My Life Styled :: #CosmopolitanChic

Vegas- you either love it or you hate it. But what many people fail to realize is that the wild partying and stories akin to The Hangover only make up one side of the city. I am most definitely not a party girl. I get nervous in crowds, lightheaded after one sip of a well made drink and, quite frankly, can't stand it when strange men try to talk to me. I had always just accepted the fact that Vegas would never be a place for me.

That was until I spoke with someone who was just like me and LOVED their trip to Vegas. I realized that Vegas has so much more to offer than a quick weekend you wish you could forget. Think spas, shopping, amazing restaurants and unique shows. This was a relief because I must confess that I have planned my "Vegas Trip" wardrobe in my head way too many times to not actually go and enjoy it myself. It's all about versatile pieces that you can transition from one activity to the next.

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas seems like a great place to stay. I would be able to enjoy everything on my check list without leaving the hotel! I could keep things casual and relaxing with one of their many restaurants or their in-house spa. I could also choose from three pool facilities, awesome modern art exhibits, and shopping. The unique New York-style towers are located right off of the strip- perfect in case I decide to venture out.

So in honor of all of those daydreams and imagined trips, I have styled a few looks that would be perfect for a quick weekend at The Cosmopolitan.

Day 1 :: Boulevard Pool + Secret Pizza

#ComsopolitanChic :: Boulevard Pool by mefrench featuring a black fedora hat

To kick off my weekend, I would begin by relaxing poolside with a great book. Of the three pools available at The Cosmopolitan, The Boulevard Pool sounded just right. With an atmosphere inspired by an upscale yacht club, cabanas and a full menu at the Overlook Grill, I could settle in for hours on end. I would want to keep things sleek and chic in a bold colored bikini, aviators and a hat. After I have had my fill of glamour and luxury, I would throw on this ruched maxi dress and set off in search of Secret Pizza, a standing-room only pizza shop hidden within The Cosmopolitan!

Day 1:: P3 Studio

#CosmopolitanChic :: P3 Studio by mefrench featuring vintage wedge shoes

While I might not be interested in the traditional Vegas nightlife, I was thrilled to find such a unique experience for an evening out. The glass walls and intimate setting allow you to really connect with the artist at work inside the studio. You even have the option of stepping inside and interacting with the artist! There is a rotation of artists-in residence so you can do your research and plan around the artist you want to see. P3 studio is also partnered with a non-profit, Art Production Fund. I couldn't think of a cooler way to spend my night!

Day 2 :: Sahra Spa & Hammam + Va Bene Caffe + The Shops at The Cosmopolitan

#CosmopolitanChic :: Sahra Spa, Va Bene Caffe, The Shops by mefrench featuring seychelles shoes

My second day would begin with (surprise, surprise) more relaxing at the Sahra Spa and Hammam. The spa boasts 50,000 square feet of pure relaxation and over 28 treatment rooms that draw from the serenity of the desert. I would then throw on a simple yet chic ensemble like the one shown above. The clean silhouette and fairly neutral color palette make for a fresh look that is suitable for all of my activities of the day. My next stop would be Va Bene Caffe. This little gem offers fresh pastries, paninis, salad and gelato. Let's be honest, who doesn't want to do a little re-toxing after a spa session? I would then burn off those calories with some retail therapy in The Shop at the Cosmopolitan. 

Day 2 :: Drinks and a Show

#CosmopolitanChic :: Drinks & A show by mefrench featuring a pink dress

If you can't let loose on your last night in Vegas, then when can you? My first stop of the evening would be the Vesper Bar (named after Bond's infamous drink). This outfit channels that powerful Bond girl with the sexy back, red lip and sleek heels. After I've had my fill with about half a drink, Golan and I would make our way to The Chelsea to catch a killer show. Fingers crossed for Bruno Mars still being around!

With the holidays approaching and the semester coming to an end, all I can think about is a good vacation. How would you plan your trip to Vegas? Let me know in the comments! Also, be sure to check out The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas for some stellar deals and a unique experience. Stay updated by following the Fashionably M. French Facebook page as well as my Twitter and Instagram! Feel free to get in touch- I'd love to hear from you! x

I was asked by the people at Vegas.com if I would show how I would style my ideal weekend in Vegas at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. That being said, all opinions and suggestions are my own. Thanks!

