't love the "practical" gal next door?

Staff Style Crushes...cont'd

Jessie: Sienna Miller

I'm not a dedicated follower of celebrity style...but I guess if I had to choose someone, it would be Sienna Miller. This actress/designer/model has an effortless style that never seems over the top. I think her style is really relatable, and always interesting. Furthermore, she adds something unexpected to almost every outfit: a great shoe, or a structured jacket...whatever she puts on, she makes her own.   

I'm also a fan of her extensive collection of flats. Being on the "tall side" myself, I have always felt more comfortable in flats. However, in the "fashion world," high heels seem to dominate, so it's refreshing to see a fashionista wearing flats instead of the usual sky high heels (I love her red booties in the second pic).

Overall, Sienna chooses pieces that are easy and effortless, which I think are signs of a true fashion guru.

Staff Style Crushes

So, the girls and I thought it would be fun to each pick a celebrity whose style we admire, and explain why it is that we feel that way...

Diane: Olivia Palermo

Many of you know that I've had a style crush on Rachel Zoe, celebrity stylist extraordinaire, for years now...though I have to admit at times, I wonder if it's more her quirky personality than fashion choices that I so admire. However, there is another whose style I admire above all others: Olivia Palermo. For those not familiar with her, she's a Manhattan socialite who shot to fame as a series regular on MTV's reality show, "The City." Though not always my favourite "character," I have to say that Olivia's impeccable style (almost) always had me swooning, and more than a little envious!!!

Though intrinsically girlie, what I admire most about her style is how eclectic it can be. She mixes both mainstream and haute couture fashions seamlessly, and is always perfectly accessorized without ever appearing too "styled." She's often photographed at major runway shows in outfits that inspire, yet seem attainable at the same time. This is why I LOVE her!!!

I have to say that my love affair with statement necklaces, and pattern "mixology" came about because of Olivia. Her outfits (some more than others), always left me inspired either to try something out for myself, or on one of you, and isn't that all we can ask of a style crush?!?

V-Day

I know, I know, Christmas just finished, and there's still a couple days yet before the year's officially over, BUT Valentine's Day is just around the corner. If you're searching for little gift ideas, PJ Salvage is always a great option (whether you're the giver or receiver). Just in are some ultra girly options...

Kiss-Kiss Chemise

Splendid

Nutmeg Henley (received in Sunset)

Oasis Tank (received in Sand Dune)

Splendid definitely knows how to do stripes. This shipment is full of colour, and of course, stripes galore. My favorite piece is the "Oasis" tank, which would be the perfect piece to take on a beach vacation...just pair it with some denim shorts, or use it as a bathing suit cover up. 

Seven For All Mankind



Kimmie Straight Leg in Alluring Night

Straight Leg in Vintage California

We received new basics from 7FAM. Both pairs are super comfy...perfect jeans for that extra Christmas weight we've all accumulated over the holidays!

Vince Ballet Sweater

Ballet Sweater in Parchment

If you 're escaping the winter, we have the sweater for you! The "Ballet Sweater" is a lightweight knit, the perfect weight for those breezy nights. I think it would look great with linen pants or shorts, wedges, and wood jewellery for a beachy look.

Joie Fanny Top

Diane practically exploded today when we received a box full of the "Fanny" top in Porcelain, Mushroom, and Dark Navy. Not only is this Diane's favorite top, but every official Yu girl's favorite top as well! It's just one of those tops everyone loves, no matter their personal style. So, if you want to join the "Yu Girl's" club, jump on the bandwagon, and pick one up for yourself before they're all gone!

Ella Moss

The Soiree Dress in Ruby and Dalton Sweater in Natural

In need of the perfect New Year's Eve outfit? The "Soiree" dress is a great alternative to the LBD, and the bright ruby red colour will definitely have you turning heads. If you're planning to spend your New Year's Eve curled up at home with family, the "Dalton" sweater is perfect for lounging. However you end up spending New Year's Eve, Ella Moss has you covered. 

What's Mabel Wearing???

