It’s that time of the year again, where we all pull out our winter’s coziest coats from storage! If you’ve ever pulled out your coats, only to realize you have no idea how to freshen them up for the new season, look no further! This is your 101 guide on coast to coast essential coats, washing winter coats and how to take care of them.

How do you buy the perfect coat? To build a successful coat wardrobe, you have to start with the why. Why do you need a coat? For that chilled-to-the-bone winter air of NYC? For the mild winter mornings in LA? For business trips across the country? For that special night out so you don’t freeze in your dress? The reality is that you can’t solve every situation with one coat.
If you’re in NYC, chances are you need a coat that can withstand layering. And if you’re in sunny Los Angeles, you’re going to need something notably lighter. Not only is weather a factor, but your needs can change based on the occasion as well!

We’re going to show you a few of our favorite basic coat styles that cover the most common needs from coast to coast, and how to wash winter coats, maintain their quality and keep them clean.

Want travel ready outfits for work, vacation outfits or an update to your winter wardrobe basics? Wardrobe styling services by Meg Gallagher, Personal Stylist Los Angeles can be found here!

The All-Purpose Oversized Wool Coat

A true essential, this oversized wool coat is perfect for a commuter’s NYC layers with it’s wide armholes and chic design. We recommend purchasing this piece in basic colors to extend the wearability. Stick to black, camel, navy, maroon, olive or cream before venturing into check patterns or statement colors.

How to Care For a Wool Jacket

-Use a lint roller to clean a coat after daily wear before hanging the piece in your closet.

-When there’s a spill on your jacket, blot the spot and do not rub it! The idea is to soak up the spill and not spread it further.

-Always hang your coat on a sturdy hanger with ample space to keep the weight of the coat from stretching the shoulder areas. If packed too tightly with other items, your coat could become crumpled.

-Make sure to dry clean winter coat at the end of the season and hang in a garment bag to prevent insects from infesting the wool.

The Belted Trench & Wrap Coat

Best serving the fall and spring climate of San Francisco and New York, these trending coat styles create a flattering shape like no other! We love duster-trench hybrids for Los Angeles that provide all the style without the rainy disposition. The wrap coat is a chic go-to for NYC and LA evenings out, desk-to-dinners, alfresco date nights and any other occasion you need a cozy-yet-elegant top layer. 

How to Care For Waterproof Trench Coats

-Although care for a trench largely depends on what the piece is made out of, most trenches (Unless they are leather) are much more machine-wash friendly than other coat alternatives. Even still, it is best to dry-clean and spot clean when possible. 

-If you need to clean your waterproof jacket as well as reproofing, try this product. 

How to Care for Leather Trench Coats

-Never leave your jacket folded for a long period of time, as this can encourage creases and cracks in the leather. 

-Keep your jacket away from heat sources like sunlight, ironing and steam to avoid the material becoming brittle.

-Keep your jacket DRY! No Rain! If your coat does get wet, leave it out on a hanger to dry.

-Condition your leather to prolong it’s lifespan and prevent cracking.

How to Care for Faux Leather (Vegan Leather, Pleather) Trench Coats

-While there are different forms of faux leather, there are a few general rules of thumb to keep the material from cracking and distorting.
-Avoid machine washing to maintain the integrity of your coat. Mix liquid dish detergent with warm water, and use a soft bristle brush to hand-scrub your garment and then rinse with cold water. Hang garment to dry to avoid distortion of the coat.
-Just need to freshen up your coat without washing it? Freshen between washes by spritzing with The Laundress Delicate Spray – a versatile formula for cleaning your faux leather that has antibacterial properties, which adds scent while removing odor.

The Cozy Puffer Coat

This is a great coat for travel that accounts for rain, snow, and proper coziness. For NYC, invest in a down puffer jacket. For Los Angeles, opt for a lightweight alternative. 

How to Care For a Down Jacket

-Aim to wash this piece 1-2 times a year and spot treat when needed. Excessive washing can cause wear and tear!

-Avoid compressing your jacket by squishing it in a backpack or travel suitcase. If too compressed, give it a low-heat tumble in the dryer and hang it up as soon as possible. 