Style Inspiration :: Anthropologie August '14 Catalog

Each month I get a gem of a catalog in my mailbox courtesy of Anthropologie. With the seasons traditionally being in limbo during this time (even though the temperatures still feel very much like the thick of summer), most people are at a loss as far as how to dress. The fresh picks in the August 2014 Anthropologie catalog are the perfect solution. With light layers and a bold color palette that hints at fall, Anthropologie nails the transition for both casual looks and work appropriate ensembles. Below are some of my favorite items from the catalog. I will be keeping my eye on these while I do back-to-school shopping. If you are interested in any of these pieces simply click the image to be taken to Anthropologie.com (no affiliate links used). Look through the entire August 2014 catalog here and share your favorite looks in the comments!

While not all of these items are necessarily reasonably priced for a college student, there are some great investment pieces to be found. Each item that I have bought from Anthropologie in the past has lasted years and was definitely worth the price. Stay tuned for more back-to-school posts to come. Be sure to follow the Fashionably M. French Facebook page for updates. You can find me on Twitter and Instagram as well- give me a follow and get in touch. I'd love to hear from you! x

Note :: this is not a sponsored post

CollegeFashionista: Spring '14

As many of you might know, I spent my semester interning for CollegeFashionista, a college fashion trend reporting website. I really enjoyed my time with those lovely ladies and will be continuing my internship through the summer months as well! In case you missed any of my posts, I have compiled all of them below. If you see a post that you would like to read, simply click the link below the photo and you will be taken to the article. 

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Please let me know what you think! Leave a comment below with any suggestions or tips. Also, I'd love to hear if you have been inspired by any of the Fashionsta/os that I have featured on CollegeFashionista.com. Post any photos of your style on Instagram[@mefrench] or Twitter [@meagan_french] and tag me. Thanks for reading! x

Spring Styling: Flamingo Shift

One of my favorite pieces in my spring wardrobe is the Elornis shift dress from Anthropologie. The vibrant colors and bold pattern make it the perfect statement dress. Here I have shown you how to dress it down for everyday wear or dress it up for a night out. While Anthropologie no longer carries this dress, I have managed to find it on Ebay here!

Day

The cherry blossoms have finally bloomed! Jean Jacket: Old Navy (from about six years ago)

Wide Brim Hat: Gap

Watch: Anne Klein

Shoes: Madden Girl

Night

Spice things up by removing the jean jacket, adding a belt with accessories and swapping the sandals for a pair of heels in a bold color.

Belt: Banana Republic | Ring: James Avery | Pave silver bracelet: Michael Kors

Turquoise ring: Gift | Turquoise bracelet: Gift

Heels: Jason Wu for Target

Earrings: Gift

Let me know what you think in the comments! How would you wear these ensembles? How do you transition from day to night? I'd love to hear from you and read any suggestions you might have for future posts. Please subscribe via Bloglovin' in the sidebar and like the Fashionably M. French Facebook page. Thanks for reading! x

A Model's Perspective: Victoria Monette

As a model trying to break into the industry, I am constantly searching the web for advice and tips from successful models. I thought "Why not ask my own questions of someone I know in the industry?" So I did just that. Victoria Monette has launched herself into both local and global markets as a model. Victoria and I attended the same high school in Texas and she has served as a personal inspiration ever since. Although she has traveled the world and has worked for the likes of Zac Posen, MissVogue and Oscar De La Renta, she remains humble, kind and rooted in her faith. Victoria is currently signed with seven agencies worldwide including Stars Model Management, RED Model Management, Leni's Models, Page.713, Major Models and London Mgt Group. She took time out of her bustling schedule to answer some of my questions about the latest on her career and gave some tips and tricks she has for aspiring models like myself. 

Photo credit - Victoria Monette via Instagram [@victoriamonette]

Fashionably M.French: How long have you been modeling? Victoria: I got signed when I was 15 and did local modeling jobs between Houston & Dallas. But I was also in high school and wanted to have the whole high school experience. It wasn't until after I graduated and started attending LSU that my modeling career really took off. I was on a plane to head to photo shoots and runway shows more than I was in my classes so I was having to work with my professors via email to get all of my notes and assignments. I had to make my modeling schedule work around my school schedule. My goal was to attend my dream school & still do what I love. I am proud to say that I accomplished just that my first year with all A's & B's. I prayed about it and decided to pursue modeling full time! : ) So full time I have been modeling almost 3 years! Its definitely been an amazing journey with so many opportunities that I never thought I would be getting to experience in this industry.

