Young Women Like Taylor Swift's Style and 1950s Looks, According to the Fashion Survey

Last week, I published a fashion survey, which 187 women answered.  Questions ranged from celebrity fashion crushes to style preferences, to shopping budget amounts.  Wondering how much you spend on clothing in comparison to other women your age?  Keep reading.

Most of the women (80%) were between the ages of 18-30, as shown here:

The women were most likely to be single or in a relationship, and less likely to be married:

Shopping Decisions

When it came to favorite stores at which to shop, some participants told me that they didn't shop at any of the stores listed.  However, this question wasn't mandatory, so the only people who answered it would be ones who did, in fact, frequent at least one of the stores.  Respondents were allowed to choose as many stores as they wanted.

Despite H&M's bad rep for "clothing that falls apart," it's by far the most popular store among the female respondents.  Stores that got the fewest votes (not featured on this graph) include Saks Off 5th (Whyyyy?  It's the best!), Bloomingdale's, NastyGal, Bluefly, and Revolve Clothing.

Tops were the favorite item to buy, with dresses in close second.  Less popular items to purchase included handbags, skirts and jeans. (Who has fun buying jeans?  WHO SELECTED THIS ONE?!)

As for shopping priorities, looking attractive and being comfortable were close to tied for first place (with comfort earning one more vote than attractiveness.)  Other high priorities when shopping or picking out an outfit include dressing to flatter your body shape, looking classy, looking feminine, and appearing thinner.

The lowest priorities when dressing or shopping were looking androgynous, appearing shorter, appearing curvier, or dressing to change how old you look (be it older or younger.)

Fashion Trends

Most of the respondents said they were fairly apathetic towards trends, or only cared a little, but many of them had a good idea of what they considered on-trend or dated.  Items considered trendy were ankle boots, high waisted jeans, crop tops, and boyfriend jeans:

From left to right, Top: Free People ($20), Sam Edelman ($135), Bottom: One Teaspoon ($97), American Apparel ($78)

As for what's not on-trend, the fewest votes went to flare jeans, normcore, bodycon and platform shoes.  This doesn't mean these trends are all necessarily out of style, though.  Respondents were asked to vote on what was in trend, and these were just the ones with the fewer votes.  In addition, fashion magazines have been announcing the return of flare jeans for a few months now.  The low votes for flare jeans could mean that flare jeans haven't been recognized by the majority of people as something that's on-trend, whereas something that's been popular for a while- like bodycon or normcore--might actually be done.  So these trends could be on their way out, or up-and-coming.  You decide!

From left to right, Top: Lulu's ($56), Jessica Simpson ($49), Bottom: New Balance ($50), Truffle Collection ($54)  

Now, for a change of pace.  We've all had moments where we wanted to go to an event solely because we'd be able to dress up, and we've also had moments where nobody could pry us out of our pajama pants.  It turns out that more respondents preferred dressing up to wearing PJs, but not by much:

Fashion Spend

When it comes to money, you may be surprised to see that most of the young women responding spent less than $50 each month on clothes.  We so often compare ourselves to rich fashion bloggers and Instagram models being paid to advertise luxury items that we forget how most people don't have anywhere near this kind of money to spend on their wardrobe.

Moreover, when it comes to buying a singular cocktail dress for a specific event, most respondents say they would try to spend between $40-$80.  Although clothing at this price point is almost never featured in fashion magazines or fashion blogs, it's actually all over the Internet and local malls, and often, you can even get a higher-end dress at this price point if you know how to search the sale racks carefully.

Now for a stat that makes me, a shopping addict, feel really bad about myself: 66% of respondents said it wouldn't be hard for them to stop shopping for three months.  How did you get that willpower, and can I have some?



Fashion Inspiration

Betty Barclay dresses, 1950s

The respondents chose the 1950s, 1990s, 1920s and 1960s respectively, as the best decades for fashion.  The worst decades for fashion (or at least the ones with the fewest responses) were respectively the 1930s (well, big surprise), 1980s, 1970s and 1940s.

I guess I can't really blame you.

