Holdin’ Out For A Hero

Despite our enduring love of summer, editors everywhere are obsessing over the hot new trends for A/W 2012. It’s just so exciting – to be overwhelmed with new shows, new stars, new ideas for hair and makeup as well as getting dressed. But that key word – overwhelmed – can be just the problem: sure, they are a billion exciting new trends to choose from, but how do we know which ones are worth it? How do we know which ones will endure past just one season? And perhaps most importantly: how do we save our wallets from cardiac arrest? Well, fear not - we have the answers. Read on for fall’s hero pieces, the true ‘must-haves’ of the season.

1. The pencil skirt

As you can see from Net-A-Porter’s image and skirt selection (which you can find here) above, one of the reasons the pencil skirt is a hero piece is because you can use it to portray any trend, mood or image you like. There are ones with peplums and ones with prints; ones decorated with lame and brocade and ones made from or leather and lace. In short, whatever look you’re into, there’s a pencil skirt for you. Plus they go with pretty much everything (a tucked-in blouse for 9-5 smarts, or a ratty tee for downtown cool) and are infinitely flattering (they give you curves if you don’t have any, and make them look smooth and sexy if you do, and are particularly awesome for those with muscular or larger thighs).

2. The sweater

This piece is as versatile as the pencil skirt: if you’re feeling preppy, go for a cable-knit style in flax from J. Crew, or for a high fashion-cum-street take, try Stella McCartney’s lavishly printed version. If you pick a light specimen and pull the sleeves up (bonus points for fashionable nonchalance), you can start wearing your beloved buy right now.

3. The leather trouser

Forget your worries about these not being flattering – they are. If nightmares of your thighs turning into tree trunks continue to plague you, simply choose a pair that is black and more matte than shiny. Easy peasy. Other reasons we love leather trousers: they can add an air of luxury or even elegance to your outfit, they always make you look more high fashion and feel more badass, and you can get beautiful, tricked-out pairs (gold zips, glorious oxblood, etc.).

Laura Hunter-Thomas,

Ici Fashion

Spice Up Your Poly

The ponytail is a staple in just about everyone's hair arsenal, but let's face it – they get old. Although seeing your face and neck is beautiful, a ponytail can be a bit boring. Since they are so practical, however, you probably don't want to completely cut them out of your hair options. With a few little tricks, you can spice up your 'do and leave your pony looking amazing.

Beautiful Braid

One easy and elegant way to add a bit of style and flair to your pony is to add a braid to the mix. Forget braiding the pony; this style features braid on the underside. To get your pony looking saucy, grab about 90 percent of hair, leaving a small amount on the bottom. Secure the big chunk of hair, and work on braiding the bottom. You can braid in the center of the braid, or you can make it off to the side – both look fabulous.

Secure the braid with a ponytail holder, then work on getting the larger chunk together in a ponytail. Once you do, grab the braid and place it in the ponytail holder, as well. You will be left with a cute braid peeking out from underneath or the side of the ponytail. You could also place your hair in a bun to really show off that pretty braid. Add something sparkly to the mix and you're good to go.

Please Tease Me

The teased pony has been getting lots of attention lately and for good reason – it's hot. Before you go thinking it is too hard to create, think again. A teased ponytail is quite simple and you only need a few items to complete the fabulous look.

Start by working some mousse into your hair; it will help to add volume. Once you do, pull your hair back into a ponytail holder in the middle of the back of your head. Now grab your brush and start to brush towards your forehead. Doing so will create volume. Don't go overboard, however, or you'll end up with the proverbial rat's nest on the top of your head.

Once you get the volume you desire, brush back gently to work out any tangles or weird-looking areas. You can also use your fingers to pull up on the hair to give it a boost. Go back over your 'do with hairspray to keep it in place.

Elegant Pony

If you're going to a formal affair or just want to look stunning, try this super elegant style. Pull your hair back into a low pony, then run some smoothing cream over top to tame any frizz. Leave a strand at the back of your ponytail out, then secure it with a holder. Wrap the piece that is out around the holder so that you can't see it. Tuck the end into the elastic on the underside of the ponytail.

Fold your hair down, then bring it back up towards the underside of your hair so that you create a folded bun. Secure the ends of your hair with bobby pins under the ponytail holder and you're good to go. Your 'do will look so amazing you're sure to get compliments.

Heather Vicchioni,

Ici Fashion

Color Blocking ( Part 2)

Color blocking is a fun and stylish way to add color and originality to your look. Color blocking also allows you to play up certain features you love and play down those you aren't too fond of. If you've never tried color blocking before, you may be weary of which colors to choose. Fortunately, it's fun and easy to pick your hues.

Two Colors

Color blocking typically features two or three colors at a time. When starting off, it may seem easier and less overwhelming to start with two shades. The easiest may be to go with black and white. A black sheath dress that features white edging is stylish and a prime example of color blocking that works. Allowing a garment to do all the work for you when it comes to choosing colors is a simple way to wear the trend. You can also don a shirt or dress that has a geometric pattern on it that features the two hues.

