Lilac is the New Black

Bebe is one of my favorite labels, known more for its logo, rhinestone-studded tees than its actual line of apparel. Their clothes are undeniably feminine and sexy without looking unclassy or cheap. Their price tag is fairly moderate amongst the sea of designer labels, making shop-a-holics like myself, quite happy. Yesterday’s shopping adventure at the Pier Mall in Atlantic City was the first time I saw Bebe’s new collection of Fall 2008, their window display of pulling me in. It is perhaps my favorite so far, centering their color palette around black, palatinate purple, and lovely lilacs (all are my favorite colours!). Plaids, chiffon, ruffles, frills, grecian looks, and asymmetrical necklines were all present, bringing fall’s trends of school-girl chic as well as Bebe’s signature sexy aesthetic.

Here are my favourites, available at any Bebe boutiques nationwide, or online at bebe.com.

This was the first piece in the window display that immediately drew me in. I love love love kimono sleeves, and the addition of sequin embellisments makes me love it more! This asymmetrical dress (currently one of fall’s hottest trends), with cutting edge design and simplicity with glam, will indeed, make you feel red carpet ready. It drapes beautifully around the boat-neck neckline as well as the sleeve. The lack of one sleeve gives the dress a grecian look. This is definitely on the top of my shoping list! (This top is actually quite similar to a taupe Missoni worn by Leighton Meester!)

This sheer sweater with studded straps gives your look a sexy edge with a plunging V neck. Such a shoulder baring top encouraged by sleeves that open below the straps expose the top of the arm. Layer this sweater over a strapless camisole, skinny jeans, and a pair of sky-high heels for the perfect ensemble for a night out!

This mixed lace ruffle chiffon top is another must-have on my shopping list. The soft, mock collar gives way to layers of pretty lace and ruffles that run down to the bodice without being too stuffy or overwhelming – it is just enough for that feminine and flirty look. I really love the sheer balloon sleeves; it is the balancing factor of the details, giving the blouse a contrasting airy feel. The jeweled buttons and smocked waist are proof that the classic button-up has been Bebe-fied. Sweet, saucy, and sophisticated is what I love in a top! Keep in mind that when wearing this top, it is best to pull your hair back in a simple updo, whether it be a pony or a chignon; an updo along with a mock collar elongates the neck and shows off the jawline!

I love this long-sleeved wool shrug in tailored grey by Bebe. It is an alternative to the sometimes boring cardigan, perfect for layering over a dress or pairing with a camisole and skinny jeans. This is definitely a staple for the busy girl – you can throw it on over a plain cami and add basic jewelry on a rushed morning and still walk out the door looking elegant and fabulous!

This Satin Trimmed V Neck Blouson Dress in Sweet Lilac is short and sexy.

I love any top with batwing sleeves – this dress pulls it off impeccably with the lightweight fabric and draping, allowing the dress movement as you walk. A plunging V neck in both the back and front is trimmed with a rich, satin band, revealing skin gracefully without being obnoxiously trashy. The satin belt adds a touch of classic femininity. Finish the look with thin, silver hoops and bangles to balance the striking geometric, throw on a pair of strappy silver heels and voilà! You’re ready for a night out in the city!

Pretty in polka dots, this sheer, collarless top is yet another classic twist on the blouse that has been Bebe-fied. This sweet top with delicate fluttler sleeves in sweet lilac is accented with vertical ruffles that run down the bodice starting from the shoulder line, and adorned with jeweled buttons. This is yet another blouse that has been Bebe-fied, the evidence in the smocked waist. Pull your hair back into a loose bun or a pony: we want to see those ruffles! Pair with fitted jeans, preferably skinny jeans, with flats or peep-toe pumps for that flirty and sophisticated look! For something more professional, this top is available in white.

This Shirred, Shortsleeve Belted Sweater is definitely a must-have basic that needs to be in your closet. The high neckline gives the sweater an elegant feel while elongating the neck sans the stuffiness of a turtleneck. The longer length of the sleeve in comparison to regular short sleeves further enhances that sophisticated look, the shirring giving the otherwise plain top extra dimension. Choosing to cinch the waist with the thin, black patent belt not only slims the waist, but adds new texture to the piece. For a put-together, classy-chic outfit, once again, pull the hair into a neat chignon and tease the crown, taking extra care in smoothing the hair with product. Pair the look with dark skinny jeans or pants and patent pumps (to match the belt). As for accessories, less is more! Go for statement earrings, preferrably a dangling pair to show off the jawline and neck. Add a few bracelets and bangles, or a thin cuff, and grab a clutch – you are ready to go!

xoxo.