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

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

New Year’s Resolution – Wardrobe Consultation

Happy New Year!!!  It’s that wonderful time of year when we get a fresh start!  We may also feel the pressure to come up with a New Year’s Resolution.  Are any of these on your list?  Lose weight,  get back to the gym,  cut out white sugar, cut back on coffee, reserve alcohol for weekends…  Sound familiar?  Focusing on positive and healthy change is great, and I admit, a few of these repeat goals are back on my list again for 2018….

In 2010, I achieved my New Year’s goal and long time goal of starting my own business!  The main reason I started a personal styling and personal shopping business was not because I enjoy shopping and love fashion, but because it was a way I felt I could truly help people feel better about themselves.  It is empowering stepping out of your home in clothing that flatters and you feel great in.  And, having a closet filled with clothing you love and that works is stress relieving and time saving.

Is your New Year’s Goal the same as in the past?  Or, might you consider a resolution focusing on something stress reducing and empowering?  Are you happy with your wardrobe?  Are you confident with your style?  Do you love what you wear?  Are you dressing to enhance your figure?  Do you feel great with how you look?  If you are not confidently answering yes to at least a few of these questions, you may want to consider treating yourself to a Wardrobe Consultation.  During a Wardrobe Consultation you take the time necessary to audit what you have and edit out what is not working.  As well as, put together new outfits with the good items you own and make note of what is missing.  It is remarkable how much better you feel when you enter your closet knowing that you love what is in it and that you have outfits to wear!

Editing your Closet takes time and energy – but is so worth it!!   Here are few suggestions and tips to get started:

Jeans –  If they don’t make you feel GREAT, get rid of them.  You should absolutely have a pair of great fitting, very dark wash denim.  The style depends on your shape.

T-shirtsGet rid of all stretched out, stained and pilled t-shirts.  A great fitting white and black tee are essential.  Style is a preference, however, replace every year if washed frequently; the black fades and the white yellows.

ShoesDon’t keep shoes you aren’t wearing because they are uncomfortable.  Keep shoes you like in good condition – make any repairs at the end of season.  If you don’t have a classic and sexy black pump…get a pair!  Try many on to get a comfortable pair and be willing to pay more for a quality pair.  A classic cut will always be in style and if you take care of them, they will last forever.  They go with everything and make you look and feel great!

 

The fresh start of a New Year is the ideal time to re-focus on you.  If you would like more information about assistance with a wardrobe consulation,  please e-mail me at cynhud@optonline.net.

Best wishes for a HAPPY NEW YEAR!  I sincerely hope it is filled with happiness, good health and, of course, an even more confident you!!

Thanks for stopping by….Cynthia

 

 

Holiday Looks

Recently, while wandering through my local mall, The Westchester in White Plains, NY, I found Marc Cain; an upscale women’s clothing store.  Color and styling caught my eye and I was swayed to enter. Founded in Germany in 1973, the line represents “German engineering with European styling”.  They do a wonderful job of combining their aesthetic and art with a laid-back attitude, a natural, but elegant look combined with innovation and exclusivity.  The Marc Cain woman “lives in the moment, is self confident, open-minded and curious. She loves being a woman and expresses herself by what she is wearing- naturally and as a matter of course.”

Personally, I find the line to be a beautiful combination of classic and chic.  The cuts are very flattering, the fabrics very special, the clothes wearable and comfortable and they have unique statement pieces that are covetable.  It’s one of those stores where I want everything!!

Recently, I was invited by the staff to check out the new collection.  With prosecco in hand (a very nice touch), I was inspired for the holiday.  I asked if I could put some holiday looks together and do a blog post – they kindly obliged!

The following are holiday looks I love suitable for various occasions…

Stylish Holiday

I love leather leggings and a beautiful blazer!

Princess Dairy Leopard Blazer in Techo Velour

Essentials Second Skin 3/4 Sleeve Top in Black

Essentials Leather Legging in Black

Ankle Strap Sandal in Blckk

Suede Ankle Boot in Black

Menswear Inspired Holiday

I love pant suits and this tuxedo style is stunning and versatile!

