I was near the Meatpacking District meeting some friends for a lazy Sunday carb-loading Italian dinner (check out the tiramisu above) while checking out everyone’s drizzle style and taking creeper shots. The rain stayed at a consistent drizzle/fuzzy sprinkle all day so people were dressed across the board. I caught some overly prepared tourists walking around in their candy colored PVC ponchos who looked like they were ready for a monsoon, and locals who were mostly dressed in light hooded jackets, hats or completely unprepared as if it was just another sunny day. I met a group of friends all with their individual styles to combat the elements.

Alice came prepared with her anorak and umbrella and a bright smile despite the gloomy weather.  I love the leather satchel and loafers to match. Notice the Christmas themed nails? (Never too early – or late – to get in the spirit!) Try the Haute Hippie Military Anorak paired with some leather accessories for this look.

Penney was the perfect balance of sweet and edgy. Juxtaposing her lace shirt layered under a sleek leather moto jacket paired with Audrey Hepburn-esque studded flats. Try the TEXTILE Elizabeth and James Sargeant Jacket for a sweet edgy piece to layer over your lace with a pair of Yosi Samra ballet flats.

Now, I’m not a fan of rain boots – only type of boot that I proudly don’t own in my 100-some shoe collection – so I strongly commend Vera here. One of the few times I have seen someone wearing rain boots and make them look so effortlessly cool – not to mention they’re a unique pair of boots on their own. Paired with a black leather jacket and oversized casual top – perfection! Try the VEDA Max summer leather jacket to get this cool look.

My personal style tips for a rainy day include:

1. A hooded jacket (no umbrella for me)
2. Pleather moto boots (in place of rain boots)
3. Hairspray (to give me a false sense of control over my frizzy hair)
4. All black (so when I get soaked nothing gets dirty or becomes translucent)

Wishing you all many dry stylish days to come!

Yours truly,

Afaf

I love bows, tutus, tulle, heels, flowy silhouettes and everything else that sounds super girly. The only problem? I hate dresses. Well, let’s clarify: I hate wearing dresses but I love the idea of them. I’m the type of girl who literally wears jeans and a tee every day. It’s just comfortable and easy, which dresses, to me, are not. However, when I first saw the Torn by Ronny Kobo dresses that came in yesterday I instantly fell in love.

Every single one of the new Torn by Ronny Kobo dresses peaked my interest. The patterns, silhouettes and colors are all perfect for the spring and summer. Each dress can easily be worn to multiple occasions and they won’t break the bank, which is obviously a plus.

If I could wear the Solange Dress every day, I would not object. The multicolor zigzag stripes add a playful touch to the simple silhouette. Also, anything with a peplum automatically gets a 100 points in my book! Peplum dresses and skirts have such a flattering and slimming look that any girl can pull it off, no matter what your body type is.

A really popular color for this spring is mint. I see it almost everywhere I go and in every form like jewelry, bags, shoes, etc. The Kat Dress is a one-shoulder dress with a body-hugging silhouette. Raised stripes add texture while the one-shoulder lends an asymmetrical and dressed up touch. The mint color of this dress is sweet and refreshing, and will definitely look great with the glowing skin we get from sitting outside on our lunch breaks!

To make any dress complete, obviously you need great shoes! In my opinion, shoes can either make or break an outfit. These neutral Tibi heels and shiny, silver Monika Chiang heels are must-have shoes for your wardrobe. Bonus: if you need a mirror to check your makeup you can just look at your reflection in your heels…just kidding!

For something a little more fun go with the vibrant Tibi heels. You would be surprised how many ways you can wear cobalt blue heels! It’s a nice pop of color for any outfit. Plus, the leather is snake-embossed so you can show off your wild side.

Which Torn by Ronny Kobo dress is your favorite?

Are you a talented, up-and-coming fashion designer? Do you have a line of women’s clothing, accessories, shoes or jewelry? Would you be interested in selling your unique designs at SINGER22? Do you want your fashion line to gain global exposure? If you answered yes to the questions above, we highly encourage you to participate in our first ever New Designer Day. More importantly, what is New Designer Day? More info after the jump!

Let’s start by saying SINGER22 has a well-known and respected reputation for projecting a brand’s future success. Being the first online platform to sell multiple brands like Current/Elliott, J Brand, RUNWAYDREAMZ and Blu Moon that have later gained widespread popularity and achievements in the fashion industry. We hope to continue to act as a vehicle for the growth of prospective designers and that’s where you come in!

We are currently looking for designers who are ready, willing and able to work us! This will be the ultimate place to gain exposure on the global stage. All we need from you is to complete the information on our Registration Form. If available, please upload a look book or product shots and a price sheet.

Our first live Designer Day will be held in New York City on Wednesday, June 19th 2013 with a panel of judges including SINGER22′s CEO and Founder Jon Singer. Reminder: this event is by invitation only. Submissions for New Designer Day will be accepted until Sunday, June 9th at 5pm EST. Event invitations will be sent to prospective designers on Tuesday, June 11th 2013.

