Wednesday, January 16, 2013

Personal Style: Lady Wears the Blues



Monochrome dressing can be just as fun and visually striking as colour blocking. However, it is not as simple as throwing on different items in the exact same shade and calling it a day - it takes thought and creativity to strike a perfect balance when using different shades of the same colour to put together an outfit.

An assortment of blues was used to put together this ladylike ensemble. The key to successfully putting together a monochrome look is to create contrast by choosing shades that compliment each other and to create variety by using different materials, patterns and textures to break up the look and make it interesting.

The geometric black pattern on this royal blue shirt is an example of how patterns can add visual interest to a monochromatic look. The darker shade of blue of the high-waist skirt creates colour contrast, and its bandeau panels add texture. The dark blue long leather gloves and indigo fur scarf are elegant accessories that keep in with the colour theme of this outfit as well as add textural interest.

The handbag encompasses contrasting shades of blue and is made up of different materials, making it the perfect accompaniment to this monochrome outfit. To finish off this look, black tights and black booties make for a leg-lengthening combination that echoes the pattern of the shirt and doesn’t overwhelm the outfit’s blue colour palette.

-Reem Buhazza

Photographs by Ayah Amin
Styling and Modeling by Mona Hamid
Writing by Reem Buhazza

Outfit Details:
1. Sunglasses: Ralph Lauren. Similar here.
2. Fur Scarf: KYI KYI at Bloomingdales. Similar here.
3. Blouse: Amanda Uprichard at Bloomingdales. Available here.
4. Gloves: Barneys. Similar here.
5. Bag: Charles & Keith. Available here.
6. Skirt: Reiss. Similar here.
7. Booties: Franco Sarto, available here.












Friday, January 4, 2013

Personal Style: Winter Wonderland

This Alice in Wonderland inspired ensemble illustrates how a playful pattern such as the polka dot can easily add a kick of whimsy-chic to dreary winter palettes.

The polka dot patterns of the statement tights and round cross-body bag are great examples of how you can put separate polka dot pieces together, as the prints are different yet complimentary. When wearing more than one polka dot piece, avoid taking the matchy-matchy route as this can make your look seem dated and contrived. Artfully combining polka dots of different sizes, colours, and spacing looks much more chic and fashion-forward.


The belted navy trench and angora-collared powder blue sweater tie in with the delicately feminine theme of this look, and black round-toed booties add an innocent touch. The polka dot fun continues with the purple umbrella, a great example of how practical everyday items can also function as a stylish extension of your outfit.

-Reem Buhazza



Photographs by Josie Cooper
Styling and Modeling by Mona Hamid
Writing by Reem Buhazza

Outfit Details:
1. Raincoat: Poleci. Similar at,
2. Vintage Sweater: The Garment District (200 Broadway, Cambridge, MA).
3. Bag: Kate Spade - Normandy Park Dot Bag. Available at
4. Tights: Primemark, London, UK. Similar at,
5. Booties: Franco Sarto. Available at,
6. Gloves: Corder London