Dancing Stars Tuxedo Jacket with Satin Collar and Ribbon Closure in Black

Dogs & Other Countries Tear Drop Sequin Tank Top in Grey with Ribbon Detail

Dancing Stars Tuxedo Pant with Satin side detail in Black

Remove the jacket and glitter the night way in this stunning top- New Year’s option!!

This tank is stunning and has beautiful details including grosgrain ribbon straps.

Another option for the tuxedo pant – a super feminine lace top.

Dogs & Other Countries Short Sleeve Black Lace top with Peplum

Chic Holiday

Perfect for a holiday lunch.

Dogs & Other Countries Lace Top Short Sleeve in Red/Orange

Suede Ankle Strap Sandal in Taupe

I love a statement piece and this phenomenal faux fur jacket is WOW!!  Another day wear it with jeans and a turtleneck.

Dogs & Other Countries Grey Plaid Wool Trouser with Pink Ribbon Belt

Dogs & Other Countries Lace Top Short Sleeve in Red/Orange

Dogs & Other Countries Rainbow of Colors Faux Fur Jacket with Removable Collar

Suede Ankle Strap Sandal in Taupe

Boho Holiday

For the casual holiday brunch

Prints & Princesses Boho Chic Floral Dress

Knee-Hi Chestnut Brown Faux Suede Boots

Prints & Princesses White Faux Lamb Jacket

 

Elegant Holiday

This dress exudes class and elegance – it’s more than just a LBD.

Dancing Stars Lace Dress Sequinned Stars detail

Suede Ankle Strap Sandal in Black

 

While these are looks intended for the holidays, the pieces can go the distance:

All of the tops pair beautifully with jeans for a dressier casual look.

The statement jackets go with everything.

The tuxedo jacket and trouser can be worn as a separates.

The leopard blazer goes with jeans, a pencil skirt, etc.

 

If you are interested in seeing more of the collection, the website is Marc-Cain.com.

Find your way to Marc Cain and enjoy the experience.

Marc Cain

Westchester Mall, 125 Westchester Ave., White Plains NY, 10601

914-460-5051

mc.store.newyork.westchester@marc-cain.com

www.marc-cain.com

Best wishes for a happy, healthy and stylish holiday!   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

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

Sweaters – Cozy, Comfy, Chic

After thankful, the 3 “C”s – Cozy, Comfortable and Chic are what I am thinking about for Thanksgiving.  Tunic style sweaters fit my 3 “C”s, and what is even nicer, no matter the type of gathering you are attending, these sweaters can work!  If you’re going to a casual get together wear with either leggings or jeans.  If it is a bit more dressed up wear with a slack, cropped pant or a skirt, tights and boots. Additionally, if you prefer covered arms, just wear a long-sleeved t-shirt under the short sleeved and sleeveless pieces.  Added bonus and 4th “C” – they Camouflage an expanding waistline!!

Link below the photo.
Splendid Turtleneck Poncho

Splendid Turtleneck Poncho

 

Vince Sleeveless Ribbed Wool Turtleneck

Vince Sleeveless Ribbed Wool Turtleneck

Vince Camuto Ribbed Turtleneck Sweater

Vince Camuto Ribbed Turtleneck Sweater

Vince Short Sleeve Turtleneck Sweater

Vince Short Sleeve Turtleneck Sweater

Nordstrom Strip Cashmere Poncho

IN Cashmere Stripe Cashmere Poncho

Nordstrom Cashmere Sweater

Nordstrom Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater

 

Joie 'Loysse' Wool & Cashmere Cowl Neck Sweater

Joie ‘Loysse’ Wool & Cashmere Cowl Neck Sweater

Wishing you and yours a happy, relaxing, peaceful, cozy, comfy and chic Thanksgiving!

Thanks for stopping by…Cynthia