"For this Menswear campaign, I wanted to capture a moment of love. Kim and Kanye are style icons and friends. It is an honour to have them in this Balmain campaign. Together, they represent love, beauty and diversity—they are the new modernity. This is more than a campaign, it expresses something beyond clothes—it is a celebration of love and friendship. This is a new statement for Balmain."
In addition to being subject to the torture of figuring out what to wear to a "get together," I was also invited to a game night this past weekend.
After the get-together, I realized that home gatherings in the winter are uncomfortable for one main reason: you're probably dressing for the cold outside, but not the heat inside. For game night I imagined: winter weather, lots of people indoors, drinks, a small apartment, shouting and, more importantly, blasting heat.
So how, might you ask, did I combat all these factors? Like an onion.
Layers, my friend. Layers.
Let's start from the inside out.
I started with a basic black v-neck cotton tee. These are usually my favorite and my go-to outfit for any social gathering. It's minimalist and always on-trend, and you can get these almost anywhere! The most affordable and absolutely necessary closet staple is a black v-neck. Because I would be adding so many long-sleeved and thicker layers, I decided a short-sleeved option would be best to keep me cool, or just in case I needed to peel, pun intended.
Coco Note: Because I wear these so often, I have several short-sleeved and long-sleeved versions of the black v-neck. I like to keep a few plain ones, a designer version and a few with graphic prints.
The second layer consisted of this plaid button-up. Plaid is very much on-trend this season, and this particular top is a great segue into the trend. The blue, gray, black and white pattern is not as shocking or obvious as the traditional red and black lumberjack plaid we're used to. I love this top because although I wasn't going to be wearing a sweater indoors, I would still be warm, thanks to the surprisingly thick material.
The third layer I'm wearing is my faux leather jacket with stud details. Although the details of this jacket are silver and I was wearing gold accessories-- I didn't care. It was perfect with the sleek edgy feel of this look.
I threw a big, black fur vest, the fourth and final layer, on top to add chicness and glamour. Can you say diva much?
Regular jeans just wouldn't do for this look, so I paired it with faux leather pants to add the extra "umph" and texture. (As if this look needed it!)
These boots are a Black Friday purchase that I have had my eye on for a while! They look so expensive and were quite the opposite! The gold accents on the heel, buckle and toe really polish the look and give them a "refined cowboy boot" feel.
Coco, do you only dress younger people like you say up to 30 or older 50 and up?
Not at all! I can style anyone from a toddler all the way up to your great grandmother! For styling consultations, closet re-vamps or personal shopping, email me at [email protected]!
I'm sure I'm not the only girl in the world (Hi Rihanna!) who cringes when she hears "I'm having a get together..." followed by a string of non-clarifying words. Honestly folks, I don't think anyone knows what a "get together" is.
In the cooler months, you're more likely to hear this term, which refers to a small gathering of people, because, let's face it, no one likes to go out in the cold and getting a bunch of friends to cram together in someone's living room or a tiny NYC apartment is the next best thing.
For these events, I usually like to balance casual with chic, especially if I don't know the crowd. For this particular get together, I chose to wear my cognac booties. Booties are a great option because you can play around with the heel height and style to keep it casual, but still add a little height and dimension.
Coco Note: I would stick to a 2-3 inch heel for a casual get together. Lace-up combat style booties are perfect because they have just enough of a heel, but have a worn-in, casual look. If you know it's going to be more of a party, you can go for a higher heel or a dressier finish or type, like a black leather stiletto or pointed toe boot.
I've surprisingly found myself reaching for blue jeans lately. I haven't purchased a pair of adult-sized blue jeans in ages, so I grabbed a few pairs from Rainbow the other day. This medium-wash pair has a slightly high waist and was only $20!
Coco Note: Yes, I usually buy my jeans in the kids section. Let me be great.
Since it was cooler out and the jeans had a higher waist than usual, I took the chance to wear this slightly cropped crewneck from H&M! The white cotton sweatshirt is so soft and comfortable , and features the words "Tres Mignon Paris" across the front.
Coco Note: Tres means very in French, while Mignon can mean little or beautiful. Take your pick! ;)
For some color and to jazz up the outfit, I wore my new burgundy clutch that I got at Marshalls! The quilted pattern and gold chain add just the right amount of chic to the look and the cranberry color is perfect for the season. I also added a gold necklace that features medium-sized silver-green gems.
Another way to jazz up a casual outfit is a beatfacehoney! (Pun intended) Make up is definitely an accessory and can be used to turn a casual outfit into a more party-appropriate look!
Coco Note: Selfie. Game. Strong.
Leave a comment or picture below letting me know what your go-to "Get Together" outfit is!
