Tough Love

Looks from Versace Spring 2012 (left and right), and Balmain Spring 2012 (middle). Via style.com 

Originally posted in The CLOSET

Opposites, as they say, always attract.  Whether it's the unexpected mash-up of a masculine cut with an ultra-feminine twist, the fresh contrast of mixing something traditional with something modern, or the proportional beauty of pairing a fitted piece with a super voluminous partner, things always work better when there's a yin and a yang to help achieve that perfect balance.  Case in point: my husband and I, who could not possibly be more different, are somehow just what the other needs.  He's rational where I'm completely not, he's a science and business nerd and I'm a fashion geek.  I'm a little immature and he's... Okay, maybe we're more similar than I like to admit...

Always in search of that perfect contrast, designers often rely on the stud to toughen up a too-pretty look. Those little metal details provide the perfect hit of toughness to add some bitter to the sweet.  And when you think of it, couldn't most of us use a little edge? After all, we spend so much time trying to look professional, trying to impress our mother-in-law, trying to look the part (blah, blah, blah) but somewhere underneath, there's a little trouble-maker trying to get out.  I'm not talking 50 Shades of Grey trouble..(not that there's anything wrong with that...)

And yet, the stud is just tough enough.  Wear it now and all the way into the fall, anytime you feel like your look needs a little edge.  You might be surprised how fun it is to break out your inner rebel, even if only in the form of a bad-ass little bracelet...

From summery neon sandals and little white dresses that you can wear right now to studded leather finds that will see you through the fall, here are some of my top picks from White Oaks Mall.  Oh, and unlike a tattoo, this trend is 100% removeable.  Phew ;)

Valentino Spring '12 Ad Campaign - photo source: whowhatwear.com

Studded Bag, $59.95, H&M

Doreen Studded Sunglasses, $90, Guess

Shauna Studded Dress, $349, Club Monaco 

A sweet summer look gets a little edge thanks to cool studded loafers. Photo source: Zara

Studded Loafer, $80, ALDO 

Neon Studded Sandals, $14, ALDO

Bed Stu Studded Heel, $127, American Eagle Outfitters

Studded T-Strap Sandals, $24.49, ALDO

The Burberry Prorsum Fall '12 Finale, complete with studded leather gloves. 

Button Cuff with Wrap Chains and Studs, $30, Guess

Suede Peep-Toe Booties, $120, ALDO

Wrap Bracelet with Studs, $12.99, Guess

Studded Ballet Flats, $50, ALDO

Studded Leather Tote, $168, Guess

Studded Pumps, $100, ALDO