Fashionably M.French: You began your modeling career in Texas. What valuable advice and experiences did you receive at Page.713 that have helped you in your career?

Victoria:Page.713 taught me all the basics of becoming a prepared model that a client wants to work with. From bringing the essential necessities to every job to being easy to work with on set! Your impression that you make to every client is very important as that is what sticks with them.

Fashionably M.French : Would you say there was one booking that launched your career to the next level?
Victoria : Honestly, I think just staying true to who I am and letting God go in front of me on this journey! He has gotten me signed in the 7 markets that I am signed in & I think that is what has launched my career to the next level. Being able to travel the world, book jobs and gain new modeling experiences is a blessing : )

Photo credit: Victoria Monette via Instagram
[@victoriamonette]

Fashionably M.French : What was it like walking for Zac Posen?

Victoria : Zac Posen is such a sweet designer & so talented! I walked for him in Fashion Houston as well as in San Francisco and both times were truly magical! He is such a joy to work with & to be one of the models to make his beautiful dresses come to life on the runway is an honor.

Fashionably M.French : Do you prefer runway or print work?

Victoria : Honestly, I love both! They are each so different and that's what I love.

Fashionably M.French : Who is your favorite client to work with?

Victoria : My favorite client to work with would have to be BCBG Max Azria and also Francescas Collections! They are both like family to me.

Fashionably M.French : What is the best experience you have had so far?

Victoria : That is a hard one to pick because I feel so blessed to be experiencing all of this! If I had to choose one I would have to say doing the Fashion Week circuits in NY, London, & Paris!

Photo credit: Victoria Monette via Instagram
[@victoriamonette]

Fashionably M.French : The worst experience?

Victoria : Thankfully, I have not had a bad experience yet & I hope to keep it that way! LOL : )

Fashionably M.French : Do you have a dream booking?

Victoria : My dream booking is to book an editorial campaign for Chanel, Valentino, or Calvin Klein!

Fashionably M.French : You are currently working in Australia. How are you liking it? Is it your favorite country to work in so far?

Victoria : I am LOVING Australia! It definitely is a favorite market of mine to work in and I am already planning my next trip here. But I also do love working in London, Paris, & NYC! : )

Photo credit: Victoria Monette via Instagram
{@victoriamonette]

Fashionably M.French : What are some of your favorite backstage moments from VAMFF? Victoria : Some of my favorite backstage moments from VAMFF would have to be all of the different hair and make-up changes for the shows I did. Its truly so awesome what all the make-up & hair pro teams can come up with! Also, walking the runway with the likes of Montana Cox & Ajak Deng was really cool too!

Fashionably M.French : How does the backstage experience differ from that of NYFW or other shows you have done?
Victoria: It's honestly equally as crazy backstage! NYFW is more fast paced though since you can be in 5-7 shows or more a day.

Photo credit: Victoria Monette via Instagram
[@victoriamonette]

Fashionably M.French : Do you have any tricks that you use on set to loosen up?

Victoria : Being on set can be crazy with all the people involved to make the shoot a success and of course being the model that they booked, all eyes are on you to make the vision come to life so just taking deep breaths and focusing are truly key!

Fashionably M.French : What are your casting essentials?

Victoria : My casting essentials are my iPad which is my portfolio, my comp-cards, snacks, a bottle of water, a great pair of heels, a brush & my Clinique chubby stick lip balm : ) & of course a great casting outfit!

Photo credit: Victoria Monette via Instagram
[@victoriamonette]

Fashionably M.French : Can you break down your beauty regiment and fitness routine?

Victoria : My beauty regime consists of drinking plenty of water. Also, I love to use my Estee Lauder splash away cleanser and my Clinique 7 day scrub along with my Clinique moisturizing gel for after! My workout routine consists of cardio, pilates, yoga and I love to ride my bike around the lake in my neighborhood when I am home! I am a very athletic person so I love anything that is outdoors or gets my heart pumping!

Fashionably M.French : What are your style must-haves?

Victoria : My style must haves are a leather jacket or blazer, a great handbag that can go with anything, & definitely an awesome pair of heels!