For more information regarding New Designer Day, please email: newdesigners@SINGER22.com

I took a trip back to the South for Mother’s Day weekend to surprise my mom. She’s impossible to shop for, so being the narcissist I am, I thought I was the best present to show up on her doorstep. No one knew I was visiting, so when I showed up with a bouquet of flowers (above) and walked through the front door at dinnertime everyone was thrilled. I was relieved that she was so happy to see me because I figured I would either be welcomed with excitement or scolded for being so good at lying for a month about the planned trip and sneaking down the East Coast.

My trip was brief and of course it was in no time that the NYC’s magnetic pull had me back on a plane Sunday night. Everyone was on their way back home after visiting Mom for the weekend, so what better time to snap creeper pics than when everyone is experiencing separation anxiety. I decided to go for candid shots this week as not to disturb people on their journey home – that and I felt like playing super spy while waiting to board my plane.

It’s always a challenge to look cute and effortless on a flight. You don’t want to overdo it and look like you’re trying too hard, but you don’t want to look like you just rolled out of bed (or maybe you do, it’s your prerogative). The key is not to wear anything that wrinkles easily or anything that needs constant adjusting or concentration to wear, like sky high heels. Otherwise you’ll just look like a noob when all your polished clothes end up creased and you’re stumbling down the ramp like Courtney Love after a night of partying when you’re trying to regain the feeling back in your butt and legs after sitting for so long. On the flip side, its best not to wear baggy clothes head to toe or you’ll look like the infamous potato sack. Take a tip from these fashionistas courtesy of my super sky skills:

This girl knows its all about the accessories: bright graphic tote, Cartier bangle, monogrammed necklace and Ray-Bans. Get a pair of Ray-Bans for yourself with a Jet by John Eshaya tote.

These ladies are two prime examples of the oversized sweater and legging travel uniform down. Knits are a travelers best friend. That, and a top knot. Take it to the next step and get a pair of printed Pencey leggings.

A duster or oversized cardigan are great ways to add color and pattern without looking like you’re trying too hard. The Chelsea Flower Ruched Sleeve Blazer in White Snake it just as cool and easy.

Cheers to a life of travel, a Happy Mother’s Day and hopefully no lawsuits!

Yours truly,

Afaf

1. Pretty in Pink

This spring, ladies everywhere will be looking pretty in pink whether it’s pale or an electric pink. A soft pink blush or a swipe of hot pink eyeliner makes the trend solid. And if you’re looking to take the trend to the next level, opt for a shade of neon pink lipstick or gloss, like the one you see on Fashion Police co-host Kelly Osbourne and Rihanna. Just make sure to try it out at home first. I would advise experimenting with colors at home before you leave the house just to ensure you’re comfortable.

2. Bronze Goddess

You might not be a bronze and tan princess until summer is in full swing, but that doesn’t matter. You can look bronze by rocking the glow, even dewy skin that’s sure to be popular with women of all skin tones this season. Get the look by applying a lightweight tinted moisturizer or BB cream all over then adding a bit of highlighter to cheeks. My favorite one is from Mac that comes in a small glass jar with a black top. It should be applied to brow bones and down the nose. Top it all off with a bit of bronzer for a look that the stars rock on the red carpet.

3. Distinguished Brows

For those ladies who have their eyebrow waxers on speed dial, this trend might seem a little alarming. But dark and defined eyebrows — like those on actress Lily Collins can really make a stunning statement. There is no need to thin the brows or tint them. Dark is back! To pull off the look use a matching brow pencil to lightly fill in gaps and enhance your natural shape by following the man made lines.

4. Lock Your Lips

Kiss that glossy smile goodbye! The lip look to love is matte lipstick in any shade, especially crispy beige or  pinks. To ace the look, prep lips before applying color by exfoliating and moisturizing for a smooth surface. I love to use anything by the cosmetic company Fresh.

Our favorite beauty blogger, Teni of MissMaven, is at it again with her latest makeup tutorial. All the girls here at SINGER22 love watching her videos every Thursday because the makeup looks Teni create are stunning! We watch her videos over and over trying to figure out how she applies beautiful makeup with such ease…and also because we have a slight girl crush.

This week Teni created a natural, everyday look using products found at local drugstores. Let’s face it: we spend tons of money on our makeup. The best part about Teni’s video is that all the products used (except one) is less than ten dollars! All the products used above added up to almost the cost of one higher-end product.

There are tons of little treasures at drugstores but sometimes it’s just hard to know what to buy/what will work well. All the products used in this week’s tutorial look flawless on Teni’s skin and the finished look is really versatile and fresh.

For a full list of products used, click here!

Band: Capital Cities

Genre: Electronic-infused indie rock

Origin: Los Angeles, California

To check out Capital Cities upcoming tour dates, click here!

