Ask An Expert: 2014's Trends With Staying Power

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Leslie Christen is one of Orange County's "most sought-after personal stylists." A lifelong lover of fashion who spent years as a personal stylist and costume designer in the fashion and entertainment industries, Leslie is also the founder of the region's leading independent styling company: Leslie Christen | LifeStyling. Leslie's stylish and educational website, LeslieChristen.com, offers great tips and showcases "cutting-edge trends and images on the latest in designer fashions."

Leslie Christen
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(310) 866-1026
www.lesliechristenblog.com

From menswear-inspired clothing to a fresh pair of kicks, we asked the experts which trends that emerged in 2014 will outlast the rest. Personal Stylist and OC Expert Leslie Christen shares with us the top trends of the year that have lasting power.

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Oxfords

Slightly geek but full on chic, every closet needs a nod to masculine styling and a pair of Oxfords are the perfect route to go. Many women avoid wearing Oxford shoes because they're not sure that they can pull off the look. Surprisingly, Oxfords can be worn by women who prefer the casual look of jeans, or women who prefer the girliness of dresses. For the most part, Oxfords are extremely versatile and should have immense staying power for seasons to come. As the expert suggests, Oxfords are one of the biggest menswear-inspired trends of 2014 that are practical enough to wear all year round. Oxfords can be dressed up or dressed down, they look good with almost any attire ranging from shirt dresses to boyfriend jeans and despite it being a utilitarian look, they come in a variety of styles and colors.

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The Cape

A Cape can be the superhero to a year-round wardrobe. Of course it's all about the styling, but once you master this tricky trend, you'll want one for every season. In the fall opt for wool or cashmere version with side slits for your arms and a closure at the neck. For spring cozy up with a knit Blanket Cape, the look reads relaxed yet still on trend. As the the expert suggests, the cape is one of the biggest outerwear statements of 2014 that can be worn all year round. The cape has the same appeal as a trench coat in that in can be worn from spring to fall and still provide warmth and protection for unsuspecting chilly weather.

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Sneakers

Sneakers are here to stay. This expert leads clients to the Vans, Converse-type styles and of course anything from Celine. Sometimes you just don't want to wear heels and you're sick of sandals - so why not throw on a pair of sneakers? They look great with a structured pencil skirt and cashmere sweater, rolled-up boyfriend jeans and a button up or even a floral dress. Think of them as the ideal summer-to-fall transition sneaker and keep them stocked in your closet all year round. Sneakers where a huge hit for 2014 and have lasting power due to their versatility and ability to provide style and comfort for the feet. Dependable sneakers are worth having, and more than one pair will come in handy for the new year and beyond.

Barbara Akowuah is a freelance journalist based in Southern California. As a fashion examiner who is privy to style, Barbara loves to write about fashion and how it relates to the Los Angeles scene. Barbara loves to dish out the latest trends, style tips, and inside scoop. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.