juliematos-blog

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Feeling grateful to be featured in CNN Underscored’s roundup of the best cowboy boots to shop now! 🖤

Big thanks to @Rachel Dennis for including my styling POV - loved chatting about how cowboy boots continue to be a go-to statement piece that blends function, flair, and fashion history.

Check out the full article here:

👉 https://www.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/fashion/best-cowboy-boots

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Spring/Summer 2025 Fashion Trends: What’s In and How to Wear It By Julie Matos

Spring and summer are all about fresh perspectives, and 2025’s trends bring bold expressions, fluid silhouettes, and textures that make a statement. Whether you’re diving in headfirst or just adding subtle touches to your look, here’s a breakdown of the trends to watch and how to make them work for you.

Sculptural Silhouettes

We’re seeing power shoulders, peplum waists, and structured draping that redefine proportions. These pieces are all about creating shape and adding that tailored, refined vibe.

Wear it: A sculpted blazer or a midi dress is an easy way to elevate your look instantly. It’s perfect for everything from work to a night out.

Sheer Layering

Transparency is taking things up a notch with elegant, layered styles. It’s all about adding dimension without losing that sophisticated touch.

Wear it: Pair a sheer blouse over a bralette or layer a tulle maxi dress with a slip for a fresh, evening-ready vibe.

3D Florals

Florals are getting a serious makeover this season, with appliqués, embroidery, and sculptural textures making them pop off the fabric. It’s floral, but elevated.

Wear it: Think a floral appliqué top with tailored trousers, or go bold with a ruffled dress to make a statement.

Fringe & Feathers

Movement is everything this season, from silky fringe to feathered accents that brings fun to your look. It's all about adding texture and letting your outfit move with you.

Wear it: A fringe-trimmed skirt or a feathered clutch adds just the right amount of drama without going overboard.

Modern Pastels

Pastels are taking on a fresh, more modern feel with buttery yellows, muted corals, and icy blues. These soft tones are perfect for the season, with a twist that keeps things sophisticated.

Wear it: A monochrome pastel look will keep you chic and modern think a soft yellow blouse with muted blue trousers for a cool, effortless vibe.

Luxe Boho

The ‘70s are back but with a twist. Polished crochet, macramé, and flowy silhouettes give us the best of boho, with a luxe upgrade.

Wear it: A crochet dress or a macramé top with wide-leg trousers lets you channel that boho energy but in a polished, elevated way.

Final Take

Trends are there to have fun with, but they should always work for you.

Pick what resonates with your vibe, and make these styles your own.

For more style inspo, follow me @JulieMatosStyle or visit juliematos.com.

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What Makes an Expert in the Age of Social Media?

By Julie Matos

We’ve all had that conversation should we trust the "experts" we see on social media? With influencers and professionals vying for our attention, what truly defines an expert in today’s world?

A recent chat with my friend made me think about why she buys from influencers. They may not always have years of experience, but their authenticity and connection with their audience make them a trusted source. So, what does it mean to be an expert now, and how has social media changed that?

The New Definition of Expertise

In the past, expertise was about experience, credentials, and recognition. But in the age of social media, those things don’t always matter as much. It’s more about trust, authenticity, and the ability to connect with people on a personal level.

Authenticity Over Credentials

Today, it’s less about your degrees or formal experience and more about how genuine and relatable you are. People want to connect with real, transparent voices. Whether it’s a designer sharing the behind-the-scenes of their craft or an influencer showing how they style their pieces, authenticity holds more weight than ever before.

Niche Knowledge Still Reigns

Specialization is key. While influencers might be great at curating content or building a following, professionals who’ve spent years honing their craft still have deep, niche expertise that’s incredibly valuable. And even if they don’t have thousands of followers, they’re respected for their work and knowledge.