If black and white is too boring for you, go with other shades. Another easy combination is a neutral and a bright. For instance, rocking a tan skirt with a hot pink top introduces a bright color into your wardrobe in a subtle way. Additionally, the tan can make your lower body less noticeable if it bothers you. Want to make your chest seem smaller? Switch the colors and wear the tan on top.

Three Colors

If you're ready to step things up a bit, then go with three hues. Again, you can either buy a shirt or skirt that already has the colors and pattern done for you, or you can get creative and do it yourself.

Pairing two solid colors with a neutral is fun and makes you look fabulous. For instance, if you want all eyes on your upper half, wear a button-down shirt over a T-shirt in solid color, such as yellow and green or blue and orange. Then wear a black or white pant.

If you want to go wild and don three bright colors, you can do so with ease. Pairing green pants with a yellow shirt, then wearing an open pink jacket is not too overwhelming and goes together perfectly. A purple skirt with an orange shirt and pink socks is chic and makes you look like a color blocking fashionista.

The bottom line with color blocking is doing what you feel comfortable with. When you choose colors you think make you look fabulous and pair them together, you'll look and feel amazing.   

Heather Vicchioni,

Ici Fashion

Summer Sensuality

Let’s face it: summer is a difficult season to be sexy. With the exception of those of you who are fortuitously blessed with I-will-look-like-a-Victoria-Secret-model-in-a-swimsuit genes, it’s pretty darn hard. Blame the heat: having to wear as little clothing as possible, and therefore not being able to flatter your figure, combined with makeup literally melting off your face, are not exactly the most inspiring of events when it comes to your self-confidence which is, as everyone knows, the key to sexiness.

And how you feel aside, you can’t rely on the typical sexy fall fallbacks. Leather, corsets, and S&M jewellery are autumn staples, but would be out of place on a tanned summer body, to say the least. So where exactly can we find our summer sensuality?

Our first answer should address our first hurdle: the problem of figure-flattery and looking polishing in high heat. Finding ‘hero’ items for the summer months will be your primary objective: just because it’s hot doesn’t mean you can’t flatter your figure (perhaps loose cropped trousers, or maxi dresses, or fit-and-flare skirts (all of which flatter less-than-model-like stems) will become your best friend) or show the world your beautiful face (invest in anti-shine, oil-control makeup (mineral makeup is god’s gift to oily-skinned women) and remember that a flawless face is all in the preparation – always wear a good mattifier, like Murad’s Oil-Control Mattifier).

Now that the mercury’s rocketing on your ‘Self-Confidence’ and ‘Polish’ metres, what about the encapsulation of sensuality itself? Leather and kink may not fly, but a relaxed, Italian glamour vibe seems like common sense. Pair a simple-but-sexy fit and flare dress (it’s flattering and heat-friendly!) with chic lace-up-the-leg sandals. Finish with piles of gold jewellery (bejewelled cross pendants and panther bangles get extra points), and you’re all set.

Laura Hunter-Thomas,

Ici Fashion

Style Update

Sure, it might be the height of summer, encapsulated in blissful sunny days (accompanied by high SPF, of course), mai tais and good company, but is anyone else feeling the style itch? I personally think it’s high time for an update. Here are the top 3 trends we can expect to see this fall. Start working them into your wardrobe now for the bonus ‘Trendsetter’ badge.

1. Country club

Designers of every aesthetic saddled up at the A/W 2012 shows – we saw numerous equestrian-inspired pieces, from quilted jackets to riding boots to luxurious fur-and-khaki parkas. This trend has to be worked into your look quite carefully, as too much will have you labeled a sartorially-challenged rah, while too little can look like an out-of-place afterthought. Find a balance with equestrian elements that err more on the trendy than classic side. For a perfect example of this, see Riccardo Tisci’s sexy take on the trend at the Givenchy A/W 2012 show.

2. S&M

This is no surprise: leather is going to be big. Every fall season, ‘sexy’ comes swinging (pun intended) back into style. Sometimes we see handcuff bracelets (I’m still lusting over last year’s Louis Vuitton stunners); sometimes we see bondage-themed halters – but no matter what, we always see plenty of leather. We love the ASOS Premium Pleat Skirt In Leather, which would look gorgeous paired with a tight, tucked-in nude cable knit sweater for a trend double whammy.

3. Baroque and roll

Minimalism is for wimps. Think embellishment, gilt and jewels aplenty. If you’re (understandably) a little nervous about rocking the trend in ‘real life’, ease into it with accessories. Jewellery aside, there are going to plenty of options to get you started: embellished shoes, crystal-studded bags, etc. We recommend the Kenneth Jay Lane Empire Pendant Necklace at Zappos for an extra hit of Italian/Greek glamour.

