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

 

 

FALL FASHION 2019

Cooler Temps! Autumn Colors! Halloween Decorations!  All add up to Fall and that means it’s time for Fall Fashion!  Dressing in layers, wearing heavier fabrications, deeper colors, outerwear….all the things I adore.

Fall Fashion 2019 trends I am loving follow.  Below the inspiration photo are photos and links if you are interested in learning more or purchasing.

LEATHER on LEATHER

Leather is classic but sexy and layering it is super chic!

Image: marieclaire.com

http://ZARA Faux Leather Jacket

http://ZARA Faux Leather Legging

 

SMART SUITS

Always a fan of a power suit – a great investment that you will feel super confident wearing!

Image: Marie Claire.com

http://Marc Cain Blazer and Trouser with subtle check

 

JEWEL TONES

Exude confidence wearing bold, bright color – easily done in an outerwear piece.

http://Blank NYC Colour Block Faux Fur Coat

 

CAPES

So many style options to choose from.  If your lifestyle is casual choose a casual style.  If your classic choose a trench style.  You can’t make a wrong choice.

Chloe – Image: Marieclaire.com

 

http://Ellen Tracy Faux Fur Cape

 

ANIMAL PRINTS

These are never out of style…but this season animal prints are showing up on everything from lingerie to sneakers.  Add a piece to your wardrobe.

Image: Marieclaire.com

http://Zara Faux Suede Coat

 

 

Best Wishes for a Fall Season filled with good health, good times and leather or faux leather, jewel tones, animal prints, a cape and a sexy, power suit!

Thanks for stopping by…. Cynthia

Effortless Summer Dressing

Do you want to look cool, fresh, chic, put-together, effortless and stylish this summer?  Then keep your clothing simple!

Summer dressing for me is about easy pieces that make you look like you tried but keep you feeling and looking fresh and cool all day.  Dresses and jumpsuits are are my staples in the summer – lightweight, flowing, looser fit are the qualities I tend to look for, especially for everyday.  Additionally, they are fun to accessorize with jewelry, shoes and handbags to change the look.

Here are a few selections (all Nordstrom) with links to purchase or more information:

I love a shirtdress!!  This can easily be worn with a sneaker, sandal, or bootie and it will transition well to the fall with a long sleeve top underneath or a jean jacket.

Lou & Grey Tie Shirtdress

Try a casual jumpsuit to change up your wardrobe.  Super comfortable, easy and cool because when it gets really humid your thighs won’t touch 🙂

Lou & Grey Brushmarl Jumpsuit

Midi-length dress – this one is intended as a beach cover but I love it as a dress too (love the pockets)!  Try wearing it with a bikini top in place of a bra.

TAVIK Serena Midi Cover Up

Casual body-con dress. This comes in numerous colors – great with flip flops, a sandal or a heel.

Leith Ruched Body-Con Tank Dress

A feminine wrap dress!  Flattering on so many body types and perfect for so many occasions.

Jason Wu X ELOQUII Floral Print Ruffle Trim Warp Dress

An breezy A-line!  When it’s hot you will look cool in this.

ALL SAINTS Romey Sleeveless High/Low Dress

A slip dress!  Going shopping or out to lunch?  This is so much cuter than shorts and a tee.

Reformation Halsten Slip Dress

Stylish Jumpsuit – If you don’t have one yet this is a piece to add to your wardrobe.  Don’t like to show your arms – wear with a light weight jacket, blazer or cropped cardigan.  There are many styles available in jumpsuits – there is one to fit your body type!

Reformation Gilda Crop Wide Leg Jumpsuit

Easy and effortless equals chic and fresh…Enjoy one-piece dressing for your most fabulous summer yet!

Thanks for stopping by….Cynthia

Valentine’s Day

St. Valentine’s Day dates back centuries and contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. There are many stories about who is Saint Valentine. * One story depicts a Roman priest who performed secret weddings against the wishes of the authorities in the third century. Imprisoned in the home of a noble, he healed his captor’s blind daughter, causing the whole household to convert to Christianity and sealing his fate.  Before being tortured and decapitated on February 14, he sent the girl a note signed, “Your Valentine”.

No matter the history, it continues to be the day lovers express romantic gestures through cards, chocolates and gifts.  This Valentine’s Day treat yourself (or your Valentine) to the gift of lingerie. The gift of lingerie is so personal and special and there are so many beautiful options, no matter your taste, preferences or confidence 😉  There is nothing quite like wearing feminine undergarments.  Leave something to the imagination and find a style or a piece that suits your figure and makes you feel fabulous!