For holidays or family events where I know i'll be eating up lots of delicious food, I like to go for a comfortable, usually knit or cotton, dress. Dresses give you room to breathe and fill up on seconds without that awkward moment of unbuttoning that top button or having to loosen your belt a notch or 4.
This year, I decided to switch up my Turkey Day style just a bit and go for this gray knit two-piece set. I loved the matching separates trend over the summer, so why not take it into the cooler months with a neutral color and a thick fabric like a knit!
What I love about this set is the extra long sleeves, the wide neckline and the thick material. The slightly cropped top is long enough where you can show as much or as little skin as you'd like, which is great for being conservative at family events or sexier for date night!
My favorite part of this look is.....the PRICE! This set was under $40 and the material is seriously super warm and extremely comfortable.
This dress is the epitome of birthday dresses. From the deep V-neck, to the dark gold color, to the length and, let us not forget, the SEQUINS!
I usually hate sequins, but the dark gold color somehow made me forgive the drag queen potential of this particular mini dress. The sequins are almost bronze and the dress is lined with a thick material that kept me from getting itchy all night.
Coco Note: Sequins make me VERY itchy. May or may not be in my head.
My FAVORITE part of this dress is that it looks so expensive but was only $40!! Y'all don't really hear me though!
I paired this dress with what have become my favorite heels (can you tell?), my ZigiNY Bubles . The bronze snake around the ankle was just enough for this dress.
Now here's a HUGE Coco Note for you guys when wearing sequins:
Here's your chance to SKIP the jewelry! Think about it, your entire body is covered in sparkle right now! When wearing sequins or metallics, KISS! Keep It Simple Sista! Hair, Make-Up, Accessories-- keep it simple!
I wore simple diamond (yea, iight) studs and gold rings and a high messy-ish bun, but opted out of the necklace. I don't really like to carry a purse when partying so I went out sans clutch ;)
To boss up this look even more (if at all possible), I wore my new camel coat from H&M! Although it doesn't have the exaggerated lapels that are on trend for this season, the menswear vibe of this coat is just what I was looking for.
Coco Note: I may still get another one for this season. Don't judge.
Dress: Madrag
Coat: H&M (also in black)
Rings: H&M
Shoes: ZigiNY
What's your go-to look for birthdays and/or holidays and special occasions? Comment below or leave a photo!
Interview Ready: Relaxed Sophistication by thecocogawdess featuring crepe pants
It's Friday It's Friday!
Happy Friday folks! As I'm gearing up to start a new job this coming Monday, this post comes right on time! I know many of you may be preparing to start a new job, go on an interview or rock a second interview!
For the 2nd interview, I suggest keeping it as professional as possible. Your look can be slightly more relaxed than the preliminary interview, but keep in mind that during the 2nd interview you may be introduced to higher level executives and board members.
A secretary bow is a great choice for part 2 of your interview process. It's professional, but not as stuffy as the traditional button up.
Coco Note: Button Up? Button Down?
Neutral solids and prints or light solids (pastels, etc.) are the best options. Yes, you are going for a more relaxed look, but you still want your potential employers to take you seriously!
A black cardigan also works in lieu of the classic black blazer. Remember to keep the cardigan waist-length. It should have small buttons (black, pearl, diamond) and be lint- free.
Coco Note: Wearing clothing that is riddled with lint (especially black clothing), stained or wrinkled not only looks bad, it also shows others that you just don't care about the most basic thing-- your appearance-- and may not care about much else. Not good. #ShowDontTell
I've added black trousers to this look, but if you're feeling funky, feel free to try navy blue, gray or even (hold for effect) pinstripe!
Of course minimal jewelry and a nice tote bag in a neutral color!
Comment below and let me know whether you say "button up" or "button down"! Feel free to let me know what you would wear to a second interview!
I love this extra sexy bandage dress. Bandage dresses are definitely a closet staple these days, much like the LBD. They hug all the right curves and provide suction. The thick fabric also helps smooth out all of extra bits of love ;)
I purchased this dress a year ago and I've already pulled it out 3 times. Each time, it's a hit. Just when you think it couldn't get any sexier, the backless cut ends at the perfect spot, just at the small of the back.
This is definitely my "freakum dress."
Coco Note: "What's a Freakum Dress," you ask?
When you've been with your man for a long time and he is just not treating you right, the freakum dress is that little dress you wear when you go out with your ladies because you've had enough and every fella in the room goes "DWAMMMMM!"
Term made popular by Beyonce
-- Urban Dictionary
I love this lavender color, it really stands out and complements that Coco Complexion! ;) It's a light shade, but the color is very vibrant.
The faux-wrap style of this blouse gives me a little boost in the boobage department. This style allows you to control how much or how little cleavage is shown. You can wear it loose with a cami, lace bralet or bra top peeking through or, like I did, pulled close together.
