Lesson #1: Yellow is the new black
Photo credit: Brian To/WENN.com
If you don't already have a LYD (little yellow dress, that is), it's time to run to the mall to snag one. The look is shaping up to be one of summer 2014's most noteworthy style trends, as Chrissy proved here at the Spike TV Guys Choice Awards, and it's a style we can all rock in one way or another to brighten up our summer look.
The expert says: Not sure which tone of yellow suits your complexion? Fret not, we consulted Salvador Perez, costume designer for The Mindy Project and spokesperson for Casio Baby G watches, to get the color cues. "The color yellow is summer in a bottle, it's fresh and bright and makes you feel better wearing it," Salvador says.
- Fair: "If you are fair, you want to go with a pastel yellow to brighten you up," Salvador says.
- Medium to olive skin: "As a general rule, citrus yellows work well on medium to olive tones and darker olive skin goes well with bolder yellow colors," Salvador suggests.
- Dark: "The darker your skin tone, the brighter and bolder yellows and marigolds work better," Salvador advises.
Get the look: Shoshanna Strapless Cascade Dress (T.J. Maxx, $130)
Lesson #2: The undone updo simply rocks
Photo credit: Michael Stewart/WireImage/Getty Images
This loose, romantic 'do has been gaining major traction the past few seasons, and Chrissy knows how to wear it just right: wispy and wavy. Perfect for date night, special events or a day of running tedious errands, the undone updo is the ideal look for gals who just want to get their hot as heck long hair off their shoulders in the hot months but still look cute.
The expert says: Riccardo Maggiore, salon owner and stylist at New York City's acclaimed Riccardo Maggiore Salon, says prep work is key to nailing this 'do. "You must create a foundation for this style. A product like Oribe’s wax will give the proper texture and keep the hair in place. Pin your hair under using as many bobby pins as needed while keeping out a few pieces in the front. If you have shorter bangs and want a more styled look you can quickly use a curling iron on the front pieces. On humid days, use a light hairspray to keep extra frizz away." Marcus Garcia, stylist at the salon's new downtown Fifth Avenue location, says the look is popular with good reason: "The un-done updo is everywhere lately and not just on celebrities. Everyone is so busy today and this low-maintenance look is ideal for the woman on the go. It has that tousled, messy look so you don’t have to worry about every single hair being in place."
Get the look: Suave Extreme Hold Hairspray (Target, $3)
Lesson #3: Summer lace doesn't have to feel hot
Photo credit: Larry Busacca/Getty Images/Getty Images
Lace is always en vogue, but this summer it's especially so. If the thought of wearing itchy, sweaty lace in the hot months just gave you a few premature hot flashes, though, you're not alone. Most gals reserve lace for the cooler months, but Chrissy isn't most gals. Here, she wisely paired a lacy sheath with a complementary blazer draped over the shoulders for the CFDA Fashion Awards.
The expert says: Meredith Markworth Pollack, costume designer for Reign, says you most definitely can rock lace and still feel comfortable when the mercury rises: "Lace can be a perfect summer look even while keeping your cool. Try a sheer lace top or dress with a lightweight slip or bra underneath. That way your look is still breathable and comfortable without sacrificing the detail of the lace. It's also a great day-to-night piece, which in the summer is essential."
Get the look: MissGuided Madaline Lace Wrap Over Midi Dress (missguidedus.com, $54)
Lesson #4: Demure can definitely be sexy
Photo credit: Gilbert Carrasquillo/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images
Sophisticated styles and hemlines are officially making a comeback. And while the obligatory summer minis will always be a fashion staple, this season the industry's hottest trendsetters like Chrissy are stepping out in midi-length dresses, full and flirty skirts and frocks that show a little less skin. Leaving a little something to the imagination? We can get behind that idea.
The expert says: Rebecca Hofherr, costume designer for Elementary, says the demure look is a trend that will always be in style. "Making new styles out of your old is a great way to revamp your wardrobe. The midi-skirt and sophisticated look is back for 2014. This year pair your sophisticated blouses and your midi skirts with a colorful Oxford shoe and a large Moroccan-inspired necklace and you'll be right on trend," she says.
Get the look: Modcloth Essential Elegance Skirt in Kelly Green (modcloth.com, $49)
Lesson #5: The faux bang is a fun way to experiment
Photo credit: Judy Eddy/WENN.com, Brian To/WENN.com
We've said it before and we'll say it again: Bangs take some serious commitment. With all the blow drying, flat ironing and frequent trims that come along with the look, it can sometimes feel like they're not even worth your time. At this year's Billboard Awards, Chrissy toyed around with the look in a totally non-committal way we adored: a wig featuring blunt bangs.
The expert says: "It is a good idea to test bangs because heavy bangs are a statement and once you cut them you have them for a while. Test out bangs first to make sure you like them," says Riccardo Maggiore. He says there are a few ways to test drive the look: "First, you can pin your hair under in the shape of bangs at the desired length. Option two is to try clip on bangs like Chrissy is in this photo. To wear these, you take a triangular section of hair from your face and clip on the pair of fake bangs. To make the bangs look natural just cover the edges with some of your natural hair to blend the bangs into the rest of the hairstyle."
Get the look: Hair2Wear Full-Sweeping Side Fringe (hair2wear.com, $24)
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