Editor's note: The following is a guest post written by Rachel Zoe, stylist, fashion designer, and creator of The Zoe Report. This week Rachel dishes about her favourite accessory.
In terms of fashion meeting function, there is no accessory more crucial than a standout pair of sunnies . . . or do not disturb signs, as I like to call them. They put the finishing touch on an outfit while protecting your eyes from the sun or concealing puffiness from a late night out (we've all been there). When shopping for a new pair, pay attention to the shape so you choose something that flatters your face AND colour — I almost always suggest neutrals since sunglasses are something you will wear every day. Also, keep in mind that you do not have to spend a fortune to get a-mah-zing sunnies. True, it is great to have at least one very nice pair — Oliver Peoples Balmain 2 Aviators are my ultimate fantasy — but there are countless stylish options out there with savvy price tags. For inspiration on a few different styles at a variety of prices, read on and see my current top five do not disturb sign picks . . . ! xoRZ
Editor’s note: The following is a guest post written by Rachel Zoe, stylist, fashion designer, and creator of The Zoe Report. This week Rachel advises on work wardrobe dos and dont's. Thankfully, the rules of business dressing are not how they used to be. While I do love a classic secretary suave look — à la Banana Republic's Mad Men-inspired silhouettes — I think the modern day woman is fortunate to have a little bit more flexibility with her wardrobe. The level of freedom depends, of course, on the type of work environment you're in. For instance, if you are someone in a corporate setting, you should aim to build your wardrobe all around a great suit! Find one that fits perfectly (or have it tailored) in black, grey, or another neutral, then wear it a million different ways. The idea is that when you invest in a full suit, you can break it up and incorporate each piece — a jacket, vest, pants, pencil skirt, etc. — with what you already have in your closet. Try something as simple as wearing your suit jacket over a white blouse and pair of jeans, then punch it up with an accessory or two. To read the rest of Rachel's work style tips and her favourite career pieces,
RZ headquarters is under attack by bizarro Rachel, and there's only one thing that can save the day — a fashion faceoff complete with lightsaber rings and faux fur vests. Comedian Zoe impersonator Amy Phillips stars alongside Rachel, Rodger, and Brad in this hilarious send-up of the fashion icon and FabSugar guest blogger with a peek inside the making of her addictive daily newsletter. PopSugar Studios teamed up with The Zoe Report to create this amazing video: The Zoeinator. It's bananas!
I still really miss Taylor. I know we haven't caught up with the new season of The Rachel Zoe Project yet, but I'm anticipating it just won't be the same without Tay's dramatic eye rolls. The Cut was lucky enough to catch up with the platinum blonde stylist to chat about life since leaving Zoe headquarters. Some highlights include:
On what she's up to: I’m styling, I’m building my roster of clients — you know, editorials, campaigns, personal shopping for private clients I have. I’m pretty much doing the same thing, just on my own. Will she return to reality TV?: I don’t know if I’m really cut out to do reality TV. It’s just not the direction I want — I’m so awkward. There’s things on the table, but it’s not my priority. On working on her own: I was ready. To, like, go off on your own, do it for yourself, have your own clients, have your own ventures. In the terms of, like, getting your world, your accounts set up — like your FedExes — it’s been a lot of work. But I’ve never been happier. I assisted for a long time — serious stylists, actually — and I just felt like it’s time. Her advice to aspiring stylists: First of all, it’s not glamorous. I feel like people don’t realize that it’s a lot of manual labour — you’re schlepping garment bags, you’re not in the most glamorous locations. But never give up. If that’s your dream, start interning at a PR company.
The following is a guest post written by Rachel Zoe, stylist, fashion designer, and creator of The Zoe Report. This week Rachel shows us her blanco fashion selections. During the Fall, everything and everyone in the fashion world tends to steer in a darker direction, so naturally, the inclination for Summer is the total opposite: bright and light! A striking white piece or two — be it clothing or an accessory — will give an instant lift to any outfit. Think: a white denim jacket, bleached-out shorts or even some ivory nail polish . . .beyond chic. Read on for the whiteout picks that I am currently coveting and incorporate them into your Summer looks for a vibe that is just as stylish as your all-black ensembles . . . but less expected. Lastly, please don't be afraid to rock your pale pieces throughout the colder months too — not wearing white after Labor Day is so passé. xoRZ
It should come as no surprise that Rachel Zoe has inked a deal to roll out her lifestyle brand, The Rachel Zoe Collection. Rachel will pump out contemporary accessories, shoes, and apparel for Fall 2011, with the possibility of homewares later on. Goods will be sold in selected OS department stores, specialty stores, and e-commerce. Zoe revealed, "Subconsciously or consciously, my whole final goal — I don't want to say final because that sounds very like it's the end — but I would say my ultimate dream scenario was to be on the design side."
Want more juicy details about The Rachel Zoe Collection and see a preview of The Rachel Zoe Project season three?
The following is a guest post written by Rachel Zoe, stylist, fashion designer, and creator of The Zoe Report. This week Rachel reminds us of the value of colour.
If you have found yourself swimming in a sea of neutrals day after day,the upcoming warmer months are here to remind you to punch things up with some colour. Don't worry, I am not going to take away your plain white tee or LBDs, just fashionably instructing you to throw a coral bib necklace or aqua peep-toe booties into the mix! Even a splash of bold nail polish — I love Deborah Lippmann's new Supermodel Red —can revamp an otherwise muted look. Now, read on to see my roundup of chromatic picks and get to colouring! xoRZ
Fab guest blogger Rachel Zoe sparkled in a midnight blue sequin sleeved gown for her appearance at the CFDA Fashion Awards. She teamed the vintage Halston dress with black satin Casadei heels, a patent clutch and an assortment of silver and gold jewellery, including an impressive pair of chandelier earrings. This is typical Zoe style — loose, plunging and embellished. Has her tried and tested formula impressed you this time round?
The following is a guest post written by Rachel Zoe, stylist, fashion designer, and creator of The Zoe Report. Today, Rachel shows us some awesome statement jewels.
My job would be nothing without jewellery — it is the essential life force behind every outfit! This fashion truth is especially true during the Summertime, when bold and vivid pieces are everywhere to be found. Seriously — there are so many insane picks on the market right now. And the best part is you do not have to spend your rent money to get your hands on them . . . in fact, I found a few jaw-dropping pieces that are all under US$100! Mah-jor. Now take a look to choose a fave — maybe the bright bib necklace, larger-than-life cocktail ring, or golden bangle? — and don't forget to throw on one or all with whatever you are wearing . . . xoRZ
Editor’s note:The following is a guest post written by Rachel Zoe, stylist, fashion designer and creator of The Zoe Report. This week Rachel delves into the wonderful world of menswear.
When it comes to menswear-inspired style — or borrowing from the boys as I like to call it — I always prefer to find a balance of femininity with my look, rather than going for a completely boyish getup. Alexa Chung does this beautifully, so keep her in mind as a muse! To execute the trend yourself, just mix a few masculine pieces into your own wardrobe while remembering to complement tougher fabrics with softer textiles. For instance, I love the juxtaposition of a chunky military jacket over a soft, ruffled minidress. Also, don't forget accessories are key in any menswear aesthetic . . . an oversize watch, fedora, or briefcase bag can effortlessly shift your look in an androgynous direction. Ready to try it? Start with one or more of the following . . . xoRZ
I still really miss Taylor. I know we haven't caught up with the new season of 