Fashionably M.French : What are your makeup essentials?

Photo credit: Victoria Monette via Instagram
[@victoriamonette]

Victoria : My make-up essentials would have to be my Clinique mascara, liquid eyeliner, my favorite Urban Decay eye shadow, and a great bold lip color!

Fashionably M.French : Do you have a go-to "miracle" product?

Victoria : My go to miracle product would have to be my Bliss Oxygen Facial. Its important to be good to your skin & take great care of it!

Fashionably M.French : What are some tips and tricks for aspiring models?

Victoria : I think for aspiring models the best thing is to study & do their research. Watch all the latest runway shows, and look at all the fashion campaigns in the magazines. Also, the modeling industry is tough so it is important to be confident in who you are & to not take constructive criticism to heart but to learn from it.

Photo credit: Victoria Monette via Instagram [@victoriamonette]

Victoria isn't planning on slowing down any time soon. She will be heading back to Sydney to finish out her trip to Australia with Mercedes Benz Fashion Week: Australia. Keep an eye out for print work that Victoria has done while in Australia as well. You can follow her journey either on her Twitter [ @victoriamonette] or her Instagram [@VictoriaMonette]. It is wonderful to find people who have made the journey from a small town in Texas to bigger and brighter places across the globe. Keep up the good work, Miss Monette! I, for one, cannot wait to see what she does next.

If you would like to see more content like this be sure to share with your friends and subscribe! This is the sort of content I will be putting out more regularly and I look forward to expanding my blog. Also, if you have any tips, comments or questions be sure to leave them in the comments below. Thanks for reading! x

** Editorial sections of this post are the thoughts and opinions of Fashionably M.French and no compensation was received. All photos were pulled from the Instagram of Victoria Monette with consent. Fashionably M.French does not own any of the photos used in this post. **

ReFashion: Taylor Swift

This morning while perusing my social media apps for the latest news and fashion, I found this gem on Taylor Swift's instagram. I was first drawn to the serene chilly beach in the photo. After pulling myself out of the clouds, I took a look at Miss Swift's outfit of the day. She always has such an effortless, classic and chic style! I decided to recreate the look and make it my own using pieces that I currently own as well as pieces I plan to add to my wardrobe soon.

If you are interested in any of the pieces featured, click the photo and it will link you to a website where the item is available for purchase. 

Let me know what you think. How would you wear this look? I'd love to hear from you! Please share with your friends and subscribe by clicking the banner in the sidebar {Bloglovin'}! x

Vintage Re-imagined: Virginia Slims and Bananas Foster

Hello There! Welcome to a new series (one which I am very excited about) - Vintage Re-imagined! I will be taking vintage pieces that I either find in local shops or I already own and I will make them my own. This time around I used a couple of pieces I already own. Each of these vintage items belonged to my great grandmother, Rue Dishongh, otherwise known as Mama Rue. Let's start from the top...

Hat: Target  Hat Pin: Vintage from a shop in Harrogate Necklace: Vintage courtesy of Mama Rue Lipstick: BareEscentuals in Red Zin

Skirt: Vintage Neiman Marcus Wool Skirt courtesy of Mama Rue Shoes: Aldo

Belt: DKNY Charm: Vintage courtesy of Mama Rue

And here is the wonderful woman who continues to be an inspiration to me even though she is no longer with us. “Elegance comes from being as beautiful inside as outside.” 

― Coco Chanel

Stay tuned for another Vintage Re-imagined post! I am going to really love these... Let me know if you have any good flea market/vintage finds! Also, please let me know if you are in the Denver area and know of any lovely little vintage shops. A HUGE thanks to the lovely Golan for being my photographer. If you'd like to see more of these please subscribe in the sidebar! x

A Little Monday Inspiration

Today I received my Anthropologie November Lookbook in the mail. It was not only full of wonderful pieces that I would love to get my hands on (as usual) but it also contained some wonderfully inspiring images. If I were to accomplish nothing else in my modeling career other than an Anthro campaign, I would still be one happy girl. 

I want those gold puppies in the corner... 

Because everyone needs a dining table in the middle of a field...right? Right.

