Home for the Holidays…literally!

Over the past COVID months,  I made the effort nearly every day to go for a walk, do some weight training and stretching, get dressed wearing clothes (not sweats) and put makeup on even just to go wait in line at the grocery store.  I know, for myself, it would have been a downward spiral if I didn’t make some sort of personal effort.  But, how I miss really getting dressed!!!  Now that the holidays are here I am excited to share some great looks!

My last post was a collaboration with Marc Cain and my “return” post is with them as well!  There clothing makes me feel great!  Great fabrics, amazing color, the ability to mix, and for me, fantastic fit!!  If you like standout pieces Marc Cain is also worth checking out…

This holiday season is truly looking like we will all be Home for the Holidays…literally!  Styling is by Marc Cain The Westchester’s Manager, Virginia.  We’ve put together many looks  – some are more casual, but still pulled together.  Some are dressy.  But all are unique!!  Additionally, we wanted to highlight the mix and match capability of the clothes and Marc Cain’s approach and passion for color.

COZY COLOR:

Unexpected holiday color, this blush floral print is the foundation.  Mixed with a cream faux fur vest, black leather fanny pack and black booties.

Mixed with a shiny black top and sneakers…this is ideal as a comfortable, festive holiday look, especially if your the hostess of a casual holiday meal.

Amazing reversible faux fur grey outerwear piece

The flip side

 

REPTILE PRINT MANY WAYS:

These reptile pants are incredibly versatile!!  Worn with a baby pink cashmere sweater, bright pink coat and patent leather hiking boots.

For fun, add a hat and a fur collar…

Pair them with a printed sweater, white patent booties and a soft fleece handbag.

Take them simple and classic with a silk top, classic pump and clutch.  (BTW – the classic black coat in the background is stunning.  Has removable ostrich feather pocket detail!!)

BURGUNDY!!

Burgundy leather leggings with a cozy burgundy turtleneck sweater, fleece bag and classic pumps.  Love this easy look for an at home gathering. Works great with an ankle boot too.

Going more casual…Same burgundy legging worn with a silk blouse and soft plaid cape.  The gold booties are lined with the softest fur – no socks needed!!

 

CHIC LEATHER:

Machine washable faux leather wide legged culotte worn with a sheer sequined top with white underpinning.  The houndstooth coat is embellished with a soft blue faux fur collar accessory. Dress down look – pair the culotte with a cashmere sweater and bootie.

 

UNIQUE JACKET:

Having a unique jacket in your closet makes getting dressed so easy! This velvet-like embellished fabric with removable burgundy faux fur collar is paired with a simple striped tee and skinny jeans and white western style boot.  The cobalt blue cross body adds another pop of color.  This jacket reverses to black patent leather!

BOLD COLOR:

Wearing hunter green leather leggings with a bold, colorful floral print scuba jacket and chartreuse scarf and bag.

Hunter green leggings worn with a stunning emerald green velvet blazer, chartreuse carry-all and scarf worn around the wrist.

SURPRISING COLOR COMBO:

Coral and baby blue – a surprisingly beautiful combo!  The printed scuba cropped pant and coral turtleneck are a natural pair.  Mixed with baby blue pieces – sumptuous faux fur jacket, booties, hat and leather gloves.  The scarf picks up all of the colors.

CLASSIC SUIT WITH A TWIST:

Menswear-inspired black classic double breasted wool suit with soft pink windowpane and cropped pant.  No shirt – just a feminine scarf balances the masculine.

Windowpane suit worn with a beautiful soft pink faux fur coat.

WHY NOT GET DRESSED UP:

Even if your staying home for the holidays, why not get dressed up?!  This stunning separates outfit is embellished with Swarovski crystals on the tuxedo striped skinny pant and the bell sleeve of the belted top has beautiful crystal buttons.

MRS CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN:

A super comfy stretch jersey suit with herringbone pattern combined with baby blue accessories… Who would have thought??  Added twist, burgundy shoes and bag!!

 

Have fun with fashion!!  Combine color and pattern; masculine and feminine and you’ll have an unexpected, chic look!  All pieces in the post are Marc Cain and available at their store at The Westchester in White Plains, NY.

Wishing you the happiest holiday wherever your home may be!  I bid farewell to 2020 and welcome renewal and all happy, healthy things for you in 2021!!