A Lauren Moshi tee, Chan Luu printed scarf, and jewels from Jocelyn Kennedy...obviously Mabel was a very lucky girl this Holiday Season! All she needs is a pair of AG skinnies, and she'll be set for the new year.

Boxing Week Sale!

Just a little reminder that December 27th will be the beginning of our annual Boxing Week Sale!

Select pieces will be reduced 30-50% off, so come in, take a look, and maybe you'll find some great new pieces to ring in the new year.

 

*Select denim and jewelry will be 20% off for the week.

Ready For Neon???

The Skinny in Neon Pink

Look at what we just got in? Sooooo cool! If you love coloured denim, or just want to try something different, you MUST get these...ultra light-weight and stretchy, they're sure to be a winner!!! Can't you picture these with a white tank, and jean jacket???

Lauren Moshi Glam!!!

Just in from Lauren Moshi is the "Frankie Colour Diamond" tee in White/Rose. This particular print is a Yu girl favourite, and disappears rather quickly...I imagine even quicker this time around because of all the "bling" on it!!! Pair this top with AG leopard print leggings, a leather jacket, and fabulous biker boots for a look that is both edgy and glam.

*Also received are "Valerie" and "Ginger" tees (same print minus the bling).

Rock N Roll

AG "Stilt" jeans in 7 Years Dwight Mend just in!!! If you're looking for a fabulously worn-in, distressed pair of jeans, these are perfect. Wear them with flats, tucked into boots, or with your favourite pair of sky-high platforms.

More Splendid

Another box of Splendid was received this afternoon!!! Here's a sneak peek of the goodies:

Horizontal Cowl Received in Sky Blue

Oasis Stripe Dress in Cactus Bloom

Cozies From Wildfox

We just received our Holiday/Resort delivery of Wildfox sweatshirts, and boy were they ever worth the wait!!!

The "Sparkle Heart Top" (below) is my absolute favourite. Available in Warm Rain, Point Break, and Diamond, these will make the perfect holiday gift for each of your girlfriends!!!

Back by popular demand is the "Lennon Seeing Stars" sweater in Free Love (pictured below).  This sweater looks great paired with jeans, leggings, and/or shorts.

Bon Voyage From Vince!

For those lucky enough to be jetting off this winter, Vince has got the perfect grouping for you. It's a small, but perfectly thought out collection, with pieces fully complimenting each other.

I adore the "Hi-Waist Shorts" in Greige (bottom left)!!! I see them working equally well with flats and/or wedges...the perfect travelling "companion."

What's Mabel Wearing???

For casual Friday's, Mabel has the perfect look! She`s wearing a Soft Joie striped long sleeve dress, with JK and Karyn Chopik necklaces to jazz things up. This outfit is great for an office Christmas party paired with nylons and tall boots. What's even better is it would also be great worn to drinks with the girls!!!

Chicest employee of the season!

Paige's Pick

This week's pick is inspired for those who like to buy for all seasons. If this sounds like you, I've got just the look: the Wildfox "Beach Heart" tank in Coconut. It is icredibly simple to make these pieces work year round. For cooler months, adding a sweater like the Velvet "Cable Wrap" in Fallow will keep you nice and toasty. To make the transition into summer, all you have to do is take off the sweater, and add a cute cross body bag like the Brave "Samy!" Did I mention these pieces are both great for travelling to warmer climates??? The 7FAM "Sun Bleached" jeans are super stretchy and comfy, making any plane ride that much more manageable! Not to mention the fact that you'll be showing up at the airport looking stylish as ever!!!

Escape the Winter and add some color to your closet!

Happy Holidays From Nation Ltd.

Just in from Nation Ltd. is the "Coral Gables Tees" in Charcoal/Silver. This tee has a slight shimmer to it, making it a great option for a casual (Holiday) gathering.

Coral Gables Tee shown in Nude (Received in Charcoal/Grey)

They're Here!!! Red Pants From Seven FAM!!!

We've finally received the 7 FAM "Gwenevere" in Sunbleached. This wash is hand-sanded to give the colour a distressed/worn down look, bringing out the colour's highs and lows. Pair these twill pants with a chunky sweater and boots during the winter months, and a basic tee and flip-flops in the summer.