When deciding for whom they are dressing, most respondents said that aside from their own preferences, they dressed to impress their significant others, or if single, their potential significant others or dates.  Only 2% of respondents focused on the opinions of their boss and coworkers,
although decent amounts of respondents cared about their friends' opinions (16%) and people in general (16%) the most.  25% of respondents denied caring about anyone's opinion at all except for their own.

Work it.

Despite the fact that very few respondents said they got their fashion inspiration from fashion blogs and articles, 47% said that they wished fashion blogs showed clothing they could actually afford, and 24% wished that fashion blogs and magazines displayed clothing that was practical for everyday wear.

It Follows.

When it came to celebrity fashion inspiration, the largest percentage of respondents (27%) didn't like the styles of any of the female celebrities listed.  Of the ones listed, Taylor Swift and Kate Middleton's feminine, classic styles were the most popular, while Kim Kardashian, Kylie Jenner and Nicki Minaj's styles were the least popular.  Something tells me we're still going to be seeing a lot of them for years to come, no matter how much everyone is sick of them.  Oh well.

10 New Years' Dresses for Every Style Personality

New Years' Eve is right around the corner, and that means it's last call to buy a dress for the big day without paying for express shipping!  While we've come to associate New Years' outfits with a certain vibe (sparkly, glitzy, semi-formal) there are still so many variations within this style to match your personality.  Will you be opting for a sleek bodycon number, or a sweet full-skirted frock?  Maybe you won't even be wearing a dress at all!  Check out this handy dandy list that identifies your style personality (if you don't know what yours is, check out all of them!) and matches you with your perfect New Years' dress.

1.) The Girly Girl

From left to right: Modcloth ($89), ASOS ($153)

This is your style personality if you love lace, tulle, and all things girly.  When asked if you want to look beautiful or sexy, your answer is "beautiful" every single time (not that you can't be both!)  You don't do "tough girl" looks or anything androgynous.  The more floral, and the more lace, the better.  If this is you, then the flirty white Modcloth dress or the glitzy pink prom dress from ASOS will perfectly reflect your feminine style.

2.) The Bombshell

From left to right: Nastygal ($68), ASOS ($102)

You're all about sex appeal.  That doesn't mean you show everything at once, or that you look like a Greatglam.com model, only that you go for sexy before you go for any other vibe, be it cute, tough, artsy, you name it.  You care about flattering your figure, accentuating your best features, and having heads turn when you walk into a room.  If you're a bombshell, then try a drapy and plunging gunmetal dress from Nastygal, or a metallic bandage dress from ASOS.

3.) The Classic Beauty

From left to right: Calvin Klein ($158),  Anthropologie ($258)

You're all about elegance and understated femininity--most likely, you admire the style of Kate Middleton and live in high-quality, long-lasting and effortlessly beautiful pieces that will never go out of style.  If this sounds like you, you can incorporate the glitz of New Years' without sacrificing your love of elegant and simple clothing.  Try a silver sequin sheath dress from Calvin Klein, or a lacy black number from Anthropologie.

4.) The Androgynous Girl

From left to right: Urban Outfitters ($39), ASOS ($69)

You see no reason why a New Years' Eve party must require a dress--and of course, it doesn't!  If you love menswear, sneakers, loafers, and other pieces that blur the gender lines, then this could be your style personality.  If so, then try a metallic suit jacket or blazer as opposed to a dress- then pair with some sleek pants and menswear flats.

5.) The Showstopper

From left to right: Lulu's ($55), Motel ($71)

People may describe you as "dramatic", and hey, maybe they're right.  Nothing wrong with wanting to be the center of attention!  You dress to impress, and you're always the first one to pop up when folks start taking pictures.  You're the life of the party, and you seek to express your vibrant personality with your clothes.  If this is you, then ditch the silver, black and gold color motifs everyone else will be wearing and go for a deep green or electric blue.

6.) The '20s Flapper

From left to right: Modcloth ($89), Modcloth ($189)

Not many people nowadays have closets full of '20s-inspired styles, but many people are going to '20s themed New Years parties this year!  Not surprisingly, Modcloth.com is the place to go if you really want the flapper look, and they have varying price points to fit almost everyone's budget.