Thanks for stopping by… Cynthia

Marc Cain Collaboration

Marc Cain is a German brand that has been in my local mall, The Westchester in White Plains, NY for a few years.  I am huge fan of the brand – love the fabrics, the styling, the tailoring, the mix of color and pattern that are trademarks of the brand.  Additionally, I love how they put a twist on the classics to make them more modern and feminine.  I now own a number of Marc Cain pieces (not everything shown in this post unfortunately) and I love taking my clients and friends to the store.

For the Marc Cain Collaboration photos, the outfits are styled by myself and Virginia, the stylish, helpful and knowledgeable Manager of the White Plains location.  (She’s also the photographer) All accessories are Marc Cain as well.  Our hope is to show that Marc Cain clothing looks great on regular women!

Marc Cain’s iconic leopard print is in the following 3 photos where we are showing the versatility of how one pair of wide-leg  trousers with a racing stripe can be worn 3 different ways.

1. The classic power suit worn with a scarf, classic black pump and smart handle, satchel bag.

2. Wide-leg trouser worn with an amazing second skin button-up turtleneck, black cashmere coat and black patent bootie.

3. Wide-leg trouser worn with a playful and practical double-zip windbreaker and a safari style shoulder bag.

The easy, leopard print tunic with pockets is a great addition to anyone’s wardrobe.  Here it’s paired with a black cashmere coat, and a gorgeous suede, block heel boot. But would also be great with a sneaker, ankle boot or heel.  The collar turns up to reveal a zebra print pattern.

This comfortable neoprene fabric mixed with sheer prints create an elegant look.  Pair with a classic cashmere coat and classic pump and handbag for a dressy look…

…or worn with over-the-knee boots and a vest for a chic, casual look.

Marc Cain offers a variety of dresses…this jersey maxi dress made up of semi-chromatic colors paired with diagonal stripes is a fun piece!  Worn with white patent booties, but can easily be worn with sneakers, knee-high boots or a heel.  The ultra lightweight puffer synches to compliment your shape.

The tunic dress synches at the waist and the floral print is inspired by the amaryllis belladonna flower of South Africa.

A Plaid coat in the same colors perfectly compliments the dress and easily transitions to Spring.

Modern suiting is a Marc Cain specialty!  This is a trouser and vest worn with their fabulous second skin turtleneck.  The pieces are great as separates as well!

If your looking for chic sportswear check out Marc Cain.  These neoprene joggers are flattering and can be worn super casual with sneakers or could be worn with the suiting vest above as an unexpected pairing.

An example of a great classic – Camel trousers, paired with a camel cashmere top coat worn with classic burgundy accessories, a leopard print silk scarf and white blouse.

Marc Cain offers beautiful fabrics, excellent tailoring, a modern take on suiting, a variety of dresses, great color options, fabulous outerwear, stylish sportswear, super essentials, gorgeous accessories, bags and footwear in a beautiful, full-service boutique setting.  Check them out at The Westchester Mall in White Plains or at a few other locations in the U.S.  Tell them Cynthia sent you…

Thank you for stopping by….Cynthia

 

 

Central Park Conservancy

On this special May Day, I had the pleasure of being a guest at The Women’s Committee of the Central Park Conservancy’s 37th Annual Frederick Law Olmsted Award Luncheon held at The Conservatory Garden in Central Park (at 105th Street and 5th Avenue). Three women were honored with the Award this year for their hard work and dedication to the organization.  The Women’s Committee, a powerful team of fundraisers and Park Ambassadors, raises an incredible $10 million of the $80 million annual budget and over $175 million to date.  Now with a membership of 1,000 women strong, their programs enable anyone to make an investment in the Park.  The Central Park Conservancy – a not-for-profit organization founded in 1980 – is to restore, manage, and enhance Central Park in partnership with the public, for the enjoyment of all.  The Conservancy raises the Park’s nearly $80 million annual operating budget and is responsible for the work essential to keeping Central Park beautiful.

The event is a spectacle of fashion and creativity!!  My girlfriend Kimberly, a member of the Women’s Committee Board, advised all of her guests to wear a hat or hairpiece to this unique event.  I had no idea the Fashion, Flowers and Fascinators (and hats) would be so fanciful, imaginative and gravity-defying!!

Following are photos from this very special day… My girlfriend and generous hostess is the stunner in marigold!! (That’s me in the polka dots – chilly day so wore my fur stole)

 

Puppy topiary topper with leash

A forest in a hat with an owl on top

The Conservatory Garden – sadly you can’t see the gorgeous tulips surrounding the area

I heard Brooke Shields and Martha Stewart attended but did not see them.  However, I did see Mayor Bloomberg who was also sporting a hat! (Below)

After the cocktail reception in the garden we headed inside the tent which held over 1,300 guests!

