With the summer temperatures rising and the popularity of The Sexy “50 Shades of Grey” books sweeping the nation; it is time for us girls to reevaluate our sleepwear. Out with the boring and in with the sexy!! But do we have to sacrifice comfort for beauty? The answer is no.

We all see pics in catalogues and in glossy magazines of young, skinny, gorgeous models wearing lacy, crocheted, sequinned get-ups. Or should we call them contraptions? They might look spectacular in magazines but in real life, it is just not worth the pain and discomfort. So this summer we suggest you find your inner sex goddess just like Anastasia in 50 Shades and wear a sexy “boyfriend shirt” to bed. You will feel cozy, desirable and incredibly sexy. And we bet your very own Christian Grey will love every single inch of you!

This one by Frederick's of Hollywood is super sexy and cut for a woman's shape. You cannot beat the 14.99 sale price. Buy one in every color!!

Victoria Secret says "Steal his style in the bedroom" with this sexy version for $49.50.

On trend with all the floral prints we are seeing this season is this floral sleepshirt. Super comfy and flirty. And on sale at Nordstroms for $38!

For the lady looking for "the finer things in life" choose this Nancy Meyer sleepshirt from her St Tropez Collection. The softness of premium fabrics and the beauty of exquisite detailing make it worth the $145 splurge.

These are all great options to be sexy and practical when it is time to hit the sheets.

Sweet dreams!

Now that the summer is in full swing, all of us fashion focused females need to figure out a way to dress and feel comfy during hot summer days and nights. We never EVER want to compromise looking fabulous but wearing silks and other fabrics can turn a ‘Duo” into a sweaty “Don’t” very quickly. So what’s a girl to do you ask? Well, the answer is simple. Embrace the wonderful, semi sheer fabric of crochet and you are ready to take on the temperature outside and still feel chic and cool like the ocean breezes.

Crochet is made from loops of yarn, created using a single hook. And though it might sound simple, it is a very delicate process and we are in awe of a “crochetist” (probably not a real word) and the patience it takes for them to produce such beautiful clothing.

We love, love, love how this sexy trend has found it’s way into every part of a girl’s wardrobe. From dresses, pants, vests, shirts, shorts, bikinis, coverups, and even handbags, crochet is everywhere! Being the “it” knit of the season, it is constantly popping up on runways, and in all the high fashion magazines. Because crochet lets you have a glimpse of skin while still being partially covered up, it is a trend being embraced by everyone, from the most modest to the most confident. Check out our DUOs and DONTS below and make sure to go get yourself some crochet!

These first 3 crochet tops are DUOS. They are effortless, yet flirty!

Vanessa is sporting a DON'T here. This is a way too trendy option and not particular practical unless you happen to be going to a hippie type music festival in 95 degree weather!

Crochet in color can be a DUO when done right like this Missoni stunner.

DON'T go color crochet crazy. This reminds us of quilts we used in the 70's. A heavy, sweaty, dizzying DON'T!

Kourtney's Tibi crochet dress and little Mason all dressed up and dapper are two definite DUOS!

The idea of a crochet romper is wonderful, except when it is big and baggy like this version. DON'T let your crochet wear you!

And finally, we have Leann wearing this Emilio Pucci crochet maxi at her post wedding brunch last year. What are your thought? Is this a DUO or DON'T? Write your comments and let us know what you think!!

Check out our fun segment on WPIX…

http://www.wpix.com/news/morningnews/wpix-11-weeks-0070612,0,3986154.story

Unless you have been living under a rock, you have definitely noticed that the theme of “housewives” has swept the nation. On television shows, movies, books and magazines, housewives have taken center stage and they are enjoying the spotlight. However, they are not always portrayed in the most favorable fashion and as housewives ourselves, we feel it is important to represent our special ladies club in a sexy but appropriate way.

Last week , we met with Lisa Mateo from WPIX Channel 11, and helped host a fashion show of sexy and appropriate swimwear. Our beautiful models proved that our theory was true and that housewives from all over could be fabulous, sexy AND tasteful! Let’s take a look at our day at the beach….

Our first model is sexy Sharon. Sharon is wearing a bold, red bikini by Vix. This season it is all about color so don’t be afraid to embrace the color trend. This suit can be purchased at Bloomingdales or vixswimwear.com. Also crochet fabrics are really hot right now, so we paired this bikini with a gold crochet wrap. We believe balance is important so when wearing a sexy top like this one it is important to have some coverage on the bottom.

Our next housewife is pretty Pam. Pam is wearing a one shoulder silhouette by Jantzen and it can be purcahsed at Everything But Water. This style is on trend right now and absolutely stunning. Paired with sunkissed skin, it is beautiful and tasteful for a day at the beach with the kids.

