Marisa Tom
Associate Editor, Fashion
summer style

Summer Travel 101: How to Pack Light (Like a Pro)

With Memorial Day weekend on the horizon, and even more quick Summer getaways on the docket, we're prepping with a refresher in minimalist packing.

With Memorial Day weekend on the horizon, and even more quick Summer getaways on the docket, we're prepping with a refresher in minimalist packing. Because as much as we love feeling ready for any dress code, it's not exactly fun lugging around an overpacked bag, either. Cutting down on what makes it inside your weekender bag has everything to do with staying calm, cool, and collected. Ask yourself: What's the weather going to be like? Are there any formal evening events involved? Is there room to recycle outfit pieces? Those answers should help shape the contents of your packing strategy, along with employing a level of self-restraint, of course. Read on for our quick tips for packing (light) like a pro. Have one to share? Do so below!

  • Don't underestimate the power of making a list. Write down the bare essentials of what you'll need for your trip, wherever the final destination may be. Key word here is basic: bras, underwear, socks, a pair of jeans, a warmer layer for the evenings, a chic go-with-everything dress, and so on. Then, follow your list without exception — it'll help you to not go overboard when you start digging into your wardrobe.
  • Do be reasonable. Override that voice in your head trying to convince you that you absolutely need six tops for a three-day trip. You don't . . . and the practical you knows that.
  • Don't skimp too much. If you know that you're going to a wedding with formal dinners planned every night, then yes pack a few extra dresses. The trade-off? Include a neutral-toned pair of ankle-strap sandals that go with each outfit, so you don't have to overload on the shoe front.

More tips after the jump!

summer style

42 Designer Collaborations You Should Know About (and Shop!) Right Now

The latest batch of designer collaborations has us plotting all the ways we can style these ingenious seasonal matchups.

The latest batch of designer collaborations has us plotting all the ways we can style these ingenious seasonal matchups. From the high-low partnerships to the unexpected duos to the capsules that continue to reinvent the wheel (hello, Charlotte Olympia x Tom Binns!), this Spring's — and Summer's — most exciting collaborations promise to supply us with our fair share of warm-weather-perfect pieces. Think quirky zebra-head prints à la Peter Som for Anthropologie, cool-girl sandals courtesy of the third annual J.Crew x CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund partnership, and vintage-inspired swimwear staples with a twist, courtesy of another J.Crew collaboration, this one with Pret-à-Surf. Click on to see all this, plus all the other designer collaborations we're excited to get our hands on.

Celebrity Style

Pregnant Kate Middleton Glows in Yellow — See All Her Stylish Moments!

Already a style favorite, Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, has continued to entrance us with her stylish maternity ensembles.

Already a style favorite, Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, has continued to entrance us with her stylish maternity ensembles. She chose a daffodil-hued Emilia Wickstead coat for her appearance at Queen Elizabeth's annual garden party this week, the bright color adding to the general glow surrounding the expectant mom.

See close-ups of her sweet ensemble, plus some of our other favorite fashion moments from the duchess, right here. From her stunning teal Jenny Packham gown and Issa wrap dresses to her perfect Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen-designed wedding dress and countless tartan-print coats, it's virtually impossible not to fall a little bit in love with Kate's easy elegance.

Jessica Chastain Wears Elizabeth Taylor's Jewels to Cleopatra Premiere

There was no tribute more fitting for the 50th anniversary viewing of Cleopatra — and to the film's stars, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton — than Jessica Chastain wearing one of Taylor's Bulgari necklaces at the Cannes premiere.

There was no tribute more fitting for the 50th anniversary viewing of Cleopatra — and to the film's stars, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton — than Jessica Chastain wearing one of Taylor's Bulgari necklaces at the Cannes premiere. It was a gift given to Taylor by Burton on her 40th birthday, in 1972.

The sapphire-and-diamond sautoir (with a 65-carat center stone) is part of an eight-piece collection that the jewellery house bought back from Taylor's 2011 Christie's auction, and these pieces have rarely been loaned to celebrities. "I feel so lucky to be wearing them. They looked so fabulous on her and she was a movie star from her head to her toes," said Chastain. "That kind of glamorous star doesn't exist anymore but their diamonds do."

See an all-angles look at the stunning Bulgari necklace, here in the gallery.

Celebrity Style

Jessica Chastain Wears Elizabeth Taylor's Jewels to Cleopatra Premiere

There was no tribute more fitting for the 50th anniversary viewing of Cleopatra — and to the film's stars, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton — than Jessica Chastain wearing one of Taylor's Bulgari necklaces at the Cannes premiere.