-Keep this piece from getting soaked, as it takes a LOT of time to dry!

-Feathers sticking out of your jacket? Don’t pull them out – push them back in! See these patching instructions by rei.com.

The Going Out Coat

These are the coats that are fashion forward with the sole purpose of adding a fabulous top layer to your ensemble. Great for events, nights out and statement outfits!

The post How to Clean and Make Your Winter Coats Look Fabulous appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

Defining the Holiday Outfit

What defines a holiday party outfit most prominently is texture!
Textural pieces like velvet, lace, feathers, sparkle, fur, silk, pleats, ruffle, rhinestones and tulle not only pair well with winter sweaters and knits, but create a party-ready elevation to your outfit that helps blur the line between casual and upscale. Ever been uncertain about the dress code on your party invitation? Keeping your outfit in that festive middle ground is the key to neither appearing overdressed or underdressed. Let texture be your secret weapon for navigating Christmas outfit ideas, New Years Eve party outfits, Hannukkah celebrations and more!

Applying the Texture Rule to Two Common Holiday Dress Codes

Outfit Ideas for “Festive Attire”, The Jolly Black Hole of Party Invitations

If vagueness within the term “Festive Attire” brings you a sense of panic, you’re not alone.
Festive Attire is pretty much a codeword for adding a festive element to your party outfit. This could be a textural piece, a color (red, blue, green, silver, white or gold!), or even jewelry or an accessory reminiscent of the season. That said, it’s a broad term that can really only be filtered by what the event actually is. Identify where the invite states the party is being held, the time of day the party is being held, and who your party host is! Still confused? We’ll dive into some common “Festive Attire” scenarios, but let this be your rule of thumb – In a moment of doubt, it is better to appear overdressed than underdressed.

“Festive attire” parties with close friends in a home environment likely call for a casual outfit with a festive inserted element such as swapping your usual sweater for an ugly sweater, swapping your jeans for leather pants, or swapping a casual skirt for a tulle skirt.

Is your friendly host the excessive type? If your friend has a reputation of dressing their best, blur that casual-elevated line by avoiding casual shoes like sneakers for a heel or heeled bootie, opting for trousers or leather pants over jeans and bringing upscale outfit-elevating jewelry to either wear or remove upon arrival to the event.

Festive Attire at the Office Party

Is there a daytime party, taking place within the office? Try inserting that festive element into your usual work clothes – A sweater with a leather or shimmer skirt instead of your usual skirt, swapping your usual blazer with a velvet one, or opting for a holiday print dress over your usual colors!

“Festive attire” evening events with coworkers in a really nice rented out venue, however, may call for an upscale bend. (Think work appropriate cocktail hour outfits!) Festive elements like a velvet blazer over a blouse and trousers, a satin look in holiday green, or a dress or jumpsuit in holiday texture or pattern are all great choices!

Outfit Ideas for the Cocktail Soiree (Dinner Parties and Evening Celebrations)

Go all out with your party best! Loud outfits in sparkling sequin, colorful mini dresses and two-piece velvet suits with fabulous jewelry and heels are all welcome at this celebratory event.
Is this cocktail soiree a work function? See our above comment on “Festive attire” evening events with coworkers.

Need a stylist’s help looking your best for the holidays? Wardrobe styling services by Meg Gallagher, Personal Stylist Los Angeles can be found here!

Festive Pieces and Accessories for Holiday Party Outfits

The post What Do You Wear to a 2022 Holiday Party? Ideas from a Personal Stylist appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

You’ll know just what outfit to wear for the next holiday party with our ideas on how to wear glitter and metallics. Whether you prefer subtle shine or bold sparkle – we have looks that cover anything from casual outings with friends to office party mingling, and even the most fabulous nighttime soirées!

GLITTER & SHINE SKIRTS:

The outfit possibilities are endless when it comes to shiny statement skirts! Match a sequin pencil skirt with a sweater and boots for an easy-wear outfit to the office party, or pair metallic pleats with a leather jacket, tee and white sneakers for an easy weekend look. We love the idea of pairing a sparkling skirt with muted colors and neutrals for impressive contrast.