Laura Hunter-Thomas,

Ici Fashion

How To Colorblock

Colorblocking may sound like some interior design technique, but it can actually make you look even better than you already do. By using certain colors in strategic places, you can make your body look amazing. Colorblocking allows you to play up the features you love, and downplay those you aren't so fond of.

Have It Done For You

If you're unsure of how to go about with the colorblocking technique, have someone else do it for you. This is possible when you wear pieces that already have the colorblocking patterns on them. Shirts and dresses that feature geometric patterns of color are not only eye-catching, but they often make you appear more sleek and sexy.

If you don't like your lower half, your goal is to draw the eyes to your upper body. Do this by choosing a dress that has those geometric patterns on its top. Or choose a shirt that features the same technique. The dress should be a darker color on the bottom to disguise what you don't like. And if you're wearing a shirt, pair it with pants, shorts or a skirt that is darker.

Pick Your Pieces

You should follow the same rules when you are wearing separates. If you like your hips and legs, but aren't too fond of your tummy and arms, make your lower half the star of the show. You can do this by wearing a colorful bottom and a solid top. For instance, a skirt that is bright or has eye-catching patterns on it should be paired with a black or dark-colored top. This combination will bring the focus to your sexy hips and legs instead of your upper half.

Have Fun

If you simply enjoy colorblocking and aren't doing it just to make your body look better, you can totally  just have fun with it. Go super feminine by rocking a pink top and an orange skirt. Bring the outfit together by wrapping a thin blue belt around your waist. You'll look seriously stylish and fabulous.

If you're unsure if your colors work together, reign them in with another piece that features both hues. For instance, if you wear pink pants and a blue top, go ahead and wrap a scarf around your neck or waist that features those colors. This brings the whole outfit together and makes you look super chic.

You may be surprised just how fun colorblocking is and how beautiful it can make your body look. Go ahead and get creative with it, and you're sure to score a few compliments.    

Heather Vicchioni,

Ici Fashion

Seeing Gold

Stats

Full name: Laura Helen Hunter-Thomas.

Age: 20 years old.

Double life: London-bound athlete and fashion editor (JNSQ iPad & iPhone magazine).

Most of the people who know me have no idea what it is I do in my ‘other life’. They either know me as a Nike-sporting, perpetually sweaty athlete gunning for the Olympics (I have been selected to attend the London 2012 Summer Games as an official training partner for the US women’s saber fencing team), or as an obsessed-with-Dannijo-and-the-fall-season fashion editor who refuses to wear less than a two-inch heel.

While most might struggle to draw a parallel between the two, I personally argue that neither incarnation demands less dedication than the other. As an elite athlete, I am used to pushing myself beyond my own limits on a daily basis (it helps that I train with the double Olympic Champion, the incredible Mariel Zagunis), and as a fashion editor - well! Have you ever tried hot yoga after a day of critiquing shows while subsisting entirely on Starbucks and chasing street style photographers in five-inch heels?

Joking aside, I spend my life – whether in my athletic or glamorous guise – in pursuit of perfection, and as we draw closer to the Olympics, we shine the spotlight on those who have spent their whole lives doing the same thing. Such dedication, sacrifice and self-discipline will prove to be the key to the athletes’ success, but that is no secret. The real secret is what lies behind all this hard work – what motivates someone to keep giving 110%, every day of their lives? Below, my tips to finding – and keeping – your passion and staying motivated.

FIND TIME FOR FUN

It’s important to make room in your life for relaxation. All work and no play is the fastest route to burnout I know. I dedicate a lot of hours to writing, working out in the gym and sparring, but I always make sure to carve out time in my schedule for a bit of gentle yoga, trashy reality TV or day trips to the beach. Whatever it is you like to do for fun, make sure to find time for it on a regular basis (I find once a week minimum to be necessary).

DREAM…AND DREAM BIG

Remember why you’re doing whatever it is you’re dedicating your time to. Sometimes we can get bogged down in the drudgery of the day-to-day necessities when it comes to our dreams. We all love watching the crowning of a new Olympic Champion, but what we often don’t realize is how rare this kind of moment is for the athlete. Their daily lives aren’t coloured gold – the only metallic element present is the taste of the blood, sweat and tears necessary to achieve their dreams. Never forget why you’re doing this. Hold on to your golden moment, and keep reaching for it every single day.

TAKE A BREAK

Sometimes, it can all just get too much. If you find yourself suffering from burnout, don’t assume you’re done, or a failure. There have been times in my career when I’ve truly resented what I do – I’ve quit my blog, actively tried to avoid training sessions – but eight years on, I’m still doing it. Going hell for leather for too long can foster a natural aversion to the exercise in question, but don’t worry - a short break is just what the doctor ordered. I find a change in scenery (to the Caribbean, preferably!) to be quite refreshing, but just a clean break in your day-to-day life can do the trick: avoid even talking about the exercise in question for a while, and you’ll be back to championship form in no time.

Laura Hunter-Thomas,

Ici Fashion