Risky Business

Taking risks is a necessity within the fashion industry, and it’s the risks that Jeremy Scott takes each season that shock and inspire audiences. His looks in the Fall 2017 ready-to-wear collection were nothing short of extravagant. The mix of leather, patchwork, and fur with the diversity in the tights, boots, and vibrant jewels made this line unique and memorable, much like his styles every season.

Similarly, for this look, the tie-up detail on the shirt and lace texture throughout adds consistency to the top. The buttons on the skirt add a simple detail that goes a long way. I went with minimal jewelry, except for this jeweled choker that ties in the colors of the rest of the outfit.

My personal favorite piece of this ensemble is the light pink leather vest. It mimics Jeremy Scott’s theme of leather in unexpected shades within his newest collection. The light color of the vest and bag are an easy contrast of colors. Just as in Jeremy Scott’s line, despite the differences in the hues of the ensembles, they all blend and complement each other perfectly.

Another significant decision that must be made when putting together an outfit is the shoes. Marilyn Monroe once said:

“Give a girl the right pair of shoes and she’ll conquer the world.” 

I finished this look with a sparkly pair of booties. The combination of black with the shiny silver brightens the entire outfit, and makes quite a statement!

Take a risk, like Jeremy Scott, this spring. Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns and designs to create looks as brilliant and unforgettable as his.

Style On^®,

Maggie Dillard

Content originally created for and published on CollegeFashionista.com

Join the G-Force

If you know anything about high fashion, you know that Gigi Hadid is basically dominating the fashion industry completely on her own. Okay, maybe along with her sis, Bella, and Kendall Jenner—with a little help from Tommy Hilfiger. On the third night of New York Fashion Week in September, Gigi unveiled her highly anticipated fall 2016 ready-to-wear collection that she created with the one-and-only Tommy Hilfiger. The collection still incorporated the beloved original nautical theme but with an incredible Gigi flair that sent fashion fanatics totally frantic.

Because of its casual, cool vibe, I’ve been copying the many looks of this collection ever since Gigi hit the runway with them. Leather pants are always a good idea to pull back out when the weather starts cooling down. There’s no doubt that they add sleekness to any outfit. Several of the other looks in the collection were completed with the ever-popular slip-on sneaker. These are a go-to for an everyday shoe look.

The bandana choker has always been a major key, and when Gigi stepped on the runway adorning one in a similar fashion, the popularity of the bandana trend shot through the roof. I decided to create a necklace that brought the bandana choker trend and Gigi’s fringe bandana together into one with a fringe frayed bandana choker. The best types of fashion come from mixing inspiration from one style with another and making it completely your own. Add a simple strip of bandana to an already trendy bag for an extra flair to incorporate the theme of your outfit. 

Also like Gigi with the tailored sailor jacket, I topped my outfit off with a utility jacket for an extra hint of edge. Don’t be afraid to strip the jacket when the fall temperatures warm up mid-day. I chose to integrate the typical Tommy red with this high-neck tank top. Any tank with a tie down the side would work to add just the right amount of femininity to a casual look. The reveling hardware of the tie down the sides adds additional texture for a refined look. You could also opt for Gigi x Tommy’s cropped T-shirt to rock a modern take on the sailor look.

The G-Force is out in full force this fashion season; 

cop her style and be in on all the trendiest looks this fall!

Style On^®,

Maggie Dillard

Content originally created for and published on CollegeFashionista.com

A Summer of the Saint

When scouring the Internet for fashion tips and trends, it’s always inevitable that my searching will lead me to a designers website, then to a video of the runway show of another designer, then to an article about a different designer’s newest collection and so on. The other day, my hunting led me to a recap video of the Saint Laurent spring 2016 ready-to-wear collection. I remember this collection being one of my favorites during fashion week. Ever since this line was released, I’ve been incredibly inspired by the beige trench coats and leather and denim jackets thrown over the dresses, and the bomber jackets and blazers over the skirts. There’s just something about the camouflage army jacket atop a sparkly gold mini dress complete with a crown on messy, wavy hair that speaks to my feminist soul. It’s as if these outfits themselves confidently proclaim to any woman wearing them, “You got this!”

Here, I started with one of my favorite graphic animal T-shirts. Mine features a gentle elephant, a few daisies and a little Aztec print design, but I would definitely suggest spicing it up with a fierce animal for a more hardcore statement piece of the outfit. I’ve always loved a good gladiator sandal. I purchased these specific ones several years ago, but because they are currently so trendy, there are so many beautiful pairs out there to choose from. If you know me, you know I also love a good cross-body bag, especially if you can rock a brightly colored one to add the perfect pop of color to any neutral based outfit.

Another must-have staple item is a simple plain black skirt and the reason for this being because it can be mixed and matched a million times over. Finding a few pieces that can effortlessly be absorbed into your wardrobe and worn many times without being recognized is a precious piece of clothing in the eyes of any Fashionista. If it’s as hot where you are as it is where I am, you probably can’t even fathom the thoughts of topping your outfit off with a jacket in this summer heat. But I always find myself a little chilly around the office during my work days, so I try to remember to grab some kind of lightweight coat on my way out the door. Saint Laurent proved with this collection that a light jacket still makes for a fabulous accessory even in the warmer weather.

