Horse Girl Fashion: Equestrian Chic vs. Western Horse Girl

In a world where niche aesthetics rule TikTok and fashion trends move faster than a galloping thoroughbred, horse girl fashion has claimed its place in the spotlight. But here’s the twist: not all horse girls are created equal. While they may share a love for long rides and longer boots, there’s a distinct style divide emerging—Equestrian Chic vs. Western Horse Girl. Saddle up, because we’re riding through both styles to see what sets them apart (and how to wear them like a pro).

Want a stylist’s help incorporating the latest styles into your wardrobe? Get your closet trend-right for Spring 2025 with Los Angeles Personal Stylist Meg Gallagher‘s styling services.

🐎 Equestrian Chic: Tailored, Polished, Classic

The equestrian horse girl is elegance on horseback. Think manicured pastures, hunter-jumper competitions, and British countryside estates. Her fashion is refined, preppy, and built around timeless pieces that wouldn’t be out of place at a polo match or in a Ralph Lauren ad campaign. It’s sophisticated and clean, with a “just stepped out of the stable for afternoon tea” kind of charm. It’s less cowgirl, more country club.

Signature Pieces:

– Fitted blazers in tweed, houndstooth, or navy
– Crisp white button-downs with high collars
– Structured riding boots (polished, of course)
– Breeches or tailored trousers
– Leather gloves and saddlebag-style purses
– Minimalist gold or horsebit accessories

🏜️ Western Horse Girl: Free-Spirited, Rustic, Romantic

On the other side of the trend is the Western horse girl—a wild-at-heart wanderer with dirt under her boots and sunshine in her hair. Her look draws from vintage western wear, desert tones, and bohemian textures. This style is less about polish and more about personality – perfect for what to wear to a country music festival. It’s effortlessly cool, with a casual bend.

Signature Pieces:

-Fringed jackets and worn-in denim
-Cowboy hats and concho belts
-Flowing prairie skirts and embroidered blouses
-Vintage cowboy boots
-Turquoise jewelry and bolo ties
-Textural mix-ins like suede and leather

How to Choose Your Style (or Mix Them Up)

You don’t have to pick sides – this isn’t a rodeo showdown. In fact, some of the most stylish looks combine elements of both. Want to try a blazer over a prairie dress? Do it. Pair cowboy boots with equestrian-inspired pants? Iconic. It’s all about the attitude: confident, grounded, and a little bit wild.

Trending Now: Horse Girl Hybrid Style

The Equestrian and the Western Boho are just two reins of the same stylish stallion—so why not ride both? Fashion influencers are blurring the line between these two aesthetics more than ever:

• Equestrian base with boho flair: Tailored pants + fringe jacket + silk scarf.
• Western vibe with equestrian polish: Prairie dress + structured belt + tall riding boots.
• Horse-Girl accessories: Saddle bags, horsebit jewelry, vintage horse tees, and cow print footwear.

Contact Women’s Personal Stylist Meg Gallagher to get your closet trend-right for Spring 2025:

Shop The Horse Girl Edit

Whether you’re looking for what to wear to a country concert or you’re just trying to spruce up your Spring/Summer style, shop these key pieces to hone in on the horse girl aesthetic.

The post The Two Faces of Horse Girl Aesthetic: Equestrian Chic and Western Horse Girl Style appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

If you’re looking for a FLAWLESS date night or girls night out outfit idea, read all about our favorite foolproof method for creating iconic, flattering night out outfits that will make you feel like the main character of your favorite show! Master the Sexy-Chic Outfit Formula and shop our curated Date Night Edit below.

Want more outfit ideas for Spring 2025? Check out Los Angeles Personal Stylist Meg Gallagher‘s wardrobe styling services here:

Mastering The Sexy-Chic Date Night Outfit Formula

Whether you’re headed out on the town with your favorite girls or going on a hot date, you’re going to want to copy this flawless night out look:

The Sexy-Chic Outfit Formula:

1. The Top Element: A lightweight, oversized fashion trench coat or blazer.
   This is the piece that will help command the eye where to look. Choose a cinched or belted piece if you want waist definition.
   
2. The Middle Element: A sleek, relatively slim midi or mini dress, two piece co-ords or slim top and mini or midi skirt.
   This is the element that shows some skin. Since your top layer will cover a large portion of your silhouette, you’ll want to make sure that the middle element of your outfit commands the eye where you want it to.
   Examples:
   For a leg-lengthening illusion: Wear a slit or asymmetric skirt.
   For highlighting your neck, décolletage or chest: Wear an asymmetric, plunge, cutout or scarf top.
   For a slimming effect: Try ruched pieces.
   