Coco Note: I strongly suggest a really good bra with this top. A great outfit starts underneath your clothes! And yes, I did have to pin the front a bit. I'm a founding member of the IBTC (Itty Bitty Titty Committee), sue me!
This version of the high-low draped top isn't too revealing up front and doesn't go too far past the derrière in the back so it's great for a trial run. It came in black, red and taupe, but I decided to go with the taupe. I usually like to go with a neutral when i'm trying out a new style.
I decided on black jeans instead of leggings for this top, since the front is a bit short. Jeans are a little sturdier and thicker, if ya know what I mean,
I wore these tan lace-up booties from MadRag. Booties are great for those casual outfits that you want to jazz up a bit without doing too much. (Ladies, you know we are known to do too much!). So when he says "get dressed" but you have no idea where you're headed, grab a comfortable and cute pair of booties! The small and thick heel is comfortable, but gives you that extra boost for your booty and your posture! ;)
What does your go-to Fall Date Night outfit consist of? Comment below with a picture!
Interview Ready: The Classic by thecocogawdess featuring kate spade earrings
Another series! This time we're talking interview attire! This one's for my college grads or soon-to-be grads looking to break into the corporate world, for students looking to snag that dream internship, or for anyone looking to switch jobs or careers.
Too often do I hear people on the train or on the bus, dressed in what they think works for an interview, talking about the different reasons why their interview didn't go the way they planned.
Question. (In my Destiny's Child Independent Woman voice): Did you ever stop and think that maybe appearance does matter?
Hear me out.
If a company hires you to go out and secure new clientele or meet with existing clients, they want someone who is going to represent their company well. A wrinkled shirt, faded blazer and lint-covered trousers doesn't exactly say "we're serious about our business."
Point is, while looks aren't everything (yea yea yea), it's important to put your best foot forward in all aspects.
When in doubt, go for The Classic interview look! A black pant suit, or a blazer and black trousers in the same shade of black, paired with a button up in white or pin stripe if you;re fancy, and a pair of patent leather flats or court shoes is a classic interview outfit! It's simple, sophisticated, professional and like cash, accepted everywhere.
The trick with this look is to make sure every piece is pressed (starch helps) and/or dry cleaned! This definitely requires stiff lines. Keep the jewelry simple; pearl earrings and a dainty necklace are my favorite.
Coco Note: I didn't call this look "The Classic" for no reason!
As for arm candy, a simple gold bracelet will do (pearl bracelets are not my taste). That Michael Kors watch you have with the diamond face? Yea, leave that at home honey. A small gold watch will do. You want your interviewer to take you seriously, so don't let your Valley girl alter ego outshine you, literally.
You also want to carry a purse large enough to hold a folder for your resume and any supplemental materials, but not so large that it becomes a distraction. I recommended a black leather tote, preferably one that does not have a print or any large logos or details.
Is "The Classic" your go-to interview look?
Don't forget to follow me on Polyvore for more style sets!
Coco Note: This is my "feeling the Spirit" face, which is pre- "catching the Spirit" face.
I paired the dress with a black satin overcoat that has black embellishments around the collar and around the cuffs of the three quarter-length sleeves. The black satin dresses up the look but keeps the palette neutral!
Coco Note: I've had this overcoat for AGES! Just goes to show you, keep the unique pieces that you already have in your closet, you never know when you'll need to pull them out! A closet staple in a unique material or pattern is PRICELESS!
A midi-length dress with a neutral print or color palette and subtle embellishments is the perfect choice for those in-between events. You know what I mean, the ones that are not too late but not too early, or not too formal but not too casual, not quite a date but not just hanging out. Basically, they're great to throw on when you're not sure of the dress code.
This particular midi dress is a go-to in the fall because of the brown, black and beige colors and the sweater-like material. It has some gold beads in the front and an exposed gold zip that comes halfway down the back. This is just enough for a work event or a dinner date.
The great thing about midi-length dresses and skirts is you can play around with the fit, material and color to make it as sexy as you want! This sweater version is subtly sexy; it shows off some curves but is still sophisticated. The high racer-front neckline is also very appropriate and doesn't require a necklace.
As I said, I was a guest of the Chairman of the organization and kind of working, so I kept the heels lower than usual. I absolutely love these sandals from ZigiNY! The wide strap is great for girls like me who think they're toes are too long for the minimalist sandal look, or for the days you didn't have time to get a pedicure! The thickness takes some of the focus away from the toes. The heel isn't too high so you can move around comfortably, yet still feel sexy and add to your posture.
A high bun, nude bag and my watch were all I needed to complete the look!
Special thanks to the board of ADIHA for inviting me and allowing me to participate!
(keep scrolling for outfit deets!)
What do you guys think about midi-length dresses?
Dress: Loehman's
Shoes: Zigi Soho Tarion (comes in other colors and prints)
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