Therefore, Fashionistas, go forth and be inspired by the slip dresses, silk, fur, patchwork denim, sequins, grunge and glitter even in the midst of the warm sunshine. Well done, Saint Laurent. Well done.

Get My Look: 1. A graphic animal T-shirt. 2. A simple black skirt. 3. Light jacket.

Style On^®,

Maggie Dillard

Content originally created for and published on CollegeFashionista.com

March into Spring

Spring is currently in full swing and I’m not sure if I’m more excited about the weather getting warmer, or finally being able to order an iced latte without it causing my hands to go numb. Obviously, another perk of the warmer season is being able to pack away the heavy coats and tights, and bring out the lighter jackets to pair with our booties and dresses. Being someone who particularly loves this look, I got lucky when Versace reinvented it during fashion week in September through the reveal of her spring 2016 ready-to-wear collection.

Donatella Versace paired colors of neutral black, brown, green and burgundy with feisty animal printed patterns, lace, fur, suede and leather in order to create the ultimate ensemble that is the epitome of girl power. She has already revealed that the goal she had in mind when creating these looks was to “do something strong.” So, I decided to try it out for myself.

I started with a statement piece that every girl who adores dresses should own: a little black dress (LBD). It can be worn just about as many times as one heart could desire because of the many ways it can be sported. I added a lace black bralette under mine to add texture and maintain the girly vibe. Next, I wore a lighter suede jacket for color and warmth when that spring sun goes down. I paired this with metallic ankle boots to bring in the combat feel that Versace was aiming for. Then, I added a cheetah print and fringe cross-body bag to resemble the colorful animal patterns that embodied the feisty zest that her collection radiates. To top it off, I added a touch of my own personal style with the chunky stone necklace and beaded choker.

Not only does Versace represent a brand of phenomenal fashion, but she is truly an inspiration to all women. “I know fashion is not something that can change the world, but it can change the woman. It can empower the woman. It can make her strong, in herself, and to believe in herself more,” Versace said.

Although my look was only a mimic of the Versace couture, I still felt the empowering feminist spirit as I pranced around in my little black dress and metallic boots while proudly holding my iced vanilla latte.

Get My Look: 1. Any casual LBD. 2. A pair of ankle boots. 3. Suede jacket. 4. A printed cross-body bag.

Style On^®,

Maggie Dillard

Content originally created for and published on CollegeFashionista.com

Blackened Blue

It’s no secret that the “all-black everything” trend has quickly begun to dominate the fashion industry. Whether it’s going to New York Fashion Week or just to dinner with a friend downtown, it seems that everyone is sporting the black on black look everywhere you turn. Black is slimming, chic and sophisticated, but also manages to achieve that edgy and cool factor that we all strive for. When you have the option, why not wear all-black everything?

For this look, I took from the head to toe black craze and the fall 2015 ready-to-wear collection by Marc Jacobs. I was inspired by the mix of blacks, browns and dark winter blues with the texture of the fur and leather. I started with the ripped black jeggings to create the effortlessly edgy vibe that Marc Jacobs exudes on a daily basis. I layered those with a black and white patterned top and a black faux fur jacket for consistency. For shoes, a short black leather boot is a necessity for running errands, going to class or to town for a quick shopping spree during the winter. Being fashionably relevant is our highest priority, but comfort is definitely key. 

I added a caramel colored felt hat to top off the look and keep it trendy and practical in the windy weather. My favorite aspect of Marc Jacobs’ fall collection was his use of the deep blues for pops of color. Here, I used the cross-body bag to create that same effect. He also took full advantage of the comeback of chokers to accent the neckline in several of his looks. The dark color chosen for the lips continues to keep the piece looking dark and mysterious, but incredibly modish.

 I used Clinique’s Long Last Lipstick in the color Heather Moon.

If Marc Jacobs were ever found in a thesaurus, his synonyms would undoubtedly be “risktaker,” “free spirited,” “fashion genius,” etc. This winter, don’t be afraid to go out of your comfort zone, take a few risks, throw on an all-black ensemble and rock it! If it’s all black, you can’t go wrong.

Get My Look: 1. Ripped black jeggings 2. Faux fur jacket 3. Marc Jacobs blue cross-body bag

Style On^®,

Maggie Dillard

Content originally created for and published on CollegeFashionista.com 

Bye Bye, VS Bikini!

AUGUSTA, GA — As spring break fever is settling over college campuses, the trendy stores are beginning to put out the newest spring styles, and girls are breaking back out their shorts and sandals, we are all left asking one question: where will we buy our bathing suits this year now that they are no longer available at Victoria’s Secret?!

Victoria’s Secret, the one-stop shop for all apparel in the summer, has decided to cancel their swimwear line leaving millions of girls completely devastated.