Take Re/Make, for example. The organization is filled with experts on sustainable fashion researchers, garment workers, and ethical fashion advocates who have spent years in the industry fighting for transparency. Their work has led to tangible changes in how brands approach sustainability, even without influencer-level followings. Yet, on social media, we often see brands pushing "sustainable" products through influencers who may not have the same level of deep industry knowledge. So, who should we trust? The people with decades of expertise or those who are just really good at selling an idea?

Engagement Over Follower Count

Let’s face it numbers don’t always tell the full story. It’s not just about how many followers you have; it’s about how you engage and add value to your community. Influencers may have huge numbers, but experts with fewer followers often make a more meaningful impact because their message resonates with a dedicated audience.

Consistency is Key

An expert isn’t just someone who knows their stuff they’re consistent in sharing that knowledge. It’s not about viral posts, but about building a reputation over time. Whether it’s through blogs, podcasts, or small-scale social media posts, the real experts are constantly sharing their insights and staying current.

The Influence of Influencers

So, why do people like my friend trust influencers for buying decisions?

Relatable – They feel a personal connection. Influencers share their authentic experiences, making it easy for followers to see themselves in those recommendations.

Trust – The constant, consistent presence of influencers builds trust. It’s not just about selling something it’s about genuinely connecting with an audience.

Convenience – Social media makes it easy to shop and get instant feedback. When you see someone you trust share something they love, it feels like a recommendation you can count on.

Experience vs. Social Media Presence

The real disconnect often lies in the difference between having experience and building a social media presence. There are pros with decades of knowledge who might not have a massive online following, but their expertise is top-notch. On the other hand, influencers might be great at building a community but may not have the technical experience that some seasoned professionals bring.

What Does This Mean for You?

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a social media star, the key to true influence is building trust. It’s about being consistent, authentic, and genuinely offering value to your audience. For brands and individuals, understanding that expertise doesn’t always come with a large following is crucial.

The experts who matter most are the ones who connect with people and share knowledge regardless of follower count.

So, what do you think? How do you define expertise today?

Let’s talk about it.

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The Luxe Hunt: Scoring High-End Designer for Less And Why It’s the Ultimate Power Move

By Julie Matos

Let’s be real-there’s nothing better than getting your hands on a dream designer piece. But what’s even better? Snagging it for way less than retail while keeping it sustainable. Welcome to the world of Depop, Poshmark, and The RealReal where luxury meets affordability, and shopping secondhand is the smartest flex.

High-End for Half the Price? Say Less.

Designer markups are wild, but the resale market is where the real ones shop. That Prada bag, vintage Chanel jacket, or barely-worn Bottega boots? They’re out there waiting for you often 50% off or more. And let’s not forget the goldmine of “worn once for an event” listings. Pure. Magic.

Sustainable & Chic? Double Win.

Fast fashion is a problem, and buying resale is an easy way to shop smarter, not harder. Extending the life of luxury pieces means less waste, fewer resources used, and a lighter carbon footprint. Plus, let’s be real - buying a pre-loved designer is just another way of saying, I know fashion, and I know how to do it right.

Insider Tips to Snag the Best Deals

Set Alerts & Stalk Listings - Favorite your must-have brands and set alerts so you’re always ahead of the game.

Negotiate Like a Boss - Sellers expect a little back-and-forth. Just keep it classy.

Authenticate Everything - The RealReal does this for you, but for Depop and Poshmark? Use an authentication service if you’re dropping serious cash.

The Future of Luxury is Circular. Get In.

Owning a designer doesn’t mean buying new - it means buying smart. The future of fashion is all about keeping pieces in rotation, styling them in fresh ways, and making resale the norm. So before you drop $$$ on new, check resale first. Your closet (and the planet) will thank you.

Ever scored a steal on a designer find? Drop it in the comments

I wanna hear all about it!

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Paris Fashion Week Roundup: The Moments That Mattered

By Julie Matos

Paris Fashion Week wrapped, and per usual, it delivered drama, artistry, and that effortless je ne sais quoi only Paris can serve. This season, the runways blurred the lines between past and future exaggerated silhouettes, sculptural tailoring, and a return to the opulence that makes fashion feel like pure fantasy. Let’s break down the best of the best.