What an unforgettable event!  Thank you to all that generously give their time and money to keep Central Park spectacular! I loved seeing all of the enthusiasm, creativity and effort put into the fashion and the hair pieces! When you walk through Central Park look around, appreciate and think of all of the effort that goes into keeping it beautiful. Thank you to my dear friend Kimberly for having me!!

Thanks for stopping by….Cynthia

 

 

 

Styling with Color – Look 2

Styling with color is a fun and creative process.  I think most people default to typical and quiet combinations.  Clearly some colors compliment eachother and others do not – but I dare you to push the envelope and create a bit of surprise with your outfits.

The JCrew outfit here, styled for a casual party or even a meal out, combines a dressier, stiffer, lace fabric in the trouser with a super cozy, soft turtleneck sweater.  A more common decision would be to  dress up the red lace pant.  By combining a stiff fabric with a soft sweater in a warm color, like camel, relaxes the outfit and makes it feel more casual.  It also makes the pant more versatile.  By pairing with an unexpected combination of accessories like a tartan scarf and leopard print shoes and gloves makes the outfit more interesting.

Try styling with color by pairing combos you would not normally put together and combine a dressier piece with a casual piece – it will open up a whole new wardrobe world!!

Follow my instagram @cynhudstyle for looks and inspiration.

And find details about an upcoming event at JCrew, New Canaan, CT on Wednesday, December 12, 2018.

SHOP THE LOOK – see links below photos.

Lace Pant

Turtleneck sweater with side slits in supersoft yarn

Tartan scarf

Italian Calf Hair Touch Leather Tech Gloves

Cabana Reader Sunglasses

Earrings (similar)

Block heel pumps in leopard (similar)

I hope you are going to challenge yourself to try new color combinations?  Thanks for stopping by…Cynthia

Color for Personal Style – Look 1

As a lover of color, I believe it is a useful tool when creating your own personal style and unique looks. Mixing unexpected combinations and using colorful accessories, makes the outfit and most importantly, makes YOU stand out.

I have always loved JCrew, especially for it’s unique point-of-view. Consistently combining and styling color in fresh ways.  Which is why I was thrilled to be invited to collaborate with JCrew to host an event in their New Canaan, CT store with a focus on “Color Styling”.

The event is at JCrew:

Wednesday, December 12/10:30-2:00/ 24 Elm Street/ New Canaan, CT

Please come see me at the event!  I’ll be there offering my help, tips and styling advice.  Enjoy the discounts and if you mention my name, Cynthia Hudson, receive a cute, JCrew tote bag.

Follow my instagram @cynhudstyle – I’ll be posting all my JCrew looks this week!!!

Here is one of four looks I put together (more to come – check back).  This is a Chic Day Look – I love the combination of white, chartreuse and grey with the added pop of burgundy accessories to elevate the outfit.  And, metallics always add elegance and are a basic, so the gold bootie works well with this look.  Style Tip: Wear a lip color that matches a color you are wearing.  Chose a burgundy lip color to pick up the burgundy accessories. (If I am not wearing a color appropriate for the lip, I would choose to enhance my eye color and wear a nude lip.  For instance, a deep grey eye shadow, to match the cape, with a lip gloss or a nude/beige.)

SHOP THE LOOK – links below photos.

Burgundy gloves and burgundy snake skin print – luxe accessories add elegance.

Gold boots (metallic shoe) add lustre and tie the metals and embellishments together.

Jeweled embellished Fair Isle crewneck sweater

9″ high rise toothpick jean in white

Faux shearling poncho

Harper mini satchel in snake embossed leather

Cashmere-lined leather tech gloves

Ribbed beanie with faux-fur pom pom

Pave hoop earrings

Sadie ankle boot in metallic gold

Bring more color into your wardrobe!  Hope to see you at the event and thanks for stopping by….Cynthia

Fall Inspiration

Finally, it feels like Fall here in New York State!!  The air is crisp, the leaves are turning, the neighbors Halloween decorations are assembled, the markets are filled with local apples and pumpkins so naturally, I’m thinking Fall fashion.  Every season, but particulary in the Fall, I look for Fall Inspiration.  Whether it be for me personally or to assist my clients with new outfits, a style update or continuing to build their wardrobes and ultimately, their confidence.

Below are four looks I really like for the season.  These are all high end designers – go for it if you can!  But if you can’t, take inspiration from these looks and put together your own.