3. The Bottom Element: A statement going-out shoe.
   Popular picks for 2025: over the knee boots, sheer heels, wrap-up heeled sandals and slouch boots.

Three essential elements make this outfit formula a perfect go-to:

1. It’s sexy-chic. This look shows just enough skin to feel alluring, while oversized and belted layers gracefully cover and de-emphasize common challenge areas (arm and butt coverage, thigh and waist slimming, waist-slimming cinching).

2. It’s body flattering. Pairing oversized pieces with body-slimming ruching, slits and asymmetrics command the eye to look towards everything you want it to.

3. You’ll feel COMFORTABLE! When an outfit draws attention to all the right places, it’s easy to feel confident and comfortable all night long.

Wand to work with Wardrobe Stylist Meg Gallagher?

The Date Night Outfit Formula, As Seen in Our Favorite TV Shows

Pop Culture fashion icons Samantha Jones from Sex and the City (Played by Kim Cattrall), and Sylvie Grateau from Emily in Paris (Played by Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu) both sport the formula in their respective television shows.

Going Out Layers

Shop lightweight going out coats and blazers that bring that “unforgettable” element to your date night looks.

Skirts and Dresses – Ruching, Asymmetrics, Leather and Slits

Shop slinky, sexy skirts and dresses that flatter the body, giving just enough movement and texture to sit perfectly underneath a statement coat or blazer and standout shoes.

Going Out Shoes

Check out our favorite strappy, sheer, and slouchy going out shoes that feel on-trend for Spring.

The post Sexy Chic Outfit Ideas for Dates and Girls Night Out appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

Cute Casual Outfit Ideas for Valentines Day

With Valentines Day being on a week day this year, we’re showing off our favorite casual cute outfit ideas you can wear to your coffee dates, lunch in the park, day at work, trip to the movies, boardgame night or Galentines hangout! If you’ve ever wondered what to wear on a comfy night out with your jeans, Ugg boots, loungewear and more, you’ve come to the right place.

Want a curated wardrobe of outfits for every occasion? Check out Los Angeles Personal Stylist Meg Gallagher‘s styling services here.

The Thematic Sweater: Pink, Red or Hearts

Keep it cozy and cute this valentines day with a pink, red or heart-printed sweater or cardigan. This idea is especially popular with trending platform Ugg Boots and wide leg sweatpants or jeans! You can also pair the look with a mini or midi skirt and casual sneaker, boots or mary-janes.

Shop Thematic Sweater Casual Valentines Day Outfits::

Casual Going Out Tops

Balance sweet and sultry with tops that are flattering, fun and easy to bend between dressed up and casual! Pair these tops with trousers, jeans or a midi-skirt and loafers or mary-janes for an easy day date look.

Shop Casual Going Out Tops:

A Pop of Pink or Red

There’s nothing like a pop of thematic color to take your outfit into the Valentines spirit! Just like the already trending “Pop of Red” this winter, we’ll be seeing the same popularity extended to pink in honor of the holiday.
Simple additions like replacing your shoe-laces with pink ribbons, wearing red stockings, bows, scarves, shoes or bags are all easy ways to turn an everyday outfit into an emblem of romance!

Shop pops of pink and red:

The Casual Dress

If you’re going from desk to dinner, or you just like an excuse to wear dresses – try a casual day dress with loafers, Mary Janes or sneakers. If it’s chilly out, top the look with a cozy sweater, cardigan or overcoat!

Shop casual dresses:

Leaning into Balletcore: Tulle, Lace and Ribbons

The balletcore trend and coquette aesthetic are still going strong (thanks, TikTok!) with romantic Bridgerton-like lace details, tulle skirts, bows, ruffles, ballet flats, knee socks and delicate soft pinks, pearl and white. Weaving this aesthetic into your casual outfit is an approachable yet thematic way to lean into the sweet side of Valentines day! Want more ideas? Check out our 2024 Nail Color Trends article for ways to incorporate this trend into your nails.

Shop Balletcore:

Casual Matching Sets

We love casual matching sets for a romantic movie night at home, girls’ night in, or ultra casual dates out.

Shop Matching Sets:

The post Casual Date Outfit Ideas, Cute Outfits to wear on Valentines Day 2025 appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

It’s the New Year! With the excitement of a fresh start, we’re led to reflect on where we are now, and what we can expect for the future. And in an inevitable New Year rite-of-passage, these reflections serve as an empowering caveat to clean out closets and update our wardrobes according to the hopeful expectations we set each January. How do we achieve this magical annual closet transformation in a way that will successfully serve every aspect of our lives in 2025?