Shop Skirts:

GLITTER & SHINE PANTS:

Pants that shine possess an ability to give two distinct moods: Go sophisticated with a white blouse or simple sweater, or go full rocker chic with feathers, fur or fringe!

Shop Pants:

GLITTER & SHINE TOPS:

We love a glitter cami layered over a mesh top or under a blazer! Sparkly tops also look great with simple black jeans or muted leather leggings.

Shop Tops:

GLITTER & SHINE BLAZERS:

Layer a glitter blazer over a tee and leather pants or a mini dress for nights out!

Shop Blazers:

GLITTER & SHINE EVENING:

Embrace glitz and glamour with the all-out elegance of a sequin jumpsuit or dress!!! For more stunning metallic and sparkle evening wear, check out our post on Galvan.

Shop Jumpsuits & Dresses:

GLITTER & SHINE SHOES:

Use shoes that shine as a statement, or as additional texture to compliment another piece in your outfit. Here are some of our favorites!

Shop Shoes:

GLITTER & SHINE ACCESSORIES:

Perhaps the most subtle way to add luster to your ensemble, try out a hair accessory or silver-flecked socks to distribute understated radiance to any outfit!

Shop Accessories:

Want more glitter & shine inspo? Check out our pinterest page here:

The post Glitter and Shine for the Holidays! appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

Black Friday is HERE! And now you’re left with the question – What the heck do I buy?? There’s so many seemingly great offers to sift through, but we’re here to tell you exactly what’s worth nabbing those deals on: The Luxury Basics and The Versatile Statement.

Luxury Basics

Let’s start with the luxury basics. They’re the pieces you may initially hesitate to buy due to a hefty price, but are trend-resistant quality pieces that will last for years. The goal is to find pieces that are well made and will continue giving back to your wardrobe season to season.

Here Are Some Great Basics We Love:

This is one of those pieces really worth splurging on. A belt may seem like a trivial accessory, but a good belt can elevate an outfit and emphasize figure flattering shapes (see our post: How To Wear a Waist Belt). Invest in a belt like this one that is both flexible and high quality for a wardrobe essential that will withstand the test of time.

Get the right ankle boot and have a trusted go-to shoe that you can pair with almost anything. This one from Madewell is available in some of the best basic colors!

The white sneaker is the must-have for owning casual style. Pair with dresses, jeans, and anything in-between! We love this sneaker from Y-3.

Leather jackets never go out of style. We love this one from ALLSAINTS for it’s classic silhouette!

Warm yourself up with the perfect cardigan. Jenni Kayne is great for quality pieces that are timeless AND cozy!

Versatile Statement Pieces

The versatile statement piece is a boot, bag, coat, etc. that speaks to the now in pattern or shape, but can be seamlessly inserted into your wardrobe and worn in many ways throughout the season. The idea is to keep your cost per wear in mind. If you can wear it over and over again, it’s likely worth it’s price tag!

Here Are Some Trend-Right Versatile Pieces We Love:

We love how these Loeffler Randall boots are both trend-right in shape AND in pattern, yet can also fit into a range of styles. Think pairing them with anything from dresses and skirts to wearing over your favorite skinny jeans! The wearability here is super high. Croc makes any outfit look oh-so expensive, after all.

You may think a good holiday dress can only be worn once, but we know you can find something better. Opt for a dress that’s elegant enough to play up with great heels and jewelry, but is simple enough to also dress down with a cardigan or blazer. We LOVE this Reformation dress (also available in petite sizes!) that is trend-right in color and has a modern slit. It’s elegant, but simple enough to wear over and over again.

Blazers still aren’t going anywhere and this one from Reiss a great starter piece. See our post on How to Wear the Oversized Blazer for more inspo on just how versatile this piece can be!

Colder weather is here – LAYER UP! Nod to trending waist cinching silhouettes by trying this Frankie Shop trench coat in cool cream or tan for easy wearability. 

Leather pants might as well be the jeans of Winter 2019. Pair these Rag & Bone faves with a cozy sweater and sneakers or ankle boots!

Want some style inspiration? Check out our pinterest for style tips, mood boards, outfit ideas and more!

