The very first installment of Menswear Monday is all about ski and snowboard gear.

Since I dress both men and women I thought it was only fair to dedicate a day to the boys. 

For men, technical details and fit are really key. Their are cargo pant and slim pant options, fully lined or just a shell. Jackets with zip out layers are great for spring on the slopes. As for base layers, there are some cool choices that will take you from the snow to the bar without missing a beat. 

Enjoy!
xo,
Maria

Almost 15 years ago, I graduated from FIDM (Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising) and started working as an Assistant Product Line Manager at Spyder Active Sports. When I started, the Line Managers had just started adding seamless zippers and were researching using alpaca in the knits. Technical fabric, construction, warmth, weight of fabrics, style, colors lots and dyes. I learned so much while I was color blocking jackets day and night. 😂 So, when I started skiing again last year, the first place I went for my gear was Spyder. I knew exactly what I wanted,  full on classic ladies bib complete with suspenders. Not only is it comfortable and techincal but it is perfect for wine at the lodge after a long day on the slopes. 

I loved skiing as a kid. It wasn’t just fun, it was social. We had a large group of "friends that are family" and we all skied together at Northstar at Tahoe. Our families would meet on the mountain and ski top to bottom, sometimes we would turn backwards  or ski through each other’s legs. Oh the fearlessness of being a kid. 

It took me a long time to get back on skis, 18 years! When I did, my muscle memory kicked in and I was soaring! I appreciate a more leisurely ride now. Slow and steady until we hit the lodge for après ski. Now that I live on the east coast, the skiing is a bit different but still fun. My boys are learning to snowboard with my husband, which gives him the most joy. 

So, whether you are an avid skier, beginner, or just getting back on the slopes after a long hiatus, here is some of my favorite ski/snowboard gear. Best part, everything is chic enough for après ski style, too.

Xoxo,
Maria

The holiday season is upon us, which means holiday parties! From cocktail to casual, office to a friends home, there are options for every occasion. Bring on the bubbly and bourbon! 

First question I ask my clients about their event is time and location. Afternoon tea ensembles are going to be vastly different from evening cocktail parties.  

Below you will find options for the most common holiday parties, all with varying price points. There are so many great pieces out there right now!

Reach out to maria@stylebyrisso.com if you would like a little more guidance or more options!
​
xoxo,
Maria

Many moons ago (11 years to be exact) when I started a little blog called "Frolic in Tulle," I posted a "Friday Finds" every Friday. It compared two almost identical items with widely varying price points. At the time, just squeaking by living in NYC, designer/high end fashion wasn't an option for me. "Friday Finds" was my way of finding pieces similar to the ones I longed for at a reasonable price. 

The weather has finally turned here in Connecticut and the fall chill is finally in the air. It's time to break out those boots!

This season there are a variety of boots for every style. Cowboy, slouchy, ankle, knee high, flat, block heel and stiletto. 

So, how do you navigate the plethora of choices? You can narrow down the selection with these three options in mind: heel height, color and style. 

xoxo, Maria
​
Need help putting finding boots that will work for you? send me an email at maria@stylebyrisso.com

I love all the seasons for different reasons but fall is top of the list. From coats to jackets, sweaters and jeans, hats and boots, the options are endless and the texture is off the charts! Start with tweed then add some leather and a little silk, hello gorgeous. 

Texture adds dimension and interest to any ensemble. Pair the silk with the leather, the denim with the herringbone and the plaid with those star covered Ultracor leggings you wear to the gym! 

Below are some of my favorite texture filled pieces are linked below, just click on the photo. 

xoxo,
​Maria

Another closet staple is the ever useful and functional blazer. There are so many fabrics, colors, shapes and lengths to choose from. Start with your basic black or navy 2 button-blazer that you can wear with your favorite pair of jeans. Pair it with a  simple white t-shirt and shoes, outfit upgraded immediately. A blazer instantly polishes up any ensemble. If you are feeling a bit more daring, look for a tweed or plaid blazer. I love a tweed blazer with boots and a midi skirt for fall! 

*Budget friendly...a great way to update a blazer you already own is to change the buttons! Bring your blazer with you so you know the right size of button and go for  gold. A brassy or shiny gold button will instantly update any blazer.

Some favorite blazers are linked below, just click on the photo. 

xoxo,
Maria

There is something so classic and rugged about a denim jacket. Created by Levi Strauss in the early 1900's, this versatile little jacket was meant for miners and cowboys much like the first Levi Jeans. It was tough and accessible.

Standing the test of time, and trend, the denim jacket has been worn by everyone from James Dean to Madonna. Talk about the ultimate wardrobe necessity!

The styles have evolved to include peplums, fringe, rips, color variations and silhouette. Classic silhouettes in your best color will never fail your wardrobe so find your best fit and keep it forever!

​Here are some of my favorites. xoxo, Maria

Baby, it's getting cold outside! Treat yourself to a warm down coat this winter. There are so many great options out there. They vary in price point, length, fur or faux fur collars, type of down fill and warmth. Start with your budget and find the best choice for you.  Here are some of my favorites. Slightly obsessed with the Velvet Oxblood from ASOS.

Enjoy and stay warm! xo, M

Top Row: French Connection $158, Gap $138, ASOS $136
​Bottom Row: TopShop $135, Alessandra Chamonix $995, UNIQLO $69.90

UNIQLO Coat $99.90,  H&M Metallic Sweater Dress $34.99, Madewell Beanie $39.50, Sam Edelman Booties $104.90

Holiday season is here which means holiday parties! From off the shoulder to lace, there are some great styles out there. If you are looking for a holiday outfit and need a little guidance send me an email stylebyrisso@gmail.com. Happy Holidays! xo, M