Why you need a closet edit: An organized, edited down closet is SO much easier to work with. When you can see what clothing you have in front of you, putting together an outfit suddenly becomes manageable. No more over-shopping for items you already have, no more forgetting where pieces are and never wearing them. When every piece in your closet is accounted for and serves a direct purpose, you’ll experience how truly effortless getting ready for the day can be.

Start the Year Off Right With a Wardrobe That Perfectly Reflects and Supports the Life You Lead

Closet edits don’t have to be done on your own. Experience the relief of having a professional help you let the right pieces go and guide you to achieving your ideal wardrobe.
Los Angeles Personal Wardrobe Stylist Meg Gallagher will begin with a consultation to gather information about your lifestyle and needs. Then she will review your closet for a full closet purge and create a shopping list that will encompass your lifestyle and who you are going forward. Check out Meg’s styling services here, or contact Meg to curate a personalized service below.

It’s time reinvent your wardrobe for 2025!

How to get started: Give yourself a Lifestyle Breakdown. A proper closet edit starts with a healthy dose of self-reflection. Evaluating the day-to-day aspects of your life is essential for success! Ask yourself important questions, like: What’s appropriate to wear to the office if you’re pivoting from hybrid at-home work weeks to working in-office? What styles and trends do you resonate with this year? How can you incorporate them to flatter and support your features? Go through what your lifestyle looks like right NOW (Not what you wish it was), and visualize what clothes you need for every occasion. 

Understanding Your Lifestyle Breakdown

CASUAL: Where do you go on days off? What do you wear for errands, and what kind of places do you visit with friends? 

FITNESS: Do you work out? If so, think of the type of athletic wear you need for success.

WORK: What does your career look like right NOW? Do you work from home AND office? Be sure to keep well-fitting key pieces like blazers, trousers, and blouses that you can mix with easier silhouettes as needed.

TRAVEL: Is it personal or business? Think about where you go, weather-related pieces you may need, and what kind of events you may attend.

EVENING WEAR: Do you attend work parties, special events, or go on dates? Think about how formal or informal the occasions are.

The next step is to let go of the pieces that no longer fit into your defined current lifestyle. If there are key pieces that fit into your lifestyle but no longer fit your body, get rid of them and immediately replace them with correctly-sized pieces! If you’re unsure about needing any formal pieces, a safe alternative is to pair them down strategically and keep more versatile formal pieces that are easy to dress up or down with accessories.  

With Your Newly Purged Closet, Ride the Fashion Wave with Accessories

Our psyche for 2025 is all about flexibility and paired-down, mindful purchases. The easiest way to elevate and insert trends into your wardrobe this year on a smaller (more intentional scale) will be through accessories! Strategic jewelry, shoe, and bag purchases can dress up or dress down the existing pieces in your wardrobe while inserting newness through trending colors and silhouettes.

Closet Organization Will Help You Wear What You Have in Your Closet

Ever find yourself re-purchasing similar pieces because you forgot about or can’t find what’s already sitting in your closet? Closet organization is an essential method for wearing your clothes and properly assessing your wardrobe. We’ve compiled some of our favorite closet organization essentials that keep your pieces seen, wearable and in good shape.

The post Closet Edit 101, How to Improve Your Wardrobe for the New Year appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

Shorts sets and long shorts are trending for summer! If you don’t know how to style shorts, it can become a trickier wear. That’s why we’ve made this foolproof guide to make this summer staple trend work in your favor! We love shorts sets looks for dining out, traveling, afternoon events and more. Here are a few general rules to keep in mind when nailing the long shorts look for summer:

1. The length of your shorts should hit you at a smaller part of your thigh, NOT the widest part! This golden length differs from person to person, especially talls and petites. Flutter leg/Butterfly openings are a flattering option for many. If you have thin legs, consider a more tailored shorts silhouette!

2. Say no to the camel toe! Size up or opt for a higher rise if your shorts are pulling at your back or front.

3. Pay attention to the pockets. Size properly so your pockets aren’t pulling! When purchasing light colored or linen shorts, check if you can see the pocket bag through your shorts. You can always get the pocket bag removed and hole closed if you otherwise love the fit of your shorts.

4. Elongate your silhouette. It’s easy to look “cut off” with shorts silhouettes! Try wearing monochrome, sticking to non-contrast accessories and keeping your shoe silhouette open with heeled sandals or flats help to keep your ensemble lengthening and slimming from head to toe.