Schiaparelli’s Cinematic Couture

Daniel Roseberry is in his grand spectacle era, and I’m here for it. This season, Schiaparelli gave us couture-level construction with wearable surrealism-sharp, high-drama shoulders, gilded embellishments, and silhouettes that felt sculpted, not stitched. It was a masterclass in how to make avant-garde feel modern.

The Cool-Girl Uniform at Saint Laurent

Anthony Vaccarello has perfected the formula for power dressing, and this season, he doubled down. Sharp-shouldered blazers, second-skin bodysuits, and those leather trenches? A Saint Laurent woman walks into the room, and everyone knows it.

Balenciaga’s Return to Quiet Luxury (Sort Of)

Demna dialed back the theatrics (no mud pits or dystopian settings this time) and leaned into impeccable tailoring. The show opened with classic coats and sculpted suiting before descending into distressed denim and oversized outerwear. It felt like a conversation between old-world Balenciaga and Demna’s streetwear influence for once, they weren’t fighting.

Chanel’s Love Letter to Paris

Virginie Viard’s Chanel remains a soft, dreamy interpretation of the house’s codes. This season, she took inspiration from Specifically the Left Bank-giving us poetic tweeds, delicate florals, and a color palette straight out of a sunlit Parisian afternoon. No reinvention, just romance.

Mugler’s Hyper-Femme Power Play

Casey Cadwallader continues to serve body-conscious, high-impact designs for that girl. Cinched waists, sculptural corsetry, and liquid-like fabrics made this collection feel like a second skin. If confidence had a uniform, this would be it.

Final Thoughts

Paris is always the grand finale, and this season felt like a return to fashion less gimmick, more craftsmanship. It was a reminder that style is about presence, confidence, and knowing exactly who you are. The best collections didn’t scream for attention; they commanded it.

Until next season, Paris.

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Women in Fashion: Redefining Style and Breaking Boundaries

by Julie Matos

Fashion has always been a powerful way to communicate who we are. For women in fashion, it's never just been about what we wear it’s about making a statement, creating change, and influencing culture. From the trailblazers of the past to the rising stars today, women have consistently reshaped the fashion landscape.

Shaping the Industry

Think about Coco Chanel, who freed women from restrictive clothing, or Vivienne Westwood, who made rebellion the ultimate fashion statement. Today, women like Stella McCartney, Miuccia Prada, and Aurora James continue pushing boundaries, from sustainable design to inclusive fashion.

But it’s not just about the big names. Women creatives-stylists, editors, influencers, and entrepreneurs-are bringing fresh perspectives to fashion. They're redefining how we approach style, making it more about culture, individuality, and purpose than just trends.

Fashion as Empowerment

Style isn’t just an aesthetic; it’s a form of empowerment. Whether it’s Diane von Furstenberg's iconic wrap dress, symbolizing independence, or the movement toward size inclusivity and gender fluidity in today’s fashion, women are making their voices heard through what they wear.

Supporting women in fashion means supporting those who are pushing for change. It’s about celebrating artisans, designers, and small businesses that are redefining the industry with sustainability, quality, and authenticity.

The Future Is Female

The future of fashion is being written by women who are unafraid to challenge norms. From innovative design to ethical practices, the next generation of female creatives is leading the way. This Women’s Month, let’s honor the women in fashion who are making the industry smarter, more inclusive, and more sustainable.

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Oscars 2025 Best Dressed: Red Carpet Glamour & Game-Changing Looks

By Julie Matos

The 2025 Oscars red carpet was nothing short of spectacular. Hollywood’s biggest night this year delivered jaw-dropping fashion moments, proving that red carpet style is more daring, refined, and innovative than ever. From classic Hollywood glamour to bold, avant-garde statements, these stars understood the assignment.