Here are a few options by Intimissimi, an Italian clothing label which specializes in bras, briefs, lingerie, vests and pyjamas for women and men. (Intimissimi for Men)

Intimissimi L’Amour You Tulle and Lace Babydoll

Sexy Mesh Balconette Bra

Sexy Mesh Cheeky Panties

Sexy Mesh Lace and Microfiber Cheeky Panties

Viscose Satin Kimono

Full Bloom Viscose Satin Kimono

Full Bloom Elena Balconette Bra

Full Bloom Cheeky Panties

Intimissimi Sexy Mesh Viscose Satin and Lace Petticoat

Nordstrom offers complete sizing for everything they carry.  Here are a few plus-size lingerie options at Nordstrom.

 

Natori Luxe Shangi-La Nightgown

Oh La La Valentine Lace Teddy

 

Oh La La Cheri Adelle Teddy

Valentine’s Day/Evening is a few weeks away.  Plan ahead and treat yourself or the one you love to something personal and special!

Thanks for stopping by…Cynthia

*History.com

Red Rocks – JCrew Event – Looks 3 and 4

Red Rocks!!  It’s great as the main event or the perfect accent color.

I will be at JCrew New Canaan, CT – TOMORROW, Wednesday, December 12 for a Special Color Style Focus Event:   10:30-2pm/24 Elm Street, New Canaan, CT.  I would love to assist you putting together a great look using color or a thoughtful gift!

Be sure to :  “Mention Cynthia Hudson and in addition to promotional discounts get another 20% off your purchase of $125 or more and a FREE JCrew tote bag”

Red Rocks as the main event in the first JCrew look here.

I styled it as an outfit which could be worn any cold day, as a really great sport spectator look or heading to cut down the Christmas tree outfit.  Layered with a cozy and trendy sherpa toggle coat over a classic wool fair isle sweater with red accessories, curvy toothpick jeans and awesome Nordic boots (love the red laces).  Of course, you need your cool sunnies too!

SHOP THE LOOK – below pics of this look.

Sherpa Toggle Coat

Crewneck sweater in vintage fair isle

Curvy toothpick denim

Ribbed beanie with faux-fur pom pom

Glitten glove in cashmere blend

Nordic Boots

Sunglasses (similar)

The following JCrew look started out as a dressy look with the burnout velvet leopard skirt and sequined cable knit sweater with chandelier earrings but then by pairing it with the silver bootie (my own) and camp socks it went much less serious – I love it for a party but also as a unique day look too.

Red Rocks here as the accent color in the sunglasses, the coat and the socks.

SHOP THE LOOK – below photos

A touch of whimsy with the camp socks.

Wear a beret and the look goes French chic!

The sweater has beautiful details – the sequins make it a sweater you can dress up.

Cable-knit sequin sweater

Slip skirt in burnout velvet leopard

Daphne topcoat in Italian boiled wool

Loopy stitch oversized cable-knit scarf

Camp socks

Beret (similar)

Crystal and pearl chandelier earrings

Seaside Round Cateye Sunglasses

Harper continental wallet in metallic Italian leather

Remember RED ROCKS!!  Hope to see you tomorrow and 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

Men’s Holiday Style

The holidays are creeping in quickly so now is the time for you to be thinking about stepping up your holiday style game!  The key to looking put together is wearing clothing that fits you properly.  The minute you step out in properly fitting clothes you will feel SO much more confident and carry yourself taller!!

Tips for Men’s Holiday Style: Wear classic pieces with a twist like a blazer styled as a tuxedo, velvet sportcoats, monochromatic combinations.

Here are a few ideas for dressy and casual holiday looks, as well as, formal occasions:

Navy blazer styled as a tuxedo with a black silk peak lapel and flap pockets.  Worn here with a custom black stretch cotton button down with smoke buttons.  Can wear this with dark jeans, a black 5-pocket or with matching trouser.

A grey velvet blazer worn over a black button down with black trousers. Pop of color with a pocket square.

Navy tuxedo worn with classic black bow tie and clean front formal white shirt and silver studs.

Casual look for a holiday get-together.  Custom Gingham shirt over a cashmere v-neck with our custom Tech Field jacket.

Layering looks great!  Custom henley underneath a custom casual shirt topped with our custom Reversible Vest.

Casual holiday shirting – looks great with sweaters, denim, vests…

Grey velvet double breasted blazer styled with a peak lapel worn with a custom classic plaid button down.

A less formal tuxedo look:  Classic black tuxedo paired with a custom stretch navy cotton shirt and bow tie.

Winter white tuxedo jacket worn with a white button down.

Hope you are you inspired to step your style up for the holidays?!

I want to help you PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD.  If you live in Westchester County, NY, Fairfield County, CT or New York City I can assist you with my concierge-style personal shopping service.  In addition to pulling from stores if desired, I carry the largest custom, lifestyle menswear brand, JHilburn.  We offer everything from t-shirts to tuxedoes with the finest Italian fabrics and superb quality all at a great value.  Will visit you at home, office or NYC showroom and you can avoid the hassle of shopping in a store.

Wives and significant others – give your guy a gift card to get him started.

Thanks for stopping by and enjoy and healthy and happy holiday season!!   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