5. Fitted on the top, volume on the bottom. A great way to keep balance within your outfit is to wear fitted pieces on top to counteract the volume of longer shorts. Consider pieces like trending tube tops, corset tops, bodysuits and cropped vests!

Want a personalized summer wardrobe for work, vacation, going out and more? Check out Meg Gallagher‘s womens styling services here:

Why Longer Shorts for Women Are So Flattering

Long shorts ideally not only hit at the thinnest part of your leg, but they also have a voluminous opening; Creating the flattering illusion of long, slender legs!  

What are long shorts called? You may see them labelled as Bermuda shorts, long shorts, mid-thigh shorts or capris. Butterfly and a-line cuts also sometimes offer the appearance of a longer or more voluminous length.

How to Style Long Shorts in 2024: Try the Monochrome Look

Keep your shorts look polished, cohesive and ultra-flattering by color matching your tops and bottoms. This creates a slimming/lengthening effect in your outfit that allows your shorts look to be an easier wear.

Avoid breaking up your outfit with harsh contrast belts and accessories by sticking to only light, medium or dark color families within your outfit.

Long Shorts Outfits & Ideas:

The Two-Piece Set: Pair Long Shorts with a Vest

We love this ultra-modern summer two-piece set look as a fresh alternative to tank tops and t-shirts for brunch, vacation and daytime outings! Dress the look up with heeled sandals, or go casual with flats or sneakers. Even better – extend the wearability of your vest & trouser set by mixing and matching your pieces! Vests also look great with skirts and jeans, while your shorts will pair perfectly with button ups, tees and tank tops.

The Ultra-Casual Look: Long Shorts with Tees, Tanks and Button Ups

Break out your easy linen button ups, tees and tanks to pair with breezy long shorts and flat sandals, Birkenstocks or sneakers for an ultra-casual summer look.

The Polished Look: Matching Blazer and Long Shorts for Casual Workwear or Chic Travel Looks

We love this classy shorts outfit! Long shorts with a matching blazer is a great option for summer work looks in casual and creative office spaces, as well as a comfortable and chic outfit idea for days out and vacation.

A Going Out Look: Corset Tops with Long Shorts

The form-fitting snatched silhouette of a corset top pairs perfectly with the volume of long shorts for a fun and flirty going out look! Pair this look with heels or heeled sandals and a mini bag.

Top off Your Look with Summer Layering

Dress up your look with summer-friendly top layers like linen button ups, denim jackets, thin trenches or linen blazers!

The Long Shorts Stylist Edit

Why we’re highlighting Aritzia: It’s great for all ages, professions & demographics! Aritzia’s pieces have a high styling capacity, are size inclusive (Great for petites, curvy and tall), the fabrics are resilient and easy to maintain, and they’re priced appropriately for trend.
Shop our edit of favorite summer pieces for long shorts outfits below.

A note on sizing: THE EFFORTLESS™ PIECES TEND TO RUN SMALL IN THE WAIST. If you are between sizes, size up!

The post Ultimate Guide to Long Shorts: How to Style Them appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

Once you build a closet full of fabulous basic pieces that you can rely on for any outfit, it’s a good time to consider inserting trend-right pieces that will add newness, creativity and personalization into your wardrobe. It can be an overwhelming task to sift through the many passing fads and micro trends set by fashion shows, celebrities, influencers and pop culture icons. Which trends are wearable? Which pieces will flatter your body? Which trends will stay relevant long enough to warrant an actual purchase? We’ve gathered the top winter trends for 2023 for the ultimate Winter Trends Checklist. This checklist is a tell-all of pieces that are easy to pull off, flattering, and won’t fade into obscurity.

Want a stylist’s help inserting trend flawlessly into your wardrobe? Check out Los Angeles Stylist Meg Gallagher’s Styling Services here:

A Luxe Cardigan

Add a cardigan to your list as a trend-forward layer to any outfit.

The Leather Streetstyle Sneaker

The Adidas Samba Sneaker and other variations to this sleek sneaker silhouette are trending! This shoe is a great addition to your offduty, elevated-casual and street style looks.

The Scarf Coat

Trending coat silhouette the “scarf coat” brings elegance to any outfit with tasteful draping fabric.

A Shoulder Bag

You’ll want a standout shoulder bag this year for an “on the go” accessory that will add trend to every outfit.

The Flare Trouser

This trouser silhouette is perfect for the office. We love the way this cut flatters and lengthens the leg with a pair of pointed kitten heels.