There was no tribute more fitting for the 50th anniversary viewing of Cleopatra — and to the film's stars, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton — than Jessica Chastain wearing one of Taylor's Bulgari necklaces at the Cannes premiere. It was a gift given to Taylor by Burton on her 40th birthday, in 1972.

The sapphire-and-diamond sautoir (with a 65-carat center stone) is part of an eight-piece collection that the jewelry house bought back from Taylor's 2011 Christie's auction, and these pieces have rarely been loaned to celebrities. "I feel so lucky to be wearing them. They looked so fabulous on her and she was a movie star from her head to her toes," said Chastain. "That kind of glamorous star doesn't exist anymore but their diamonds do."

An all-angles look at the stunning Bulgari necklace, here in the gallery.

Summer Travel 101: How to Pack Light (Like a Pro)

With the long weekend about to commence, and even more quick Summer getaways on the docket, we're prepping with a refresher in minimalist packing.

With the long weekend about to commence, and even more quick Summer getaways on the docket, we're prepping with a refresher in minimalist packing. Because as much as we love feeling ready for any dress code, it's not exactly fun lugging around an overpacked bag, either. Cutting down on what makes it inside your weekender bag has everything to do with staying calm, cool, and collected. Ask yourself: What's the weather going to be like? Are there any formal evening events involved? Is there room to recycle outfit pieces? Those answers should help shape the contents of your packing strategy, along with employing a level of self-restraint, of course. Read on for our quick tips for packing (light) like a pro. Have one to share? Do so below!

  • Don't underestimate the power of making a list. Write down the bare essentials of what you'll need for your trip, wherever the final destination may be. Key word here is basic: bras, underwear, socks, a pair of jeans, a warmer layer for the evenings, a chic go-with-everything dress, and so on. Then, follow your list without exception — it'll help you to not go overboard when you start digging into your wardrobe.
  • Do be reasonable. Override that voice in your head trying to convince you that you absolutely need six tops for a three-day trip. You don't . . . and the practical you knows that.
  • Don't skimp too much. If you know that you're going to a wedding with formal dinners planned every night, then yes pack a few extra dresses. The trade-off? Include a neutral-toned pair of ankle-strap sandals that go with each outfit, so you don't have to overload on the shoe front.

More tips after the jump!

summer

The Ultimate Summer Guide to Denim

Whether you're a denim loyalist or just on the hunt for the perfect pair of cutoffs, you've come to the right place.

Whether you're a denim loyalist or just on the hunt for the perfect pair of cutoffs, you've come to the right place. But as a warning, this season's play on bold prints isn't for the faint of heart, nor are the cool-girl takes on ultradistressed silhouettes. For the casual dresser, the tomboy short is ideal for the laziest days of Summer. And if you're already riding the '90s throwback wave, then why not embrace the overalls revival while you're at it? Edgier moto vests, fresh pastel skinnies, and a totally new interpretation on patchwork can only mean one thing: the denim lover will be well stocked this Summer. See — and shop — all the standout denim, or choose a key trend below.

Embellished
The Tomboy Short
Patchwork
The Denim Dress
Stripes
The Denim Shirt
Bold Prints
Distressed
Overalls
Pastels
The Moto Motif

— Additional reporting by Leah Melby

Source: Greg Kessler

Poll

Which Dior-Clad Beauty Gets Your Best-Dressed Vote?

The dreamy clothes at the Christian Dior Resort 2014 show didn't stop at runway's end.

The dreamy clothes at the Christian Dior Resort 2014 show didn't stop at runway's end. The collection, which was presented in Monaco over the weekend, also played host to one very stylish front row. Jessica Biel chose this stunning Fall 2013 dress — a look that perfectly encapsulated ladylike glamour with its houndstooth-print bustier and draped black skirt. Meanwhile, Marion Cotillard chose a no-frills white pre-Fall 2013 leather trench coat, only to spice things up with a pair of neon cap-toe pumps. And Liv Tyler went with an all-black — and navy — approach in a Dior bustier. Now that you've got the fashion facts, who gets your best-dressed vote in the Dior showdown?

Christian Dior Resort 2014

On Saturday evening, Christian Dior presented its Resort 2014 collection in Monaco.

On Saturday evening, Christian Dior presented its Resort 2014 collection in Monaco. The principality has held special meaning for the house since 1956, when actress Grace Kelly wore a Dior gown to celebrate her engagement to Prince Rainier of Monaco.