6.) The Modern Minimalist

From left to right: Urban Outfitters ($44), AQUA ($88)

New Years' can be a scary time for a minimalistic girl--all the sparkles, sequins and metallics are the antithesis to a capsule wardrobe.  That said, nobody decreed that you must wear a glittery piece on New Years.  In fact, you'll probably see more solid black dresses than you expected when you show up at your party of choice.  If looking refined and simple is your plan--not sticking out and stealing the show--then opt for an LBD in an updated silhouette (provided you don't already have an awesome one.)

7.) The Retro Babe

From left to right: Tatyana ($122), Pinup Girl Clothing ($189)

You're all about styles that look like they came out of Mad Men.  You probably have fantastic curves (or are at least great at faking them) and love showing them off with cinched waists, wiggle skirts and full-skirted, dramatic prom dresses.  For an off-beat vibe, try a vibrant blue sequin dress from Tatyana (formerly Bettie Page Clothing) or a soft metallic lurex dress from Pinup Girl Clothing (also available in plus size.)

8.) The Grunge Girl

From left to right: NaaNaa ($44), NastyGal ($88)

You aim to look like you don't care about looking cute, while simultaneously looking cute.  This can be a bit tricky, but most likely you already know how to do this.  You're all about rips, leather, and a tough girl aura.  A little bit Goth and a little bit biker, you know how to steal the spotlight, without looking like you wanted it in the first place.  A sleek, black lace-up mini dress will do the trick- preferably paired with some ripped black tights or thigh-highs and some chunky shoes.

9.) The Dancing Queen

From left to right: Boohoo ($31), ASOS ($117)

Disco is back!  You got excited when the '70s came back in, and you can't wait to show off your glitzy, groovy looks, as well as (perhaps?) a far-out feathered hairstyle.  Of course, you will be wearing thick-heeled platform shoes on New Years (duh) but what of your dress?  Aim for something sleek, drapy and metallic-straight out of your favorite decade.

10.) The Frugalista

Okay, don't kill me for using the term "frugalista," because I hate it just as much as you do, but it was the best I could do.  You're on a budget, but you don't want your fashion sense to suffer.  While other people insist you can "only get good quality" if you shop at department stores, you know better than anyone that you can find good bang for your buck elsewhere without spending an arm and a leg.  That said, if you don't want to spend much, you should steer clear from lace--which easily looks cheap at a low price point!  Instead, opt for simple black mesh or silver sequins.

French Connection Is Taking 40% Off All Styles: Here Are Some of the Best Pieces

French Connection has always been one of my favorite brands, although it tends to be a bit pricy for me.  That's where sales come in.  French Connection may be a little steep, but it has codes and sales pretty much all the time.  This particular sale gives you 40% off all their styles.  This includes sale items.  I decided to go through and find the most covet-worthy items that you can now get at 40% off.  (And by the way, the discount code is 40NY16.)

1.) Lunar Sparkle Sequin Maxi Dress ($178, down from $298)

You may not have that many excuses to wear a floor-length sequin gown, but perhaps you have a winter wedding coming up, or a formal New Years event.  Either way, this dress is too gorg not to at least include on the list.

2.) Sunbeamer high neck dress ($173, down from $288)

If the previous dress was too dramatic for you, this is a safer sequin option, perfect for New Years.  I also have a soft spot in my heart for it, because it's one of the dresses featured in the all-too-addictive mobile game, Covet Fashion.

3.) Later Ribbed Roll Neck Top ($42, down from $68)

A warm but non-bulky turtleneck is a great thing to have in your wardrobe for when it gets cold.  This particular piece would look great tucked into a skirt or high-waisted jeans.

4.)  Polly Plains Adjustable Strap Cami ($23, down from $38)

Affordable and goes-with-everything?  Sounds good to me.  This cami is also adjustable, which means you don't need to worry about it digging into your armpits or showing too much boob.

5.) Polka Plains Layer Dress ($95, down from $158)

This dress incorporates olive green and the crop top illusion silhouette, both very on-trend.  This could be dressed up or down, with bare legs or thick tights, boots or pumps.