Mary Jane Shoes

Great for office and off-duty, this trending shoe silhouette is both walkable and dressed up!

Hosiery

Utilize hosiery to add a layer of depth and texture into your outfit.

The Jean Shacket, or Long Denim Shirt

Can be used as a great top layer, or as part of the “Canadian Tuxedo” (denim shirt + jeans), this piece is a popular addition for any fall/winter wardrobe.

The Striped Sweater

Stripes are big this year, especially in the form of a black and white, or cream and navy striped sweater.

Silver Jewelry

Silver is in the spotlight this year! Silver chain jewelry and pendants are a trend-forward addition to your accessory wardrobe.

The Sweater Dress

Cozy up at the holiday party in the perfect dress for winter!

The Tall Boot

We’re loving the tall boot with dresses, skirts and denim!

The Lady Jacket

We love this trending jacket silhouette with denim and flats.

Baggy Denim

Baggy denim is trending! Opt for ultra-trendy low rise, or edge your way into the trend with mid or high rise baggy jeans.

Ruched Top or Corset Top

A ruched top or corset top is a figure flattering addition to your wardrobe that adds movement and texture to any outfit.

The Denim Jumpsuit

Wear the denim jumpsuit with a trenchcoat and kitten heels or booties!

Pencil Midi and Maxi Skirts

Pencil midi and maxi skirts are trending! Try this silhouette in denim, slip skirts or even as a trouser skirt.

The Fitted Tank Top (Or Bodysuit)

Wear a fitted tank or bodysuit to contrast trending oversized blazers, trousers, denim and more.

Kitten Heels

Instead of your stilettos, grab yourself a kitten heel. We love these micro-heels for their comfort, walkability and chicness!

Waist and Hip Belts

Belts are back, and they’re trending for both the hip AND the waist! Change up your silhouette with these trending belts.

Leather Everything

Leather trench coats, midi skirts, trousers, crop jackets, shackets and moto jackets are everywhere in black, brown and taupe.

For Something Red… Try “Black Cherry” Leather

The fashion shows predicted a “pop of red” to trend as a timeless wardrobe statement. For fall and winter, we’re loving deeper shades like “Black Cherry” in Fall & Winter friendly leather.

The post 2023 Winter Trends Checklist, The Top Trends You Need in Your Wardrobe appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

Update your wardrobe with the help of Los Angeles Personal Stylist Meg Gallagher! A list of Meg’s wardrobe styling services can be found here.

In The Trenches, An Emphasis on Trench Coats

Belted, unbelted and deconstructed trench coats were all over the runway! Long, sweeping trench silhouettes and classic trenches alike add a “Business Core” top layer to every outfit.

Elevated Sheer Layers

Sheer layers are getting an ethereal upgrade with delicate layers of organza, mixed fabrics with sheer, and patterned sheer.

Waist Belts and Hip Belts

Louis Vuitton and Miu Miu usher in a new era of hip belts! Waist belts are making their comeback as well to cinch jackets, sweaters and blazers.

All Tied Up

Sweaters and shirting tied around the torso, waist and shoulders, along with bows and belts tied around the waist make for flattering movement and shape for any body type.

The Blazer and Short Shorts

Tom Ford, Max Mara and Bally set the pace for a new kind of suit set – the blazer and short shorts!

Drop Waists and Bubble Skirts

Redefine the hip and reshape the waistline with drop waist silhouettes and bubble skirts! Undercover’s SP 24 paves the way for bubble skirts with an iconic glowing “aquarium skirt” on the runway.

Cherry Red Leather

The pop of red trend will mature with the new season into an elevated cherry red! We’re obsessed with the versatility of this color, and how well it pairs with neutrals!

Neck Ties and Drapes

Elegant neck ties, drapes and scarves are seen in sheer, delicate fabrics on the runway.

Knee Socks

Let your sock be the statement with ruched, pattern or sheer knee high stockings!

Dots for Days

Polka dots are in full swing on blouses, skirts, dresses and jackets!

Collegiate Details, Academia Chic

Miu Miu and Dries Van Noten put the emphasis on academia with polo layering, stripes and tones of athleisure.

Way-High Pants

Loewe and Louis Vuitton are raising the bar with way-high pants! Made wearable with proportion-playing trophy tops, or more subdued tucked in button ups and sweaters.

Era-Defining Proportions with Outer Layers

The outer layer’s proportion completely defines the outfit utilizing unique shoulders and shapes amidst quiet luxury neutrals and undistracted, subtle patterns. Tucked in blazers, bubble hems, ultrawide shoulders and rounded shoulders define the mood of the outfit.