The return to Monaco was both an homage to the house's heritage and also a signal of a new era in how (and where) the label stages its Resort collection, with plans to always take the collection abroad going forward. But this wasn't the only poignant moment to come with Saturday's showing. For the first time, Raf Simons incorporated lace into his pieces, working the fabric into everything from sheer blouses and fitted crop tops to modified coatdresses and relaxed sheaths. "I thought it's kind of old and too romantic and too tragic. And suddenly I thought, it's a challenge to make it modern and edgy and kind of futuristic," he said.

A look at the complete collection, plus our review, here in the gallery.

Poll

Billboard Music Awards: Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus is on a hot streak, with the Billboard Music Awards as her latest reason to stun in something equal parts sexy and rocker chick.

Miley Cyrus is on a hot streak, with the Billboard Music Awards as her latest reason to stun in something equal parts sexy and rocker chick. Her black-and-white Balmain jumpsuit featured an intricately woven texture and some serious all-over checkerboard print — which meant she needed only a pair of Givenchy heels and a bold red lip to finish. Perhaps it's the bleached pixie cut, being named No. 1 on Maxim's annual Hot 100 list, a little leftover inspiration from her Met Gala getup, or all of the above — either way, Miley knows how to make a red carpet statement these days. Do you agree?

Poll

Billboard Music Awards: Madonna

On the heels of her Met Gala appearance, Madonna is at it again at the Billboard Music Awards.

On the heels of her Met Gala appearance, Madonna is at it again at the Billboard Music Awards. The (first) Queen of Pop received the top touring artist award, and while she may have skipped the red carpet, her Givenchy Haute Couture outfit was certainly worth the wait. Dressed in some recognizable pieces courtesy of the aforementioned Met Gala, Madonna took the stage in a black fishnet dress, topped with a texturized, cropped, and feather-collared bomber jacket. But the look didn't end there. She wore it all cinched with a grommet-embellished wide belt and finished with thigh-high stockings, which were fastened with a garter belt. As for the last bit of accessories? She also rocked her monogrammed padlock choker, statement sunglasses, and black platform pumps. Did she nail it?

Celebrity Style

Who Wore What: Billboard Music Awards

The 2013 Billboard Music Awards red carpet was red hot, with Selena Gomez leading the pack.

The 2013 Billboard Music Awards red carpet was red hot, with Selena Gomez leading the pack. The singer was one of the first to arrive — and she did so in an eye-catching neon-infused Atelier Versace gown from the label's Spring '13 collection. Also in the mix? Jennifer Lopez, Taylor Swift, Chloë Moretz, Hayden Panettiere, and a very sexy Jennifer Morrison. Of course, that's just the tip of the iceberg. Click through to see who wore what at the Billboard Music Awards.

— Additional reporting by Melody Nazarian

Celebrity Style

Billboard Music Awards: Madonna

On the heels of her Met Gala appearance, Madonna is at it again at the Billboard Music Awards.

On the heels of her Met Gala appearance, Madonna is at it again at the Billboard Music Awards. The (first) Queen of Pop received the top touring artist award, and while she may have skipped the red carpet, her Givenchy Haute Couture outfit was certainly worth the wait. Dressed in some recognizable pieces courtesy of the aforementioned Met Gala, Madonna took the stage in a black fishnet dress, topped with a texturized, cropped, and feather-collared bomber jacket. But the look didn't end there. She wore it all cinched with a grommet-embellished wide belt and finished with thigh-high stockings, which were fastened with a garter belt. As for the last bit of accessories? She also rocked her monogrammed padlock choker, statement sunglasses, and black platform pumps. Did she nail it?

Celebrity Style

Billboard Music Awards: Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift is no stranger to wearing Zuhair Murad's sexy dresses (the proof here and here), and tonight's Billboard Music Awards reminded us why we love when she does.

Taylor Swift is no stranger to wearing Zuhair Murad's sexy dresses (the proof here and here), and tonight's Billboard Music Awards reminded us why we love when she does. Her electric blue Pre-Fall 2013 look showed off the singer's long legs, but the skin-baring elements didn't stop there. The long-sleeved mini also gave way to sheer insets and symmetrical cutouts on both the neckline and back. Swift polished it all off with a knuckle ring, pewter-colored earrings and heels, and sultry eye makeup to match. Are you into it?

Poll

Billboard Music Awards: Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus is on a hot streak, with the Billboard Music Awards as her latest reason to stun in something equal parts sexy and rocker chick.