The post What to Buy: Black Friday appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

We’ve found the perfect piece to up your outfit game for the holidays: THE SLIP DRESS! We love this piece for a couple of reasons. First reason being it’s SO versatile. Simply throw a sweater over your slip dress and add sneakers for a comfortable travel outfit.
Some ideas below:

For special events and family dinners, dress it up with jewelry and heels. The possibilities are endless!!!
See some favorite looks here:

Slip dresses are usually cut on the bias, which means they have natural stretch and are flattering on many body types. No restrictive waist bands either – so you can eat all that holiday dinner without reserve!

Want more ideas on how to wear this piece? Check out our pinterest board for more ways to layer and style!

Buy Slip Dresses:

The post How to Wear the Slip Dress appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

 

 

 

Sparkle and shine into the new year with these on-trend earrings…  

DRIPPING CRYSTAL & CHANDELIER EARRINGS: 

 

 

 

 

 

   Kenneth Jay Lane Crystal Drop Earrings  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Linear Crystal Ball Drop Earrings

 

 

 

 Crystal Twist Drop Earrings JULES SMITH  

 

  OSCAR DE LA RENTA Embellished clip-on earrings

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  ELLERY Veil XL Chandelier earrings

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 OSCAR DE LA RENTA Embellished clip-on drop earrings  

 

 

 

Theia Jewelry Harper Drop Earrings

 

 

 

 

 

  Winter Paisley Linear Crystal Earrings ALEXIS BITTAR

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Pavé Crystal Fringe Drop Earrings NINA 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Floral Stone Cluster Drop Earrings

 

 

 Crystal Rhinestone Earrings Chan Luu 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Pavé Teardrop Earring

 

 

 

 

 

Crystal Drop Earrings BEN-AMUN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Golden Shadow Swarovski Crystal Earrings 

  

  

 *photography courtesy Alexis Bittar

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The post Dripping Crystals appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

 

 

 

 

1. Velvet Blazers:

Dress it up with a button up, or keep it simple paired with a dark crew neck tee. Add some slim fit black jeans and chelsea boots for a fool-proof ensemble!  

SHOP THE LOOK HERE: 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Russian Embroideries Velvet Jacket

 

 

 

 

 DI LIBORIO Classic Blazer  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Jetsetter Stretch Velvet Navy Blazer

 

 

 

 

 Slim Fit Velvet Black Blazer  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

2.  THE DEBONAIR PAIR 

:

 

 

Match the dashing looks of James Bond in a blazer, turtleneck and upscale jeans or slim-fit trousers.

 

 

SHOP THE LOOK HERE:

 

 

 LARDINI Textured Blazer  

 

 

  LARDINI Zig Zag Patterned Blazer

  LARDINI Classic Fitted Blazer 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOMBOLINI Formal Tailored Blazer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Merino Wool Turtleneck Sweater

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1988 Rollneck™ Sweater

  Donegal Cashmere Turtleneck 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  H&M Merino Wool-blend Sweater

   Lambswool Long-Sleeve Turtleneck 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Fluxus Slim-Fit Trousers 

  Incotex Slim-Fit Trousers 

 

 

 

  Army-Green Slim-Fit Cotton-Corduroy Suit Trousers

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. THE ELEVATED SWEATER:

 

 

Maintain coziness by layering a sweater with a button up or blazer.

 

 

 

SHOP THE LOOK HERE:

 

 

 

 Merino Wool-Jacquard Sweater  

 

 

  Talbot Cable-Knit Wool Sweater

  Cable-Knit Cashmere Sweater 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Quilted Shawl Collar Top

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Shawl-Collar Merino Wool-Blend Sweater

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Shawl-Collar Cashmere Sweater

 

 

 

 

Need a new suit? Try one of these:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Theory Brunswick Suit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  OFFICINE GENERALE Black Slim-Fit Wool/Mohair-Blend  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Jetsetter Stretch Italian Wool Suit 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Theory Black Chambers Slim-Fit Stretch-Wool Suit 

 

 

  

 

 

 Navy Hutson/Gander Slim-Fit Checked 3 Piece Suit 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The post The Holiday Party MEN’S EDITION appeared first on Madison to Melrose.