Shop the SP 24 Edit

Shop on-the-pulse pieces that will add newness to your wardrobe and keep you ahead of the trend!

The post 13 Spring 2024 Fashion Trends You Should Know About, A Stylist’s Analysis appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

The See Through Dress Trend, and Other Sheer Pieces…

You’ve seen it at award shows, you’ve seen it on tv, you’ve spotted it in street style and on social media: Celebrities in sheer dresses! The see through dress trend is EVERYWHERE, and so are the sheer trend’s counterparts in tops, bottoms, top layers, beachwear and accessories. Can anyone pull off the look? You might be surprised, but we say yes. We’re going to dive right into all things sheer fashion by showing you how to wear a sheer dress, as well as how to incorporate sheerness into your wardrobe through key pieces that are easy to pull off for ALL body types!

Want a wardrobe full of trend right pieces suited to your style and body type? Meg Gallagher can update your wardrobe head to toe with modern pieces for every event you have planned. Shop our Sheer Trend Edit, then check out Women’s Wardrobe styling services by Meg Gallagher, Personal Stylist Los Angeles here.

Simplifying the Trend, Making it Wearable

We’re embracing this trend with all sheer and semi-sheer materials in mind, as well as including solid pieces with sheer embellishments. Expanding the trend in this way allows for women of every body type and comfort level to find pieces that flatter!

Beginners in Sheer:

Materials Matter: Opaque materials that fold and flow like organza and chiffon are great for looking delicate while creating ambiguity to your shape. Thin linen and cotton voile can also be a great intro to the see through dress trend. Going for solid tops with see-through sleeves is another easy way to bring sheer-ness into your outfit!

Pattern Vs. Solid: Patterned mesh can be a safe option for those who are self conscious about see through pieces, as it can create movement and distraction from the body.

Create an Illusion: The right sheer piece can create a flattering illusion on your figure. Try a sheer cape or jacket to flatter your arms, or utilize ruched, pleated or asymmetric sheer pieces.

Layering for Coverage: If you’re looking for a little sexiness but aren’t wanting to dive straight in, utilize layering! Pairing a solid blazer over your mesh bodysuit, or opting for a black tank top under your mesh top rather than just a bra can give the right amount of coverage to help you rock the look.

What To Wear Under A Sheer Dress, Mastering the Undergarments

The essential rule in how to style a sheer dress is mastering what to wear UNDER a sheer dress! You’ll need to wear supportive undergarments that cover, shape and smooth your silhouette. We love sculpting catsuits, bralettes, briefs, tank tops and slip dresses in basic nudes, or with delicate details like lace.

Shop Sheer Dress Undergarments

Shop See Through Top Layers

Shop Sheer Tops And Bottoms

Shop Sheer Dresses

The post The Sheer Dress Trend: How To Wear It, Inspired by Celebrities appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

Happy International Women’s Day! In support of women everywhere, we’re celebrating your style with a 101 Guide on 2023 Spring Style.
In a complete wardrobe, what can you interject to feel on the pulse of the new season? To answer this question, we’ve canvased 2023’s hottest trends from the February fashion shows to give you the 12 most relevant, easy to follow movements on cut, color, silhouettes and patterns for Spring. Take these trends into your officewear, events, causal days out and date night outfits for a modern wardrobe in 2023.

Need help inserting trend into your wardrobe for Spring? Meg Gallagher can update your wardrobe with modern pieces that will carry you through the warmer seasons. Wardrobe styling services by Meg Gallagher, Personal Stylist Los Angeles can be found here.

Big Denim Getting Bigger

Denim trends have been loose for a while, however this season highlights a very particular silhouette. For 2023, to-the-floor flood jeans reign supreme over tapered barrel and balloon silhouettes. The key to wearing flood jeans is in your shoe; A great slingback heel will keep your shoe from hiding behind the heavy shape and length of the jean, defining the trend with a sharply forward feminine look.

Oversized or Cinched? Your Pick!

Whether you prefer the ease of an oversized blazer, or the sharp silhouette of a cinched blazer – you can’t go wrong! Oversized and cinched silhouettes are trending, each allowing a strong shoulder to define the movement. 

Bold Colored Bottoms

Bold colored bottoms are a fresh way to revamp your office wardrobe or date night outfit! Colored bottoms are a great method to wearing trend colors – Since the color is away from your face, you can get away with colors that may otherwise clash with your color palette. 
Pro Tip: Opting for an oversized trouser or colored skirt makes this an easier wear if you carry weight in your hips and thighs.