Obviously since it’s Mother’s Day you will receive gifts from your children saying how much they love you and that you are the best mom in the whole world. And while you may cherish and look forward to opening these precious gifts that may possibly get stowed away somewhere, eaten (you can’t resist those chocolates) or die (I’m talking about flowers!), you should treat yourself. Yes, that’s right. We want you to buy yourself something this Mother’s Day!

There’s no shame in buying a present for yourself! There’s definitely no denying you should get a chic treat for all that potty training, laundry, carpools, cooked meals, prepared lunches, goodnight kisses and everything else you do in your daily routine.

We rounded up some of our must-have items that we know will make you very happy. Need new sunglasses for the spring and summer? Want leather pants but don’t have the excuse to actually buy them? Um, it’s Mother’s Day, duh. Click here to shop everything pictured above and remember to treat yourself! Happy shopping.

I was expecting to see studs, leather, black and everything else considered punk. There was definitely all of those aspects and some celebrities seemed to nail the theme a bit better than others. On that note, here are my top ten picks for best Met Gala looks!

1. Rooney Mara was my absolute favorite of the night. I mean let’s get real, she did have a tiny head start playing the dark character of Lisbeth Salander in Girl With The Dragon Tattoo. Rooney looked radiant in a white, semi sheer Givenchy dress with its plunging neckline. I love how she went with a dark plum lip and pulled back hairstyle. Kudos, girl!

2. Blake Lively in Gucci. Enough said. Is there a time when she doesn’t look beautiful? I love her choice of gown, hair and makeup. Everything ties together so nicely and isn’t too drastic that she takes away from her wonderful persona.

3. Miranda Kerr wore Michael Kors and knocked it out of the park. I have a serious girl crush on Miranda so I might be a tad bias. She looks stunning in this MK gown! I love the fact it’s a simple silhouette with cut outs on the bodice that show offs Victoria’s Secret figure. Plus, Miranda looks genuinely happy to be there and shows off her true smile, which is refreshing to see.

4. Jessica Alba posed in a Tory Burch lace gown with cut outs on the neck and stomach. I loved how she was covered up, yet still manged to look sexy with the hints of skin from those cut outs.

5. Victoria’s Secret angel Rosie Huntington-Whiteley was statuesque in Gucci on last night’s red carpet. Her makeup is fabulous and serves as a nice complement to the deep green of her dress. The semi sheer mesh bodice definitely fills the vibes for the punk theme!

6. Amber Heard in a sequin and lace gown by Emilio Pucci. Normally, I’m not the biggest fan of red dresses on the red carpet because it blends in for obvious reasons. However, Amber was most definitely not lost in the crowd at last night’s Met Gala. Even though her dress is pretty busy, I like how she kept her hair side swept with soft waves.

7. I have another girl crush on Emmy Rossum. She wore a white Donna Karen gown with  makeup that reminded me of Black Swan (in a good way!) She uploaded a picture to Instagram of a profile view of her hair and it was insane! It was braided, messy and completely amazing.

8. British model Cara Delevingne wore a studded Burberry dress with a plunging V-neckline. Smokey eyes and a nude lip was the perfect choice for this hardcore dress.

9. Emma Watson looked beautiful in a Prabal Gurung dress featuring asymmetrical cut outs on the bodice and a long skirt. I’m a huge fan of her makeup and minimal accessories (note the one long earring.) Emma always looks put together and stylish!

10. Nicole Richie opted for a sequin dress from Topshop. An interesting choice for the Met Gala but I think she looked great. Although I understand why her hair is grey, I think she could have went without it. I’m obsessed with her studded, ear cuff and dark lip that adds the punk edge to this sleek dress.

Who was your favorite at the 2013 Met Gala?

If I were an animal I’d want to be a panther or any exotic big cat. I say panther because even in animal form I like to be dressed in black from head to toe. Panthers are strong, graceful and mysterious. They’re basically the animal version of what the ideal Bond girl is. And a Bond girl is the epitome of sexy, powerful, and feminine. FYI the panther is not an actual separate species of cat. A panther just refers to a large cat species that has excessive black pigment so you cant actually see their spots without close observation. There’s your daily dose of Zoboomafoo fun facts for those of you who still remember that show.

In the spirit of the of the persistent – and one of my favorite – trends I went to SoHo to see what animals the street stylers would be themselves.

I met Philippine (left) and Eveline (right) who were visiting from Holland.

Philippine said she’d want to to be a Leopard because they are rare, sneaky and fast. Try a Lovely Bird Lazy Fedora – perfect to go on a shopping safari on the sunny streets of SoHo.

Eveline said she likes zebras because of their bold colors. You can see she loves bold patterns and colors. Try a Monrow military trench over some cut off shorts and wedge kicks for a cool camo look like this.

Lizzie from Wilmington, NC said she’d be a panther because they’re “fierce and sexual.” Well said.  Try a Joie Python Print statement tank under a blazer for a laid back polished look like Lizzie’s.

Most women say they want to be a powerful feline, for good reason. You can tell a lot about the type of person someone is based on the type of animal they’d chose to be. I suggest it as an ice breaker question at the next get-together you attend.

Yours truly,

Afaf