Prepare to pucker up – citrus hues are headed to a closet near you. Seen on red carpets and runways everywhere, these vibrant colors add a little something sweet to summer outfits. Whether it’s a small splash (think a blood-orange clutch) or huge burst (imagine lime pants paired with a lemon jacket), one thing’s for sure: this season, the trendy will be getting plenty of vitamin C.

Our How to Wear Citrus: Women’s Fresh-Picked Style Boutique opens Thursday, May 9, at 11AM ET.

Making their debut to the forefront of men’s fashion in the 17^th century, cuff links became the upscale alternative to self-tie cuff strings. They’re chic. They’re crafted from precious metals. And then they’re hand-painted or jewel-encrusted for an extra luxe look. While these fasteners all serve the same purpose, there is some disparity in the ways they attach, so it’s important to know which backing will work best for you.

Bullet Back
Quite possibly the most common cuff link, the bullet back has a capsule-shaped end that rotates 360 degrees. The range of motion makes this type easy to fasten, thus securing its status as a guy’s go-to.

Whale Back
With a curved post and swivel-tail end, it’s clear why this variety got its name. Similar to the bullet back, the whale-back fastener swivels up to 180 degrees for easy slip-in styling.

Fixed Back
As the name implies, the fixed back is comprised of one solid piece of metal. Compared to its counterparts, this link is the most rigid and makes for a very tight cuff.

Chain Link
Regarded as the first cuff link in its class, the chain link serves as a more formal choice. The two decorative ends are often reversible and connected by a short chain, offering both easy motion and a dose of serious style.

By Jillian Hudon, Staff Writer

Want the lowdown on fabrics and more? Follow our What Are You (Really) Wearing? column every Tuesday.

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Date night is officially on the calendar. Now, the all-important decision that trumps all else – what to wear? For me, dresses are the ready-in-five, instant-polish pieces that win every time. (Seriously, who doesn’t love a girl in a killer dress?) Here are three versatile styles for your spring and summer outings.

The First Date
Pick a body-conscious style in a solid shade. This taupe version is slimming while also being super comfortable (thank you, jersey). Bonus? The diamond-embossed pattern is essentially wrinkle-repellant, so if you’re doing the classic dinner and a movie – read: a lot of sitting – you’ll still look polished when the time comes to say good night. Consider ruching, banding, and ribbing a date-night dress’s best friends.

The Wedding Date
No need to compete for Best Dressed (the bride’s got that covered), but you can definitely come close. Show off your shape in a figure-flattering, not-too-clingy style, and stay away anything too overtly trendy. This dress strikes that just-right balance. Romantic in a pastel shade of light pink. Flirty with shoulder-baring straps. Totally tasteful at knee length. The solid color and classic shape also allow for endless styling options. Fascinator, anyone?

The Dancing Date
Go for something fun and flirty. Short skirts are a must for ease of movement and for putting those stellar moves – and stems – on display. Fitted on the bottom and swingy on top, this punchy blue halter dress brings together the best of both worlds. Add high-heeled sandals and you’re ready to hit the dance floor in style.

Our Nicole Miller Boutique opens Tuesday, May 7, at 11AM ET.

You’ve snagged a new pair of skinnies. Worn them four days this week. Then realized people were starting to catch on. Solution? Cuff or roll them. New pair of jeans, in a flash (especially when paired with new shoes).

Here’s how to perfect the cuff and roll, what to pair each with, and more.

By Joanna Berliner, Editor

Have a fit tip you want answered? Check our The Fitting Room column every Monday, or tweet us at @ruelala. 

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Best known for playing Alice Cullen in the Twilight series, Ashley Greene has moved into her role as fierce fashionista on the red carpet. (The proof is in her 2012 Met Gala getup.) With silver accents and a stunningly draped Donna Karan dress, Ms. Greene stepped out as a stylish force to be reckoned with. So in honor of this year’s ball, we’re remaking her stunning look. Here’s how:

Our Walk the Red Carpet: Met Gala–Inspired Style Boutique opens Monday, May 6, at 11AM ET.

Anyone who’s ever worn a dress can agree on one thing: it’s pretty much the most comfortable piece of clothing on the planet. Not only does it simplify the whole getting-dressed thing, but it adds an air of polish without actually requiring any extra primping. What you may not know? There are a few defining factors that make each dress fit for a specific occasion – all you need to do is learn how to spot them. Use this quick-reference guide to help you decode these one-piece wonders.

Our Dressed & Ready for Summer: Every-Occasion Numbers Boutique opens Saturday, May 4, at 11AM ET.

By Abigail Kuzia, Editor

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There’s no doubt: The Great Gatsby is on the must-see list this summer. But before the film premieres, I’m determined to throw a party in honor of its coveted 20s style. Bold, glamorous, and provocative for its time – no wonder it’s making a comeback. But before those invites go out, a costume is in order, and it’s coming together via these embellished accessories.