It’s Giving Hibiscus! Trending Colors: Lime Green and Poppy Red 

Lime Green, Acid Green, Key Lime Pie, Chartreuse Yellow – Whatever you want to call it, this bright yellow-green is reminiscent of tropical leaves, perfect for ushering in the warmer seasons ahead. In contrast is a bright Poppy Red, trending as both a statement and accent color for shoes, dresses, blazers and more. 
If you’re a Spring Season, you’re in luck! These colors are directly within your most flattering color palette.

Stark White Shoes

Stark white shoes are trending! We love this shoe for a simultaneous statement and neutral basic piece. This versatile trend works seamlessly into a minimalist’s wardrobe, or as a grounded element in a textured or patterned outfit.
Trending shoes in white to look out for: mary janes, ballet flats, slingbacks, boots and shoes with wedges.

Delicate and Sexy: Sheer and Mesh

We’re loving how sheer and mesh pieces bring texture and interest into an outfit. This trend may look like a hard wear that involves layering or complicated pieces, but there are so many ways to insert it into your wardrobe without a second thought!
A few ideas for you:
The Accessory Element: Wear sheer stockings or mesh socks with anything from slingbacks and loafers to platform sandals.
How to Wear it in the Office: Try a high neck patterned mesh piece under a buttoned blazer and high waisted trousers for an elevated yet delicate peek of contrast.
How to Wear it on A Date: Wear a sheer top over a camisole, or a sheer dress over a slip dress to add interesting texture and show a little skin!

Motto Leather

Motto Leather is continuing to trend! Whether it’s real or faux, it edges you up and makes you feel modern (yet won’t really go out of style). There are tons of options on how to integrate leather into your wardrobe. A simple addition of a leather jacket or boot can be worn with close to anything, or a more advanced yet still versatile leather pant, dress or skirt can be effortlessly worn back to denim, basics and more.

Raw Edges

This forward design element feels completely fresh for 2023! An otherwise “rough around the edges” trend (See what we did there?) is innovated by color usage. Elevated delicate neutrals keep the trend upscale enough to wear beyond ultra-casual settings, such as In creative office spaces and for evenings out.

Big Bags

Office workers, take heed: jumbo totes are IN! Teeny tiny microbags take the backseat in this round of trending bags to favor a tote big enough for the likes of Mary Poppins. These supersize bags don’t lose their chicness in size. Minimalist designs come across as sculptural on the shoulder, making a stunning addition to your outfit rather than distracting from your silhouette.  

Walking Works of Art

2023 is moving away from florals in favor of blurred prints, subdued tie dye and abstracts.  

Jewelry Trend: Shoulder Skimmers

Shoulder skimming drop earrings are this year’s statement jewelry! Big teardrop pearls, boho dangle hoops, gems and architectural metal pieces will add a wow factor to even your most basic outfits. 

Metallics and High Shine

Liquid shine golds, crunchy tinsel silvers and light champagne pieces bring an unexpected but welcome shimmer into spring. Metallic statement pieces like dresses, tops, bottoms and jackets will carry you through the entire year without growing tired. Just like gold and silver jewelry, these pieces can be worn with just about any color or fabric – the possibilities are endless!
Our favorite understated statement: Take this trend to your shoe for parties, dates or extra fabulous ultra-creative daytime looks.

“The Office Silhouette”, A Sneak Peek Into Fall…

Stay ahead of the curve with our sneak peek into fall’s upcoming office silhouette!
Here’s the formula:
Big Shoulders, Knee Length Skirts, Sheer Black Stockings & Slingbacks.

Key Pieces to Purchase for Spring 2023

The post Trending for Spring and Summer 2023, A Fashion Overview appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

New Ways to Style Your Winter Outfits in 2023

If you’ve felt uninspired by the paired-down minimalism popularized in the past few years, you are going to LOVE the tasteful dose of decadence in 2023’s newest layering trend. We have four easy ways to pull your outfits into a new era! These distinctly 2023 outfit layering ideas are easy to copy with pieces you likely already have in your closet. However, in case you’re needing an update to some of these basic layering pieces, we’ve included our favorite must-have layerables at the end of this post.

Meg Gallagher specializes in both capsule and complete wardrobes, which offer extended wearability and layering in your outfits for years to come. If you’ve ever wanted a professionally curated wardrobe with every essential piece covered, wardrobe styling services by Meg Gallagher, Personal Stylist Los Angeles can be found here!

