Variations On A Theme By D & G

Periodically, I get obsessed with the aesthetic of a certain brand. It gets burned in my brain and I can’t stop thinking about it. Right now, it’s Dolce and Gabbana (because I can’t resist a good movie reference, I feel it necessary to add: “Okay. Can you please spell Gabbana?” :)). It probably has something to do with the time of year – after the high of the holidays, I have to face up to the dreary reality of winter and I instinctively gravitate toward a fashion philosophy that helps me through. Some years, it’s comfort: autumnal palettes and boots everywhere. This year, it’s bright shades and an insouciant mix of patterns that seems to speak of spring and renewal just ahead.  Dolce and Gabbana incorporates saturated colors constantly via their references to quintessential Italian themes. Dressing head to toe in D & G just feels ecstatic and sun-drenched. Of course, I generally only do that in fitting rooms because spending three grand on one outfit isn’t in my budget at this precise moment in time :). So, how do you get that Dolce vibe sans Dolce? When browsing through their recent collections, certain elements stand out, in addition to the color, as common: lace, jewels, flowers, prints – all pretty accessible items. Would you think to combine them? I generally wouldn’t, until this latest obsession began. Now, it’s a must try kind of thing! What do you have in your closet right now? A lace pencil skirt? Fab. A floral blouse? Perfection. Start there. I went with a lace blouse. Add other pieces that fit the theme: a printed or embroidered blouse to the lace skirt, clean, bright blue denim to the floral blouse. Add statement crystal jewelry to get that shot of glamour – but keep it lighthearted by using contrasting colors. Add bright blue or yellow to red and navy, blush to eggplant, amethyst and lilac to deep green. Since my lace blouse is sheer, I layered a mustard cami below and topped it with two crystal necklaces, one golden and blush, one plum and lilac. Don’t be afraid to layer more delicate pieces to get a stronger effect. Throw in some floral jewelry if you have it, or add a floral scarf or belt at your waist in tones that coordinate with your jewels and shoes. Ah – shoes! :) I always love getting to the shoes. Complete with the look with more color –coordinating, but not matching. Add cobalt to red, navy and cerulean or cerise to pine and plum, golden yellow or burgundy to blush and eggplant. I went with purple suede pumps – the luxurious feel of suede (or velvet works too!) just underscores the abundant vibe of this aesthetic. Consider lace or floral heels and crystal-embellished pumps as well (satin def allowed!). Don’t forget about mary-janes either – they became a D & G trademark a couple seasons ago, so a neutral version is another flawless way to complete this styling. I hope this inspires you to try out a Dolce & Gabbana-inspired look sometime soon! Happy styling,loves :)