Miami Style Map: All Tied Up for Fall.

Giddy up, fashionistas! Fall has officially kicked into high gear! In Miami, that might not amount to much, but it doesn't mean us South Floridians can't enjoy some fall fashion this season. When you live in hot and sunny Miami, and those few 60 degree days roll around, you bring out the big guns- leather jackets, light scarves, booties, and maybe some fingerless gloves if you're bold! 

I'll be the first to admit that I used to make fun of the locals who bundled up like they were waiting for an impending blizzard. I mean, 60 degrees is hardly sweater weather. Maybe some were actually cold, or maybe some just really wanted to experience a smidgen of fall. And I get it. Kind of. After 12 years of true fall weather in New York- changing leaves, brisk mornings, and legit pumpkin patches- I definitely missed the colored tights, the fall coats, and knitted scarves. So now, when those almost autumn-like days come around in our Magic City, I'm the first to throw on every imaginable flannel, beanie, and jacket in my closet. It'll make me feel like I'm somewhere in the Northeast. I've become one of those locals! And guess what?! I like it. Make fun of me all you like, because ignorance is fashion bliss. Fall (or at least the idea of it) makes me insanely happy! I do make it a point, though, to go back to the city every fall, just so I can see New York in its glory. Because there's nothing like New York in the fall or during the holidays! Plus I get to wear all those tights! 

I was so excited to team up with Chris from Ra-Haus Fotografie (www.ra-haus.com) to photograph some fall looks that are perfect for Miami weather! And what better location than the Freehand on Miami Beach (www.freehandmiami.com). It's one of my favorite spots for cocktails in Miami! And the best part about these looks is that you can make them weather appropriate by adding extra layers and heavier outerwear. This was also my first shoot after having Rocco and it felt fantastic to get back out there! 

I fell in love with this hunter green tunic dress from Forever 21 because its such an eye-catching hue for fall! I especially love the the black bow detail and how it pops against the jewel-toned backdrop. How great does my new short hair look against the green (thank you, Emiliano)?! The light brown highlights are au naturale! I love a good shirt dress and this one is a winner!  Long gone are the days of cleavage bearing necklines. Back in the day, if my boobs weren't spilling out of my shirt, then I wouldn't wear it. I've gone extreme in my older (and fashionably wiser) years. I'm all about the high necklines and it's such a welcomed change (that's not to say I don't appreciate some good cleavage now and again)!

And another fall favorite of mine- shoes with socks! Yay! It's a nod to my private school days and I just love the preppy look! But now I'm swapping those school shoes for some heels, like these peep toe ones by Marc Jacobs! I'm finishing off the look with my new, sleek camel-colored hat. It's a fan favorite! My look wouldn't be complete without a bold lip color. This deep plum shade is my go-to for the season. 

I can't wait to take this fall number for a spin in the town! And it's definitely going in my suitcase when I head to New York for the Thanksgiving holiday. Only, I'll be wearing it with my leopard coat that's waiting in the wings! 

On Me: 

Dress- Forever 21
Hat- Forever 21
Heels- Marc Jacobs 


In Style, 

Kat

Miami Style Map: Kicking off Mercedes Benz Swim Week in American Apparel

Mercedes Benz Swim Week kicks off this week in Miami and in the spirit of skimpy and sexy, I'm dedicating today's post to this retro-inspired American Apparel high waisted sensation. And the beauty and glory of this suit wouldn't be complete without the proper setting- in this case, the iconic Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, which tells a story of its own. 

I teamed up with my favorite gal and master behind the lens, Lizzy (with a 'y') of Ra-Haus (http://ra-haus.com/) for this throwback, pin-upesque swimsuit shoot. Ironically enough, rain diverted our original location but in the end, it gave way to an even better visual conversation. The Biltmore Hotel boasts some beautiful and timeless rooms in its Mediterranean enclave. This Moroccan-Spanish courtyard, with it's detailed and colorful tile work and lush greenery, is the ultimate backdrop to illustrate this vintage bikini.

In the last couple of years, I've had a growing obsession with high-waisted suits, even apparel. This trend is an acquired taste and that's okay. There's a certain attitude, look, and confidence needed to carry off this trend without feeling uncomfortable or outdated. It's a matter of how you wear it because if not done right, can come off a little dumpy. 

I love the way this suit accentuates my assets. It's nice to be able to show that even thin women have curves and the right high-waisted suit is the perfect opportunity to showcase an hour-glass figure. I have even more respect for these 'child-bearing' hips after giving birth to my baby girl. The marvel I have for my body and all its wonder and capability is off the charts after becoming a mom and I constantly feel the need to show that off.  I feel sexy, powerful and dare I say, HAWT (the red Fendi heels don't hurt either)! 

No one knows you're body better than you and it's the 'end all be all' rule of thumb when shopping for a swimsuit. Buy a suit that shows off your most favorite assets. What works for you might not work for another woman's body type and vice versa. With so many different body types (and swimsuits) that make the world go around, there is a suit for every woman out there! Prints are another fun way to personalize a suit. Sure, the classics (black, white, nude, etc) are always nice to have stashed, but finding a bold and sassy print, can add a jolt of summer fun to your beach wardrobe. Right now, I'm hooked on tropical prints and this green and blue palm print, is an eye catcher. 

if you're lucky enough to be in Miami for Swim Week, stop by a show and check out the the season's latest designs by the hottest designers, or if not, grab a beach chair and enjoy the endless people watching and swimsuit fashion our beautiful beaches have to offer! 

On Me: 

Swimsuit- American Apparel 
Glasses- Pixie Market
Heels- Fendi 

In Style, 

Kat