 

COLORFUL PLAID

I’m a lover of plaids and tartans so I am always drawn to this kind of pattern.  Plus, its a classic.  My daughter attends a University in Scotland. When I visit,  I am pulled into every store with a plaid anything in the window (of which there are many).  The looks below are pretty subtle, go even bolder with busier plaids and brighter color.

Designer: Lela Rose    Image:  Stylecaster

 

BUSTIER BODICE

So glamorous and flattering – the bustier bodice is a winner!!

Designer: Tadashi Shoji    Image: Stylecaster

 

FUR ACCENTS

Accenting with fur makes it so easy to elevate an outfit.  Whether you wear a fur vest, scarf, wrap, gloves with a fur touch, hats and so on, you are adding style effortlessly.  Furthermore, show your confidence and wear fur in a bright color.

Designer: Tanya Taylor      Image:  Stylecaster

 

 

SEQUIN SUITS

Suits – yes, always!  Everyone looks great in a suit.  Amped up with sequins – so gorgeous and feminine.  I love menswear done especially for the gals!

Designer: Marcel Ostertag     Image: Stylecaster

 

Hope I got your Fall Inspiration juices flowing!  Best wishes for a fashionable Fall and, as always, thanks for stopping by…Cynthia

 

Fall Fashion 2017

Summer 2017 is coming to a very quick close.  Kids are heading back to school, I’m getting back to my regular routine and thankfully, the Fall Fashion season is upon us!!  It’s like an annual ritual for me – gather the September Fashion magazines, check out Pinterest, and browse my favorite clothing stores for inspiration.  I gather, I contemplate and then I narrow down my favorite fashion trends for the season.

I like a lot of what is out there, however, these are my four favorite trends for Fall Fashion 2017:

 

I love outerwear and a cozy and stylish shearling is a simple way to look on trend.  Throw on over a top and jeans with great footwear and you are set!

 

I always seem to lean toward a plaid/check – classic for sure, but if you are willing to mix prints – super stylish.

 

Loving Burgundy – always have – and happy to see it “in” this Fall season.  Burgundy is beautiful head-to-toe, but it also compliments blue, black, grey, white and metallics, and is a chic accessory.

Gucci Medium GG Marmont 2.0 Matelasse Velvet Shoulder Bag

 

After a dress, what is easier than a pantsuit to look pulled together?  Slim or slouchy – go with what looks best on you.

Hope these images and trends provide you with a bit of Fall Fashion inspiration.  If they appeal to you, try to find something to add to your wardrobe and help you put together your own updated style for the season.

Thanks for stopping by….Cynthia

 

Images:  stylecaster.com

Fall Fashion

Fall Fashion, the clothing season I love most, is nearly here!!  The Fall Runways showed all sorts of fabulous trends – many very classic and wearable.  Those resonating with me most are Cross Body Stoles, Gray Plaid, Navy Overcoats, Off-the-Shoulder, Pin Stripe Suiting, Shearling Bombers, Statement Fur and Velvet!!

Shown here are runway images.  Below each example is a wearable and affordable example of the trend.  Click on the link for more information or to purchase.

CROSS BODY STOLES

I love a fur accessory and wearing a luxurious stole across your body is a fun and versatile way of using it.  Definitely makes a statement and shows you’ve got confidence.

cross body stoles

zara fur stole

Zara Small Fur Stole

 

GRAY PLAID

I will never tire of gray plaid and I am happy to see this classic is hot this Fall!  So many ways to wear – casual, for work, and even dressy and a super wardrobe staple and builder.

gray plaid

 

theory 2

Theory Double Faced Wool

 

NAVY OVERCOAT

Perhaps you already have a navy overcoat – please wear it!!  This is another classic worth having in your wardrobe and since it is on trend for Fall, wear it with everything.

navy overcoat

JCrew Navy Topcoat

JCrew Lady Day Coat with Gold Buttons

 

OFF-THE-SHOULDER

This is such a feminine and flattering look.  If you didn’t get a top for Spring and Summer, it’s time to get either a long-sleeved top for Fall or a great dress.

off-the-shoulder-trend

Milly Selena Off the Shoulder Midi Dress

Milly ‘Selena’ Off the Shoulder Midi Dress (Nordstrom)

 

PIN STRIPE SUITING

A sharp and classic fabric – just a pair of slacks or a blazer would be a superb addition to your wardrobe and have you on trend but will work for years.

pin stripe suiting

Zara pin stripe trouser

Zara Pinstripe Trouser

 

SHEARLING BOMBER

Fun, fun!!  A chunky and cozy outerwear piece that makes a big statement.  Go faux and save a few bucks.