Our next model is lovely Lauren. Lauren is wearing a kelly green one piece by Hermanny by Vix. This bathing suit has a low neckline with a peek-a-boo feature. It’s fun and flirty but still provides the appropriate coverage. This piece can be purchased at Macys.

Also, don’t forget to add fun accessories to your beach look. Turquoise and coral jewelry are always great ways to add a pop of color. And printed beach totes, giant sunglasses and even floppy hats are great ways to enhance your overall ensemble. But most importantly, always remember to wear a big confident smile and a good sunscreen!

So here we are in the beginning of July. And the weather is sweltering. But for those of you (and we’re guessing MOST of you) when you hear the words sweltering and hot these days, the weather is not what comes first into your mind. What comes to mind is…(ok, all together now girls) CHRISTIAN GREY! And the most riveting, can’t put it down ’til I’m done books…. The Fifty Shades of Grey trilogy by E.L. James.

There have been many fun discussions about the book and we’ve all heard and hopefully experienced first-hand how how these books can spice up your own love life. But how about your wardrobe? This week, here at THESTYLEDUO blog, we’d like to show you how you can spice up your own wardrobe as well as your partner’s with some key selections. We are not talking whips and chains here, (as interesting as that may be) but simply sexy, sophisticated and surprisingly practical pieces that can put the WOW in your wardrobe. Thanks to Anastasia and Christian for inspiring these fantastic fashions…..

BUSINESS CHIC DUOs & DON’TS

DUO

"Behind the solid sandstone desk, a very attractive, groomed, blonde young woman smiles pleasantly at me. She's wearing the sharperst charcoal suit jacket and white shirt I have ever see. She looks immaculate"... "Excuse me one moment, Miss Steele.”

"She arches her eyebrow slightly as I stand self-consciously before her. I am beginning to wish I’d borrowed one of Kate’s formal blazers rather than wear my navy blue jacket. I have made an effort and worn my one and only skirt, my sensible brown knee-length boots and a blue sweater. For me, this is smart. I tuck one of the escaped tendrils of my hair behind my ear as I pretend she doesn’t intimidate me." - Anastasia got the guy but this was a major DON'T!!

FIRST DATE DUO and DON’T

SEXY and CHIC “Shaking my head and endeavoring to quell my nerves, I decide on the plum-colored sheath dress for this evening. It’s demure and vaguely business-like – after all, I am negotiating a contract. I slip on the plum-colored stilettos that match the dress, and I’m ready by six-thirty." This Two Birds Convertible jersey dress is sold at Nordstroms.

YSL Tributes in Magenta/Plum

TOO REVEALING skip this one and go get your groove on with the other plum dress.

DRESS TO IMPRESS

"You look lovely, Anastasia. This halter-neck suits you, and I get to stroke your back, feel your beautiful skin." - Win him over in this Catherine Malandrino number.

"Me, I’m more of a Converse and t-shirt kind of girl, but I’m wearing my most flattering jeans." Now don't get us wrong, this look could be a perfect "DUO" for a cozy night in, or movie night...but if you are looking to knock his socks off go for something more feminine and sensual.

DASHING DATE DUO!!!!

"He's dressed in his customary white linen shirt, black jeans, black tie, and black jacket. His hair is tousled as ever. I sigh. Of course he looks gorgeous." - This Banana Republic shirt is on sale for $48.99!

Ok, let’s face it. Christian Grey is always a DUO and never a DON’T.

And if that isn’t enough to get your fashion senses excited, according to the Los Angeles times “Products based on the “Fifty Shades” phenomenon will hit stores between August and December this year. The merchandise will include apparel, stationery items, hosiery, lingerie and accessories.” We’ll keep you all posted! Until then, enjoy the summer HEAT!!

It is absolutely undeniable. Color is so big this season that even those girls who only had a black wardrobe are finally throwing in their towel (which was probably black). Everyone is embracing the bold hues of the season. Colored denim, colorblock dresses and candy colored shoes are popping up on magazines covers, runways, celebrities, and on ladies across the world! Even men are drawn to the color trend. And why not. With season after season of black and neutrals ruling the fashion world, color has finally taken center stage and WOW the attention it is receiving.

With so many different ways to incorporate color into a wardrobe, we have decided to focus on one clothing item that is not usually seen in different colors… the blazer. First of all, let us say how much we have always loved to throw a good blazer into the mix of an outfit. And now in a variety of colors from all over the rainbow, this fashion piece is even that much more exciting as an outfit completer.

Try pairing a cute red blazer with your sheath black dress for work. It is classy with an edge and screams “I am a confident woman!” Or pair a coral blazer with white pants for a summer lunch with the ladies. We also like putting blazers atop flirty sundresses, jeans and short shorts with high wedges. Blazers are even popular in bright prints and florals and we are major fans of this “ not as hard as it seems to achieve” look! Almost anything goes this season regarding blazers and color so don’t be afraid to throw in your black towel too!!!