What has inspired you so far this month? Let me know in the comments! Stay tuned for an exciting new series and subscribe in the sidebar! x

September Issue: Marie Claire

Hello There! First off, I'd like to apologize for my little unexpected hiatus. Sometimes life gets in the way of plans. However, during that time I was able to plan out future fashion posts - Hurrah! This week the focus will be on Marie Claire's 2013 September Issue. There were so many wonderful pieces that I fell in love with. Most - if not all - were above my price range. My main objective was to find more affordable options to take the place of the pricey but beautiful original pieces.Here are the items I loved in Marie Claire's September Issue...



If you are interested in any of the items shown, simply click the picture in the slideshow and you will be taken to a web page where the item is available for purchase! These are all things that I look forward to integrating into my wardrobe. I also am looking forward to bringing out old pieces from my wardrobe and wearing them again!

 Which trends are you going to try out this fall? Let me know in the comments - I'd love to hear from you! For more September Issue posts coming soon, please subscribe in the side bar! x

All of the links in this post that lead to outside web pages are there in order to help you find the wonderful items I have mentioned! I have not been compensated and all opinions are my own. x

September Issue: Lucky Mag

Hello There! September is one of my favorite months for many reasons - the crisp morning air, the start of a new semester (which usually equals a more productive me!), and of course a fall wardrobe revamp! September is when the fashion industry puts out their best and brightest and never falls short on inspiration for the coming season. Naturally, I wanted to take my favorite "September Issue" glossies and share the bits and bobs that inspired me from each of them! This week I'll be delving into the Lucky Magazine September Issue. I took the trends that Lucky Magazine presented and found my own versions that I will be wearing this fall! Check them out below (If you are interested in any of the pieces shown, simply click the item and it will take to you to the link!)

Are you just as excited as I am about these trends? How will you be wearing them? Let me know in the comments - I'd love to hear from you! For more September Issue posts, please subscribe in the sidebar! x

Blumarine Fall 2013 RTW

Hello There! Recently I have been looking through Vogue's online runway catalogue which covers all of the major runway shows for each season. I was investigating the trends for Fall 2013 and I came across this gem of a collection - Blumarine Fall '13 RTW

Photos courtesy of Vogue Runway

Like so many other collections I've seen this fall, there were pieces I loved and pieces I didn't care for. What I have pictured above are some of my favorite looks from Blumarine's Fall 2013 RTW collection. I was drawn to the idea of a design that felt both structured and whimsical. Each look seems to have a certain flow and the detail work in each piece is astonishing. Each look is unique and memorable, from the skirt pant combos, to the darker, edgier pieces pictured in the bottom row, to the fun and flirty look of the dresses pictured in the top row. What more could a girl ask for?

As far as "ready to wear", again, there were some pieces that I personally wouldn't be brave enough to wear out on the streets. However, there were a few exceptional pieces that I would proudly don in the proper setting. This collection was a knockout in my book and I am looking forward to seeing what Blumarine comes out with next. You can find the entire Fall 2013 RTW collection here on Vogue's runway page!

What are your thoughts on the collection? Do you have a favorite from Fall '13? Stay tuned for my September Issue Saturdays - where I will post every Saturday in the month of September regarding my favorite glossy's September Issue! xx

A Fresh Take on Fall | Trend Alert

Usually when you think of fall trends, you think of heavy knits and rich colors. However, this fall we are getting a fresh color addition - Rose 

Seen in the form of coats on the Celine runway, a sleek dress at Carven, or a classic Chanel number, blush pink has also not surprisingly made it's way into the clothing lines of retailers such as LOFT and H&M. I personally love this pastel revolution for fall. It allows me to continue to use all of the lovely fresh pieces from summer that I'm not ready to let go of. In the past, I have always found the transition from summer into fall a bit of a tricky one to master but with this reintroduction of pastel combinations in weightier fabrics, this years transition should be a bit smoother. I've noticed that rose pink is not only a constant across the runways and shopping racks, it is also often being paired with similarly muted neutrals. This fall, ladies have a multitude of options and attitudes - try pairing your pink with a warmer neutral such as army green or rust to keep it sweet and delicate, or you can go classy with a bit of edge with understated black accessories. Either can easily be dressed up or down! 

I will definitely be taking full advantage of this trend - What outfits do you have in mind?

 Thanks for stopping by! Come back and see my fall outfit of the day posts (look for the rose pink)! 

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