The bathing suits have not only played an important role in the lives of consumers in the summer, but they have previously been a vital part of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion shows through the ages. The swimwear line even had its own television special in 2015 and 2016. But, the brand has announced that a wider variety of athleisure and activewear will take the bathing suits spot in their over 1,100 stores across the globe.

Although their Pink line will still carry few styles sold online only, Victoria’s Secret customers, some who have only ever wore Victoria’s Secret bathing suits, are unable to adjust to this new change.

“Pink bathing suits totally have different technologies and fits. Younger women prefer Pink, but we still get asked if we have Victoria’s Secret bathing suits all the time,” says Cameron Daggett, the manager of the Victoria’s Secret store in Augusta.

  

The new changes being made to the brand may bring in new positive aspects, but Victoria’s Secret regulars are definitely noticing these alterations.

 

“We still get asked if we have Victoria’s Secret bathing suits all the time, even though people know we don’t sell them anymore,” continues Daggett. “It’s changed the way our consumers view our brand.”              

~Thanks for reading!~

Love,

The Savvy Stylister

Plus-Size Model By Day, Student By Night

2 March, 2017 | By Maggie Dillard

On a cold, early January morning, 6-foot tall, curly-haired Grace Edwards walks in and out of audition after audition in the snowy New York City with her fingers crossed each time hoping to receive a phone call later with a casting for a spot to walk the runway at New York Fashion Week this spring. However, in the mean time, she’ll pass the time using mathematical formulas to solve algebraic equations.

As a plus-size modeling making her way up the cut-throat ladder, Grace has made quite a name for herself as she has signed with three agencies, and now working in New York City with Wilhelmina New York. She stays busy in front of many cameras. But, "model" isn’t her only title. She also goes by "student," as she is also enrolled at the University of West Georgia as an Accounting major. She spends her days on runways and in photoshoots, and she spends her nights solving the world’s numerical problems. 

“Probably not this last summer, but the summer before. So, two summers ago was when I decided that it was something I really wanted to do,” says Grace, now signed with three modeling agencies. “But, I’ve definitely always had an interest, but I never really had the opportunity or the means to do it.

“I shot with this girl that I knew in high school and it was kind of a cool shoot, and she happened to have a cousin that lived in Atlanta who shot models that were signed to agencies,” she explains. Lucky for her, he was able to snap a few shots for her to build a portfolio.

“After I shot with him, he said, ‘You really need to do this. You have the look, you just have to get comfortable in front of the camera.’ And I was like, ‘You know what, I’m going to really focus on getting signed.’ Then, I got signed with [Ursula Wiedmann Models Atlanta] in February, so it’s been almost a year since I first got signed,” she says in a voice just as confident as her model photos posted to her Instagram. “And, she encouraged me to take it even further.”

Ursula knew that the unique look that Grace so elegantly learned to portray behind the camera could take her far, and she continued to pass her portfolio around to other agencies. Grace says, “Ursula knows a lot of people because she used to model for [Elite Model Management], and she’s had models who have gone really far. So, I met Dorothy Combs, who I’m signed with in Miami, through her. I got signed with Dorothy in July, and then last month I had a casting with Wilhelmina. They were really interested and the Curve Director of the Curve Board was like, ‘If you want to come up here, it’s about to be New York Fashion Week, and we could get you castings and see if something could work out,’ and I was like, ‘Of course!’ Ursula set up the casting and everything, but it was really the whole agency that went to the casting and met the scout, but it was just through that connection that I got with Wilhelmina.”

However, modeling isn’t all just pretty people wearing pretty outfits. 

“I worked [two days ago], and then I had a casting yesterday, and I have another one tomorrow. I usually just go to one casting a day, but hopefully, two a day. [I’m] just staying busy going around and doing castings and hoping they turn into jobs," says Grace, who is currently working in New York City for Wilhelmina. "I have a job lined up for a couple weeks from now, but everyday is really unpredictable because it’s kind of like you [find out] the morning of what you’re going to do, but it’s pretty cool," she continues. 

As for her future plans, Grace will always call Georgia home, but she hopes to eventually live in New York City long-term, and continue putting her stunning face in front of many cameras. However, “Along the way, I want to be a business owner with my sister. I want to do something like that because she’s a marketing major and since I’m an accounting major, all we need is a supplier of whatever we want to sell. I think that would be really cool alongside of [modeling],” she says. “I want to finish college first. I’m in a Calculus class right now, and I’m like ‘Ugh, yikes!’, but hopefully I can stick it out for a few more years. I kind of just want to [model] until my middle to late 30s. I want it to be my career. I want to model internationally. 

I just want to do this for as long as I can.”

Grace is rockin' her plus-size body and totally killin' it in the modeling industry. As for now, when she isn’t solving math equations for her online Calculus class, she’s staying goal-minded and hopeful of landing her dream role of walking in this spring’s Fashion Week. “I definitely think my ultimate goal is to be able to completely 

support myself off of modeling for as long as I can." 
Bigger is beautiful. You go, Grace!