DUOS & DON’TS

This hot pink blazer on Olivia Palermo looks so fabulous and paired with black leather shorts, this is a Double DUO for us. We love everything about this look that even the green satin shoes which would normally be a Don’t, somehow seem to work with the ensemble.

A bright gold blazer paired with skinny denim looks sexy and fun and is a Definite Duo. The untucked white shirt and bold gold chain are accents to an already amazing look.

We always love Jessica Alba’s style and fashion choices. She is not afraid to take risks and she always seems to get it right. This watermelon colored blazer is paired perfectly with turquoise denim creating a colorblock feel that is so modern and fresh. Her ivory scarf and large black tote complete the Definite Duo look.

There are so many great ways to wear colored blazers that we have more Duos than don’ts this week . What guy out there wouldn’t do a double take seeing a girl in a get up like this. A grape colored blazer paired unexpectedly with denim cutoffs, a graphic print tee edgy jewelry and little booties. Nothing about this outfit is ordinary and we are drawn to it’s cool vibe.

Oh, so we finally found a don’t. A classic blazer can be paired with something sexy but when it is this revealing it is just one or TWO big Don’ts!!! ENOUGH SAID!!

So anyone who knows us, knows how much we love the summertime. The season evokes such special feelings and memories of our childhood….unforgettable times at camp, wild weekends down at the shore, the smell of ban de soleil , and the yummy sensation of sand beneath our toes and even in our hair. Ahhh-BLISS! And who could forget those night time runs to Dairy Queen for their pure , simple, soft serve vanilla custard- so magically delicious by itself or wonderfully indulgent with a sprinkling of colored jimmies or a bright red cherry.

Now let’s take these thoughts of ice cream and relate it to summertime fashion. Just like licking that vanilla custard, we always felt it was such a treat to slip into white summertime clothes. Bright white Gauze sundresses, peasant skirts, short shorts and flip flops were an instant pick me up. The whiter the better!!! And this was especially exciting because back in those days our fashion rules limited us to wearing white for only three months a year. Paired with a golden tan, nothing made us glow as much on the outside as well as on the inside than our white summer wardrobe. Of course, our rules have changed and we wear white right through the winter(assuming the fabric and style is appropriate) but the easy breezy white clothing of summer is our favorite!

White worn alone is simple and pure. But add a pop of color with shoes , jewelry or a bag, and just like with those good old colored jimmies, you are in for a real WOW!

DUOS AND DONT’S

Click on image to enlarge.

P.S. FASHION TIP: Always carry a couple of baby wipes with you when you are donning a white ensemble. Throw a few in a plastic baggie and leave in your purse. It will come in handy if you spill or slip. They work like magic!

So it is not exactly June 21st yet BUT as far as we are concerned  it  is  “Summertime, Summertime, Sum, Sum, Summertime!!”  And nothing says summer better than an easy breezy maxi dress.  If you haven’t embraced the maxi yet, we implore you to do just that right now.  It doesn’t matter what body type you have, you are going to thank us later.  We say the shorter you are the longer the maxi but throw on a really cool, super high wedge.  If you are one of those lucky tall ladies (we certainly are not!) than keep yours a little shorter and wear with a metallic flat sandal or jeweled flip flop.  Color is everywhere this season, so why not find the pastel or corally hue that makes you glow.  Of course, a simple black or white maxi always looks chic paired with funky and chunky jewelry.  If you are feeling extra trendy this month opt for a patterned or floral creation.  And if you aren’t convinced just yet, check out some bargain ones that you can invest in while not breaking the bank….just yet!  Once you realize how comfortable and sexy these maxis make you feel, you very well might be tempted to go for the splurge! 

Duos and Don’ts (you’ve heard of dos and don’ts) Here at TheStyleDuo, we have Duos and Don’ts.  Take a look…..

Duo and A Major Don’t!

This nude Rachel Zoe Collection maxi dress looks so fresh and springy paired with coral nails and a super high wedge.  We are really digging the edgy sheered bottom.  Top it with a super cute snakeskin clutch like Jamie here and you are ready for a night on the town.

Stay away from maxis that are too over the top and won’t really fit into your daily life.  Not sure if this tie-dyed number is meant to be sexy or not.  Beautiful girl, but the dress, shoes, and bag are all wrong!

Duo and Don’t  Jennifer Lawrence

This white crocheted Candela dress is our fave maxi dress of all.  She gets an A+ in style here.  Not sure why she is carrying two bags but love them both! Perfect shoes, bun, aviators, jeweled flat.  Love it, love her!

A little disappointed with the black maxi.  Yes, her figure is flawless but the dress is still too clingy for our taste.  And the length seems a little short, especially with those ballet flats.  Love the bag though (and the bun).  Something about a maxi and a messy bun.  Makes your inner bohemian really shine through!