shearling bomber

Zara Suede Effect and Fleecy Jacket

Zara Suede Effect and Fleecy Jacket

 

STATEMENT FUR

Here is an opportunity to show off your personality and individuality. (Faux is fine.)

statement fur jcrew

Zara Multicoloured Faux Fur Jacket

Zara Multicoloured Faux Fur Jacket

 

SHADES OF TAN

Elegant, classic, cozy…cannot go wrong adding something tan.  Goes with everything for any occasion!

tan-color-trend

JCrew Cashmere Tan Top

JCrew Collection double-faced cashmere top

 

VELVET

Luxurious and chic –  a velvet blazer or even a velvet sneaker would work hard this Fall.

velvet

Anthroplogie Eve Velvet Blazer

Anthropologie Eve Velvet Blazer

Have fun with Fall Fashion and make selections that suit your personal style, update and build your wardrobe and boost your confidence!!

Thanks for stopping by…Cynthia

Runway Images: Stylecaster.com

Zara Sale Picks

Rarely a conversation about shopping passes without being asked the question, “Where is your favorite place to shop?”  The thing is, I don’t really have a very favorite place, I have many favorite places each fulfilling a different need or desire.  However, if the question were asked, “Where is your favorite place to shop for well-priced pieces to update a wardrobe?”  My answer, without hesitation would be, Zara!!

Zara happens to be having a fantastic sale right now – everything in store and on the website is marked down.  I did a little on-line shopping and my Zara Sale Picks are below.  Click on the link and shop – don’t hesitate – someone else could be putting your item in their bag.

Poplin Top $35.99

Fresh, crisp and goes with everything.

zara4

Long Blouse $35.99

Chic, easy and great over jeans and leggings.

zara5

Off the Shoulder Top $25.99

Trendy, sexy and fun – must-have this summer.

zara6

Long Parka $79.99

This Parka rocks – it’s chic and functional.

zara

Embroidered Top $39.99

Trendy and easy – love over white jeans.

zara3

Faux Leather Jacket $49.99

For the price, this bright green jacket is a fun addition to a wardrobe.

zarasale

Oversize Denim Waistcoat $39.99

A long denim vest like this is versatile and a great layering piece – goes over everything.

zarasummer

Office Citi Bag $39.99

A white handbag is a nice accessory to own.  Since it’s only useful part of the year, the price makes this very palatable.  Great dressy or with jeans.

zarabag

Mini Vinyl Citi Bag (Black) $25.99

This cute little “clear” bag is chic – great in black or white.

zarabag2

Mini Vinyl Citi Bag (White) $25.99

zarabag3

Hope you enjoy shopping my Zara Sale Picks!!

Thanks for stopping by…Cynthia

Stacked Heel Sandals

Stacked Heel Sandals (aka Block Heels) are a Spring Trend I recommend because of their versatility and comfort – and they’re cute!  Stacked heels work with skirts, shorts, pants, dresses and, of course, denim (another hot Spring trend).  They come in many heights providing great options and they are comfortable because the heel offers more surface area for stability.

I’ve selected a few options I think would make great updates to a wardrobe.  They represent different price points but I feel all versatile depending on your personal style.  Click on the link above the photo to learn more about the selection or to purchase – all are available at Nordstrom.

 

Steve Madden ‘Carrson’ Sandal

block heels 1

 

Steve Madden ‘Irenee’ Ankle Strap Sandal

block heels 2

Lucky Brand ‘Toni’ Stacked Heel Sandal

_block heels 12

Ted Baker London ‘Lorno’ Sandal

block heels 3

Balenciaga Wood Heel Sandal

block heels 4

Burberry ‘Cashel’ Ankle Strap Sandal

block heels 5

Badgley Mischka ‘Clove’ Evening Sandal

block heels 6Dolce Vita ‘Lyndon’ Lace-Up Sandal

block heels 7

Steve Madden ‘Slinng’ Sandal

block heels 8

Steve Madden ‘Sofila’ Sandal

 

block heels 11

Vince Camuto ‘Ceara’ Sandalblock heel 14

AGL Attilio Giusti Leombruni ‘Coty’ Block Heel Sandal

block heels 13

Stuart Weitzman ‘Nearly Nude’ Ankle Strap Sandal

block heels 9

Ivanka Trump ‘Klover’ Block Heel Ankle Strap Sandal

block heels 10

Hope you will consider adding a stacked heel sandal to update your Spring (and summer) wardrobe!

Thanks for stopping by!!  Cynthia