Why is Layering Trending Right Now?

Layering is sustainable. Layering to create new outfits extends the life of your pieces, leading to a longer lasting wardrobe. While some of these layering styles borrow direct inspiration from all too familiar 90’s and early 2000’s looks, it’s no wonder that sustainability-conscious Gen Z is popularizing the trend.

Layering is perfect for winter. Beat the chill of winter with a little extra (stylish!) coverage.

Layering fills in the negative space. Layering can add new colors, textures, pattern and contrast to an outfit for added interest.

Dress up or dress down with layers! Adding layers can blur the line between elevated and casual by mixing contrasting shapes, textures and materials.

Use a Turtleneck as Your Base Layer

Layer a Blouse or Sweater Vest Over a Turtleneck

Keep a little warmer in the winter by layering your turtleneck under button ups and sweater vests! We love this added layer for the added texture and depth it brings into an outfit. This look is great for the office or going out! Don’t want your turtleneck bunching up under all those layers? Check out our favorite turtleneck one-piece linked a the end of this article.

Layer a Turtleneck Under Dresses

We love this look for adding warmth to dresses, and helping to make low-cut dresses more wearable. Finish off the look with tights, trousers or jeans underneath to really round out the look. Try this idea for events, workwear and going out!

2. Hosiery with Slingbacks

Hosiery creates a sheer, delicate layer that encourages creative ways to fill in blank space. Patterned tights and hosiery in pop colors are great ways to create contrast in your outfit. We also love how simple sheer tights can elevate your pieces and create a touch of decadence! Slingback heels suit this trend best, as the shape of the shoe shows off your hosiery from front to back while complimenting sheer stockings with strong, angular shapes.

3. How To Layer a Dress Over Pants

This ultra creative layering trend extends the wearability of your dresses while allowing you a little extra warmth in the winter season. Brace yourself for 5 easy ways to achieve a layered dress over pants look!

Convert Your Dress Into a Tunic

Replace a tunic top with a dress, and pair it with trousers! This look is great for work and also works as an elevated look for events.

Make it Monochrome

Pair your dress with same color trousers for bold head to toe color, or pair the look with likeminded neutrals! Monochrome looks give the perfect opportunity to play with added textures like layering leather trousers underneath for shine, or adding a contrast textured bag or accessory to the outfit!

Dress it Down with Jeans

If you want to extend the wearability of your dresses, try wearing jeans underneath for a cheeky date outfit! Does your office allow denim? You can also copy this dress over jeans look for an elevated work outfit idea.

Replace Your Duster Coat with Button Up Dresses

Replace your duster coat, trench coat or top layer with a long flowing button up dress! This look is fabulous for going out, date night, events and as a work outfit when paired with trousers.

How to Layer Patterned Dresses

Making an outfit with patterned dresses is easy! First, identify the base, pop colors or accents in your pattern. Then, match the surrounding pieces to one of those colors. You can either mimic the pop-color, accent or base in the pieces that surround it, OR choose a color that compliments it.
A visual example of how it works: The lavender base color of the first dress pairs well with light blue. The middle outfit has a pop of mid-blue in the pattern, which is paired with mid-blue denim. The final outfit has cream accents, which is paired with a cream top, accessory and shoes.

4. Adding a Layer with Gloves

Just like with the tights, layering with gloves is another creative way to fill in negative space with texture and color. Our favorite way to wear gloves in 2023 is to pair the glove color with your coat, so that the piece looks like an extension of your outerwear! This monochrome approach to gloves adds flawless chicness to your outfit, and warmth, too.

Four Creative Ways to Pair Your Gloves

Pictured first are sheer gloves. We love how sheer gloves add visual interest to an outfit, especially when paired with contrasting textures like a two-piece heathered knit!
Pictured second is an outfit with grounded accent colors. Pairing your gloves with your buttons, shoes, bag or accessories is a great way to solidify your outfit.
Pictured third is a monochrome pop color ensemble. While this look is more of a statement, we can’t help but applaud this bold approach to pairing a monochrome gloves outfit.
Pictured last is a contrast color ensemble. Pairing a colored glove with a monochrome outfit adds interest to the look without risking the wearability of your pieces.

Layering Must-Haves We Love

If you need to replace your basics or want an update to the layerable pieces in your wardrobe, look no further! These are our favorite layerable pieces for 2023 that will serve as the most wearable pieces in your wardrobe! Shop our favorites and must-haves below.

The post 4 Layering Trends to Transform Your Winter Outfits in 2023 appeared first on Madison to Melrose.