6.) Meena Open Toe Heels ($53, down from $89, down from $145)

Mules were super popular during spring and summer of 2015, and I see no reason that they won't continue to be cool next year.  They're a comfortable, modern and innovative high heel option that can be worn with almost anything.  This particular pair utilizes colorblocking and a slightly slimmer heel for a sleek overall look.

7.) Animal Lace Jersey Dress ($77, down from $129, down from $168)

Want to incorporate animal prints without looking like a flashy, rich old lady?  This simple party dress could be your solution.  A subtle, mesh animal print yoke is cute and girly, without being too gaudy.  The rest of the dress is universally flattering and simple.

8.) Lucky Lace Layered Dress ($71, down from $119, down from $168)

While this dress is about as midi as you can get, the sheer hemline prevents it from shortening the legs or making you look stumpy (although it can be hard to tell when all models are de-facto gorgeous, thin and tall.)  The lace panels and lightweight fabric make this dress a perfect transition item that you can wear throughout winter and into spring (maybe even summer!).

9.) Dark Angel Biker Jacket ($299, down from $498)

Despite the name, this jacket doesn't look like it came straight out of Sons of Anarchy.  The studs and eyelets on the jacket give it a bad-girl vibe without looking cartoonish.  This jacket is sure to be a showstopper.  It is on the pricy side, but with 40% off, you're at least saving almost as much as you're spending!

10.) Belted Faux Fur Collar Tulip Coat ($177, down from $295)

For those readers seeking a more classic, feminine, and flattering coat silhouette, this one could be for you.  Personally, I wish the skinny waist belt was a thicker sash (looks far more current) but this sophisticated coat could look stylish for many years as it is.

10 Ways To Dress '70s Without Looking Crazy

Obligatory: Since this is a new blog, I'm looking for insights and opinions about fashion in general to make sure I'm delivering good content!  If you have time, take this quick 16-question survey about fashion, totally anonymous.  Now, on with the post.

Look at any fashion blog or magazine and it's obvious: the '70s are back, and they aren't going anywhere.  At first I'll admit I wasn't particularly fond of '70s revival--the wide leg pants reminded me of my frayed-bottom middle school American Eagle jeans, the neutral shades of cognac and camel looked boring, and the patchwork reminded me of the free applique vest that comes with "Mom Jeans" on SNL.

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But I came around eventually.  '70s styles don't have to make you look like you came out of Dr. Funke's 100% Natural Good-Time Family Band Solution.  They don't even always need to look obviously '70s.  Here are some ways to incorporate this groovy decade into your closet without looking stupid.

1.) Button-front A-line skirts

From left to right: Topshop ($55), Anthropologie ($118) and Saks 5th Avenue ($329)

A-line skirts are universally flattering, and button-front A-line skirts are very '70s.  Suede, denim and corduroy are all materials that can give this classic skirt a vintage vibe without making you look like you stepped off the Scooby Doo bus.  For extra '70s punch, try a patterned floral one, or a patchwork one.

2.) Flare Jeans

From left to right: Urban Outfitters ($64), Lulu's ($95), Anthropologie ($198)

Most likely, if you're apprehensive about the '70s you're also apprehensive about flare jeans, but I insist that with a high waist, these won't make you look like you just left a Linkin Park concert in 2003.  High waisted flares in blue denim or cognac can be leg lengthening and slimming.  Pair with platform shoes or high heels to avoid getting the hems all muddy and gross (or invest in a tailor.)

3.) Clogs

From left to right: ASOS ($35), American Apparel ($135), Free People ($128)

Clogs aren't exactly the sexiest-sounding shoe, but paired with the right attire (like flare jeans) they can look pretty cool.  Try brown, wood-heeled clogs with a mini skirt, jeans or even a maxi skirt.  Midi skirts may look a bit too frumpy and clunky with these though, so perhaps avoid unless you're 5'11" with legs up to your armpits.

4.) Cognac leather jackets

From left to right: Charlotte Russe ($42), Adrianna Papell ($139), Bernardo ($249)

This one isn't even explicitly '70s, so there's really nothing to fear.  A fitted cognac leather moto jacket (or vegan leather, which I actually prefer) will give your look a slight '70s edge without going overboard into Farrah Fawcett or Foxy Brown territory.