Miley Cyrus is on a hot streak, with the Billboard Music Awards as her latest reason to stun in something equal parts sexy and rocker chick. Her black-and-white Balmain jumpsuit featured an intricately woven texture and some serious all-over checkerboard print — which meant she needed only a pair of Givenchy heels and a bold red lip to finish. Perhaps it's the bleached pixie cut, being named No. 1 on Maxim's annual Hot 100 list, a little leftover inspiration from her Met Gala getup, or all of the above — either way, Miley knows how to make a red carpet statement these days. Do you agree?

Cruise 2014

Christian Dior Resort 2014

On Saturday evening, Christian Dior presented its Resort 2014 collection in Monaco.

On Saturday evening, Christian Dior presented its Resort 2014 collection in Monaco. The principality has held special meaning for the house since 1956, when actress Grace Kelly wore a Dior gown to celebrate her engagement to Prince Rainier of Monaco.

The return to Monaco was both an homage to the house's heritage and also a signal of a new era in how (and where) the label stages its Resort collection, with plans to always take the collection abroad going forward. But this wasn't the only poignant moment to come with Saturday's showing. For the first time, Raf Simons incorporated lace into his pieces, working the fabric into everything from sheer blouses and fitted crop tops to modified coatdresses and relaxed sheaths. "I thought it's kind of old and too romantic and too tragic. And suddenly I thought, it's a challenge to make it modern and edgy and kind of futuristic," he said.

A look at the complete collection, plus our review, here in the gallery.

Wedding

The Ultimate Guide to Spring '14 Bridal Trends

The bridal trends for Spring 2014 leave room to try something a bit different.

The bridal trends for Spring 2014 leave room to try something a bit different. While gorgeous white gowns and traditional strapless silhouettes certainly made their customary appearance, it wasn't all run of the mill. Vera Wang surprised with black-and-white looks, finished with dramatic black opera-length gloves. Oscar de la Renta dipped into the color wheel for a true "something blue," Reem Acra turned out cocktail minis topped with veiled umbrellas, and Carolina Herrera debuted a sexier kind of wedding-day ensemble (think deep V-front necklines). For inspiration aplenty — and a closer look at what exactly the Spring '14 bridal forecast means for your own wedding-dress search — click on.

Bridal Trend Breakdown:

Shopping

J.Crew and CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Team Up Again (Updated!)

Come May 22, you can shop three J.Crew-exclusive collections, courtesy of 2012 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund winner Greg Chait, of The Elder Statesman, and runners-up Tabitha Simmons and Jennifer Meyer.

Come May 22, you can shop three J.Crew-exclusive collections, courtesy of 2012 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund winner Greg Chait, of The Elder Statesman, and runners-up Tabitha Simmons and Jennifer Meyer. This latest collaboration trifecta marks the third year in a row that J.Crew and the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund have teamed up to show off an emerging lineup of American designers, and to celebrate the trend, shoppers are getting a little treat.

Currently, you can sign up on jcrew.com to receive a link to snag the limited-edition collections on May 21 — a whole day earlier. In the meantime, here's your first look at the respective collections.

summer

Doutzen Kroes Sizzles in the New H&M High Summer Campaign

Thank goodness it's Friday, because Doutzen Kroes's latest turn as the face of H&M's High Summer campaign makes us want to be gallivanting on some far-off shore, too.

Thank goodness it's Friday, because Doutzen Kroes's latest turn as the face of H&M's High Summer campaign makes us want to be gallivanting on some far-off shore, too. Sure, Beyoncé may have heated things up in the brand's Summer kickoff campaign, but this Terry Richardson-shot spread is all sunshine, perfectly tousled beach hair, and of course, beach-bound essentials — with Tulum, Mexico, as the backdrop. Inside, Kroes shows off a cool mix of easy cover-ups, belted and accented with statement jewelry, and truth be told, there's really not much more you need than that. A look at the H&M High Summer campaign, as well as our favorite picks from the collection, here.

Poll

The Versus Versace Party Draws an A-List Crowd — Who's Best Dressed?

When Donatella Versace throws a party, a star-studded crowd will attend.

When Donatella Versace throws a party, a star-studded crowd will attend. Case in point: the designer heralded in a new era of Versus Versace and debuted JW Anderson's first capsule collection for the brand on Wednesday night; and to celebrate, Jaime King, Hayden Panettiere, and Heidi Klum dressed up for the occasion. While both Panettiere and Klum selected dresses from Versace's Spring '13 collection, King took the head-to-toe Versus route. And, in doing so, the Hart of Dixie star showed off a much more edged-up, safety pin-included look. Three different plays on evening glamour (with an apropos Versace rocker-girl twist), and only one can be named "best dressed." Vote for your favorite below!