Trend Watch: Leopard Print Accents
Leopard print accents are a chic way to add interest to a monotone outfit, and can be worn for day or evening when done right. Leopard print scarves have graced the shoulders of Sarah Jessica Parker (here on December 13 in Louis Vuitton) Kate Moss, Sienna Miller, and Ashley Olsen (try Fendi’s version, $219 at Forzieri.com). You can create a similar effect by pairing a leopard print airy blouse (we like the Sweet Pea Leopard Mesh Tie Short Sleeve Top, on sale for $49.50 at Bluefly.com, and Charlotte Tarantola’s Leopard Print Silk Camisole, on sale for $38.90 at Nordstrom.com) with a curve-hugging pencil skirt or black skinny jeans (our favorite our Siwy Jeans Rose Drainpipe in Jet, available at Revolveclothing.com for $198 - use coupon code “JT” for 15% off your purchase). For a toned-down version of the trend, try a an animal print enamel bangle, like the 1 1/2″ Ocelot Bangle by Coach ($148, also available in 3/4″ for $98). When wearing the trend on an article or clothing, remember to keep the pattern small and avoid colorful washes of the print. Although SJP tops off her look with a splash of color from her Christian Louboutin heels, we suggest keeping the rest of your look neutral (think grays, tans, and of course black).
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Love her or hate her, you can’t deny Lindsay Lohan’s impact as a style icon. Miss Lohan has had some truly fab red carpet looks over the past few seasons (who can forget her many teamings with Chanel), however with little happening in her career right now her fashion escapades have been relegated to trips to Robertson Boulevard and Starbucks runs. Post her most recent rehab stint (number three if you’re counting), the reformed party girl has been trying to keep a low profile sporting many a leggings-and-dark-glasses look. We all know layering as the way to stay warm, but it can do double-duty and create a chic look when you play with different proportions, a la Lindsay with her cropped jacket over a tunic and leggings. To copy her low maintenance ski-bunny-meets-California-girl look, start with a cropped jacket with clean lines that’s not too snug. We love the asymmetrical cut and unexpected color of her shearling motorcycle-inspired number. Layer that over a solid tunic in a heavier fabric (make sure it fully covers your hips) and a pair of thick black leggings. Top off the look with a pair of riding boots, a slouchy knit beanie, and Ray-Ban Wayfarers for a classic twist. For those of you who feel that leggings are a privilege and not a right, you can accomplish the same look with a pair of skinny black jeans (our favorite are the 
Jessica Simpson is known for her curve-hugging looks, and this draped jersey number is no exception. The masculine color and texture of her accessories add interest to an otherwise super-feminine dress. Choosing an asymmetrical neckline draws attention to her toned shoulders, which we can all achieve with a few sets of 
Carrie Underwood has surprised us all by morphing into a red carpet style icon - long gone are her American Idol days of big hair and plaid shirts. Many of her looks channel the girly girl in all of us with ethereal dresses, sparkling accessories, and artfully undone coifs. To steal her look try a frilly pink frock with chiffon accents (our favorites are by David Setzo and BCBG Maz Azria), and choose a metallic accent color (silver a la Carrie, gold, or bronze all look fab with light pink) for your heels and handbag. We suggest keeping the jewelry simple - sparkling drop earrings or a jeweled bracelet with clear or light yellow stones - to avoid looking like a pageant queen. Finish off the look with an easy, asymmetrical updo for a whimsical twist. To begin, distribute a dollop of styling mousse and shine serum evenly throughout your hair. Create a far side part, and blow-dry over a large barrel round brush until dry. Next, sweep hair to one side and tie in a low ponytail, wrapping a lock of hair around the elastic to disguise it. Arrange the hair in the pony in artful loops like Carrie and secure with pins, or simply twist around the elastic and secure for an undone bun look. Set with hairspray, and you’re ready to shine!
Rachel Bilson nailed the menswear-inspired trend at the screening of Jumper in Las Vegas. The tailored shirt and blazer nicely balance out the proportions of her wide-leg jeans. The tucked-in shirt and wide leather belt with metal accents add a youthful and hip twist to an otherwise everyday outfit, and natural makeup and loose waves finish off the look by adding a touch of femininity. To recreate the trend for yourself, try pairing 
Carmen Electra showed off her back-to-blonde do, complemented by an adorable “mod girl meets Hollywood” ensemble that’s perfect for a night out on the town. The saffron yellow jacket caps off an otherwise super-sleek charcoal on black. Her oversized black handbag and Miu Miu black patent boots make the look. For a toned-down version of the trend, try enamel bangles or a belt around the waist in the same yellow hue. And if yellow isn’t your cup of tea, any bright or jewel tone will work (think teal, deep purple, or a ruby red), so be sure to chose one that compliments your skin tone and that you feel comfortable in. How would you wear this look? Let us 
Thandie Newton is working the all black look in Chanel, and no matter what they say black will always be the new black. She hit it right with the proportions by pairing a cap-sleeve sweater with a high-waisted ruffled skirt. The finish of the skirt is a bit ragged for my taste, but can you really ever argue with Chanel? Her accessories make the look, with black opaque tights, studded strappy black heels, and a metallic oversized clutch.