5.) '70s prints

From left to right: Zara ($20), ASOS ($65), Millie Mackintosh  ($162)

I'm not a big print person (I prefer solids) but if you do like prints, try a paisley or hippie-floral pattern on a classically cut blouse or skirt.  Paisley and small florals are safe enough to wear even after '70s revival is over, although big groovy flowers may be out by next year.

6.) Turtlenecks

From left to right: ASOS ($26), J Crew ($70), Alexander Wang ($195)

Given the cold weather, this should be a go-to regardless of what's in style.  A simple ribbed, fitted turtleneck looks sexy with high-waisted pants, keeps you warm, and accentuates a long neck.

7.) Striped, cropped halter tops

From left to right: ASOS ($9), Motel ($13), Urban Outfitters ($29)

While this is probably one of the riskiest item on the list (because first of all, it's freaking winter, and second of all, not everyone wants to wear crop tops) it's definitely evocative of the '70s.  You may have to wait around for spring and summer, but paired with some high waisted shorts or flares, these tops are super cute.  Not to mention, they're so cheap that I couldn't find an example over $30.

8.) Crochet 

From left to right: ASOS ($27), Zara ($40), White Sand ($224)

Crochet has been stylish for a while now, and it's always been one of my favorite materials (is crochet a material? IDK.)  Crochet tends to be more popular in the warmer months, but a long sleeve blouse with crochet insets will work perfectly with the cold weather.  Avoid crochet ponchos, because those are what Maury always puts on his makeover guests.

9.) Platform shoes

From left to right: ASOS ($56), NastyGal ($98), Free People ($168)

The key to the '70s platform is to make sure the heel is thick.  A stiletto shoe with a giant clunky hoof-like platform in the front makes you look like a stripper who walked out of 2008 (what?  Someone had to say it.)  A flashy metallic or patterned platform is straight-up disco and will definitely catch the eye, but for a safer bet, try a suede or leather neutral toned platform shoe.  Pair with thick ribbed tights and an A-line skirt on cold days.

10.) Felt hats

From left to right: Leith ($26), ASOS ($36), Lack of Color ($109) 

In San Francisco, hats just don't work for me because the wind blows them off.  Plus, I have a freakishly small head (#tinybrainhumblebrag) and hats just don't fit me.  But personal difficulties aside, I think felt hats are adorable.  They're also great for shielding your face from the sun (because yes, there's still sun in the winter and yes, you can still get sun damage from it.)

15 Items in Pantone's 2016 Colors of the Year That You Can Wear Now

According to Fashion Times, Pantone has released the two colors of 2016 (that's right, two) and they are Serenity and Rose Quartz.

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Serenity is a light blue with a hint of periwinkle, whereas Rose Quartz is a slightly muted pastel pink.  From what I can gather, Rose Quartz appears to be a lot more universally flattering than Serenity, which would probably make me look dead if I put it directly next to my face (and it's a shame, because it's a gorgeous color.)  But...that's what accessories are for!

While you can expect clothing in 2016 to show up in these two shades, why wait?  I've collected some items that are currently for sale, in the colors of the year.  With these, you can be the first person in your office to show up wearing a Serenity top before everyone else starts doing it and you look like a tool:

1.) Lulu's Puttin' on the Ritz Periwinkle Bodycon Dress, $44

While this Lulu's dress isn't for the shy, it's definitely for the fashion-forward.  I don't know who keeps claiming bodycon is out, because this silhouette is absolutely adorable, especially in such a timid (but still somehow statement-making shade).  As of right now, it's sold out in every size except L, but Lulu's restocks regularly.

2.) ASOS PICTURE Pointed High Heels, $53 (down from $76)

I'm not sure if these really "count" as rose quartz because they're metallic, but I don't know what else to call this color because it isn't quite warm enough to be a rose gold.  While these are dressier shoes, they could easily be paired with white jeans (as they are in the photo) or even boyfriend jeans for the ultimate clash of masculine-feminine.  Can't say they look comfortable, but I guess that's why we have Advil.

