NYC Street Style: The Evolution of the Combat Boot

The combat boot. We've seen it in and out of style since Marc Jacobs' iconic grunge collection from the 90s. Over the last year or so, I've noticed that it's quickly making its way back into fashion. They started out so basic - black, brown, grey. But more recently, designers are taking them a step further with more details and embellishment. Check it out.

I wore my combat boots to explore Central Park last year. Basic black faux leather - so easy to throw on and match to virtually anything. The brown ones belong to my roommate, this picture is from about 6 months ago. Pair em with some tights, a mini and some denim, and you're good to go!

These are some combat boots I've seen over the last few days. Designers are getting more and more creative with ways to dress up these boots or make them stand out - from studs to mixing fabrics. My roommate recently started a blog and made a post about boots, and it inspired a friend to go ahead and get this brown studded pair. My friend Melissa also just got hers, with a blanket-esque lining to show off when you fold the top over.

Steve Madden is my favorite shoe designer. I fall in love with everything he does. Here are some really great choices from him right now: The Tropador, with going halfway up the leg and decked out with studs if you like some edge; the Ladiluck, which also come in black, but I thought this was a great new color I haven't seen too much of; and the Taco, which I think give off a more laid back, comfy look.

*All images were taken by either me or my roommate, with the exception of the Steve Madden boots, which came from his website.

Sweater Savvy

Fall is almost upon us! Get ready to pull out those boots, jackets, and scarves from the trenches of your closet. Know what else is almost upon us? NEXT FALL. Or that's what designers and retailers at least will be thinking about in the next few months, if they're not already. Being a fashion student with access to trend forecasting sites, I've determined one, among many, key items for Fall/Winter 2013: The Oversized Sweater.

Everyone loves the oversized pullover. They are comfy, easy to throw on over leggings or jeans, and look so effortlessly chic. Most of us already have a few of these in our wardrobes that will get the job done, but be sure to keep an eye out for more next year with new colors, patterns, and fabrics.

These two are from Alexander Wang's Cruise/Resort 2013 Collection, but can easily transition into a staple piece for fall.

Celebrity inspiration is always something to look to when deciding how to wear a garment. Here Rachel Zoe pairs her oversized sweater with a trouser while Selena Gomez wears hers with leggings and ballet flats. Both looks are acceptable for something as casual as a day out shopping or a dinner with friends.

So next fall when you're deciding what you need to add to your wardrobe or what you can wear from your existing one, remember the sweaters!

*All images courtesty of Style Sight.

Fabulous Fashion Blogs

Like that alliteration? There's a lot more where that came from :) Here's a few of my favorite fashion blogs, they're definitely worth a look!


Number One: Whatever Eva Wants

Eva Chen is an editor for Teen Vogue, and this is her personal blog. For photos and thoughts on the latest trends, upcoming collections, and health and beauty tips, this is the place to go.

Number Two: Lauren Conrad

Everyone's favorite ex-reality star: Lauren Conrad. Her website has a ton of different sections: fashion, health/beauty, food, etc. But the fashion (or "wear") section is prime: she picks an occasion or event, like an interview, first date, or girls' night, and gives a few different outfit recommendations. Love it!

Number Three: The Fashion Student

And last but not least, The Fashion Student. Surprise: she actually goes to FIT! And her blog is awesome. She does sort of fashion stories: she'll put together an outfit or go to an event, post a ton of pictures, and give them captions or narrate what's going on.