• Pearls. And not just one strand. Pile these staples on. Wrap them, knot them, let them drape down a sequined dress. You can’t go wrong.
• Rich color, bold geometric shapes, and lavish design. Yes, we’re talking Art Deco. If it’s not radiating from your outfit, infuse it with smaller touches like an elaborate cocktail ring or rhinestone clutch.
• From shoulder bags to T-strap sandals, look for tassels, beading, and, of course, fringe. Nothing defines the Roaring Twenties like these over-the-top accents.
• Your hair will undoubtedly be pinned up in chic finger waves. Which means spottable-from-across-the-room earrings are essential.

Our Make It Your Own: Her Great Gatsby–Inspired Style and Make It Your Own: His Great Gatsby–Inspired Style Boutiques opened Friday, May 3, at 11AM ET.

By Julia Ivins, Staff Writer

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Leading the style pack this spring is easier than you think. Simply take a look at the checklists below, click to print, and then shop to check off every box. Hello, trendsetter.

To complete these lists (and then some), shop our Rue’s Spring Checklist, Rue’s Spring Checklist for Men, Rue Living’s Spring Checklist, Little Rue’s Spring Checklist, and Rue’s Travel Checklist Boutiques, opening Thursday, May 2, at 11AM ET.

By Keriann Coffey, Associate Blog Editor

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We may not be experts in astrology or the moon’s position, but we do know style alignment. And in forecasting the next month, here’s what’s in store for you.

Taurus
Big changes are on the horizon. Translation? Your shoe collection is about to get a major overhaul. Toss those worn-in sandals from last year (along with the excuses) and restock with one pair for every spring trend – bold stripes and ankle straps included.

Gemini
Quit being apprehensive about rocking a cutout one-piece at the beach this season and take the plunge. Not only will you set the crazy-stylish tone among your own posse, you’ll take the entire ocean by storm.

Cancer
The quickest way to make some changes? Step out of that comfort-zone hibernation and into a refreshingly new experience (three-day-long spa retreats totally count).

Leo
Don’t be thrown by recent drama. Instead, surround yourself with things that make you incandescently happy, like brand new strappy wedges, those first few drinks on a patio, and froyo. Lots of froyo.

Virgo
If there’s one thing you can count on for spring, it’s (what feels like) a completely new wardrobe. And with certainty comes the ability to plan. Puerto Rico, here you come – umbrella-clad cocktails are calling.

Libra
There’s a secret behind that silver lining everyone’s been talking about (girl-crush Jennifer Lawrence not included). It comes in the form of metallic, buttery leather accessories. Feeling more positive yet?

Continue reading “Rue Horoscopes: May” »

 
In or out? When it comes to tucking in button-down and polo shirts, the quick answer is… it depends. So to make the decision easier on you, I’m breaking down the whens, whys, and hows of this day-to-day debate.

The Button-Down
If a button-down hangs below your hips, Esquire says that tucking the shirt in is a must. Guys, it just looks sharper. Whether you’re wearing it with dark jeans, corduroys, khakis, or dress pants – always, always keep the button-down tucked if you’re in dress pants – make sure to use a belt and tuck the shirt in nice and tight. The last thing you want is an anything-but-modern blousy tuck. If you’re wearing a jacket over a button-down, take GQ‘s advice and keep your shirt tucked in.

For a more casual look, go ahead and keep that button-down untucked – but make sure your proportions are clean. The shirt should hit above your hips, and take care to avoid pants that are too roomy. This look can easily sway toward sloppy.

If you’re adventurous, try the half-tuck. Tuck in half of your shirt, letting the other section fall over to the side of your belt buckle. The front-tuck, with both sections tucked behind the belt buckle (as seen on The Sartorialist), is another variation. This look falls into more casual territory, but it also has a bit of debonair flair (see David Beckham rock it) and shows that you’re comfortable experimenting. Proceed with caution, though, and trust your gut – the partial tuck can easily go wrong.

The Polo
The polo is inherently more casual, so the general rule is to leave it untucked, but there are a few exceptions. Esquire‘s below-the-hip rule also applies here, so if your polo is on the long side, tuck it in. On the golf course, always go with a nice, clean tuck and be sure to wear a belt – your look should be as sharp as your game. Likewise, if you’re working a polo on casual Friday, tuck it in to maintain a more professional vibe.

Looking to push some style boundaries? You can also attempt the front-tuck with a polo, but again, proceed with caution. I would only recommend it with a looser shirt and belted pair of well-fitting jeans. If you’re not feeling 100% confident (and totally nonchalant) about it, this front-tuck is best left alone.

Our Original Penguin Boutique opened Wednesday, May 1, at 11AM ET.

By Chrissy Makkas, Staff Writer

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