3.) SALVATORE FERRAGAMO Light Blue Perforated Leather 'Pacau' Slip-On Sneakers, $369 (down from $525)

I'll be honest, these aren't really my style at all, but I can admire them objectively.  Slip-on sneakers seem to be popular this season, and these particular ones look like they would carry someone nicely through spring and summer.  Also, while they're not exactly cheap, they're still significantly cheaper than they used to be, so if they're in your budget, consider snatching these bad boys up.

4.) J.O.A Under the Feather Jacket, $188

Can't get more statement-making than this.  This jacket is bold but feminine, perfect with an otherwise simple and slim-fitting ensemble.  It could be a bit out-there, but then again, fashion is about taking risks.  Nastygal clothing tends to go on sale and stay in stock for a while, so perhaps this is one to stalk for a few months.

5.) Shoshanna Sahara Lace Top Dress, $95 (Down from $395)

This dress may have a leeeettle bit too much going on, but the fact that it's all one color (and the fact that it would pair adorably with simple stud earrings and nude ankle-strap heels) means it's a perfect go-to for a wedding guest dress.  The waist-cinching is universally flattering, although the near-midi hem may make shorter-legged women like myself look short and stumpy.  Also- can we just talk about that deal?  Getting a $400 dress for $100 is really something you can't pass up.  (Sizes are already running out, so get yours now.)

6.) Alice + Olivia Solange Crop Top and Skirt ($198 each)

Alice + Olivia is one of those "If I were rich I would buy everything from this brand" brands.  For me, at least.  This set is so gorgeous and in such an understated, flattering color, but of course it's a little pricy, nearly $400 for the two pieces combined.  That said, this is likely to go on sale at some point, perhaps after the holidays, so stay tuned.

7.) Kling Cherish the Thought Coat, $118 (down from $169)

This coat is a bit too retro for my tastes, but I have to admire its ability to incorporate both Serenity and Rose Quartz in one piece.

8.) Topshop Tailored Belted Coat, $160

I need this.  While I'm not normally a fan of light-colored jackets (because of stains and whatnot) I'd risk a few scuffs for this beauty.  San Francisco is a sea of black jackets (something of which I'm guilty too), so mixing it up with this piece would be fun, especially in spring and summer.  It's feminine, it's classic, and it's still on-trend.  Topshop tends to sell out quickly, so hurry!

9.) Modcloth Charter School Cardigan in Rose, $39

If you're a classic, preppy, or retro girl on a budget, this one is for you.  I've actually owned this cardigan before in other colors, and I can tell you it runs small, so if you do buy this, go a size up (or even two).  That said, this cardigan is easy on your wallet, super-soft, and the rose color is flattering and classic.

10.) Converse sky blue unisex sneaker, $35 (down from $55)

If you aren't particularly adventurous about incorporating these colors, you could always start with a pretty classic, versatile sneaker in the Serenity shade.

11.) Lulu's Burning Desire Light Blue Dress, $58

If I had to pick one dress to describe my style, it would probably be this.  This dress is currently out of stock but will be back in stock in early February, so get on the waiting list!  While this blue isn't exactly the same as Serenity (Serenity has more purple tones, whereas this has a tinge of green) I think it's close enough.

12.) Le Salty Label Allure Grecian Maxi Dress, $108

While I cringe thinking of the stains that would befall this dress if I wore it anywhere, it's still a gorgeous piece.  The leg slit is sexy, while the color is innocent.  Just try not to wear it to a wedding--too close to white--or to a red wine tasting.

13.) ASOS textured skater skirt, $30 (down from $51)

Full, textured skater skirts are very statement-making and feminine, and perfect when paired with almost any type of footwear.  This skirt is perfect for daytime parties and weekends.

14.) Monrow pale pink crop top, $55, (down from $112)

I have a major weakness for crop tops, and this one appears to be part of a matching set, therefore I'm doubly craving it.  That said, this skirt appears to have an under-layer short enough for my five-year-old sister.  Therefore, I'm going to say this is a piece better bought separately.

15.) Asilio sky high top and skirt set, $124 (down from $176)

I don't care if people say bandage is out--the men certainly never complained about it.  This co-ord set is perfect for Vegas or clubbing, but simple enough so that it doesn't look flashy.  The cups are lightly padded, so you don't need to wear a bra.  (Nothing ruins a cute top like visible bra straps.)