So, who stole the show? Let’s break down my best-dressed picks, the night's biggest trends, and the men who brought major style energy to the carpet.

The Best-Dressed Women at the Oscars 2025

Ariana Grande in Custom Schiaparelli - A modern fairytale moment with a sculptural peplum and corseted bodice, undoubtedly a nod to her role as Glinda in Wicked. She kept it soft, romantic, and dramatic in all the right ways.

Elle Fanning in White Lace Givenchy - Elle has mastered the art of ethereal elegance, and this look was no exception. The intricate lace detailing and structured silhouette gave old Hollywood meets modern-day royalty. The vintage Cartier necklace from 1958 was the perfect finishing touch.

Demi Moore in Armani Privé -Timeless and effortless, Demi shimmered in a silvery, bedazzled, body-hugging, classic, and statement-making gown.

Zoe Saldana in Atelier Versace - Sleek, sculpted, and sophisticated. The form-fitting gown highlighted her powerful yet understated approach to red-carpet dressing. A true less-is-more moment that still packed a punch.

Cynthia Erivo in Green Louis Vuitton - Cynthia always brings drama and originality, and this deep green, sculptural gown was a direct nod to her Wicked character, Elphaba. The structured design, bold hue, and flawless styling made this a standout night moment.

Lupita Nyong’o in Custom Chanel – Lupita delivered effortless elegance in a pearl-encrusted Chanel gown, dripping sequentially and perfectly tailored to her frame. The craftsmanship and attention to detail made this one of the most exquisite looks of the night.

Oscars 2025 Red Carpet Trends

Sculptural Silhouettes- Whether in structured peplums, exaggerated shoulders, or avant-garde cuts, fashion architecture ruled the night.

Ethereal Sheers & Metallics - From sheer layers to liquid metallic fabrics, designers embraced light, fluid, and futuristic materials.

Old Hollywood Revival-Opera gloves, capes, and dramatic ball gowns made a comeback, giving a nod to the golden age of cinema with a fresh, modern spin.

Sustainable Luxury-Eco-conscious dressing continues to be a major focus, with stars opting for vintage couture, upcycled fabrics, and ethically made designs.

Menswear Gets Makeover-Pastel suits, textured velvet, and embellished tailoring showed that men’s red carpet fashion is becoming more expressive and exciting.

Final Thoughts: Who Was Your Best Dressed?

The Oscars 2025 red carpet was a masterclass in high fashion, bold risks, and timeless elegance.

Who was your best-dressed pick? Drop your thoughts in the comments, I want to hear what looks stood out to you the most.

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London Fashion Week: Edgy, Unapologetic, and Bold

London vs. Milan: A Tale of Two Fashion Capitals

by Julie Matos

London and Milan Fashion Weeks delivered major fashion moments, with designers pushing boundaries while staying true to their roots.

Burberry leaned into classic British heritage with luxe outerwear and cozy scarves. Daniel Lee is making it clear that the trench coat reigns supreme.

Simone Rocha gave us dreamy, layered femininity with faux fur, tulle, and bows. Whimsical but with an edge.

Dilara Findikoglu brought a rebellious energy with her “divine feminine mutiny” a collection full of attitude and artistry.

S.S. Daley redefined British tailoring, pulling influence from music and culture to create something effortlessly cool.

Milan Fashion Week: Glamour, Craftsmanship, and Drama

Gucci is in a transition era, and this collection was a love letter to its past-think ‘60s boxy minis and ‘90s luxe.

Dsquared2 turned their 30th anniversary into a full-on party, with Naomi Campbell on the runway and rapper Doechii performing.

Prada once again delivered a masterclass in structured, forward-thinking design, proving why they set the tone for Milan.

Emerging talents like Francesco Murano and Giuseppe Di Morabito are shaking up the Milan scene with fresh, modern takes on Italian style.

Both weeks gave us a mix of nostalgia and newness, with designers honoring heritage while pushing fashion forward. London served bold experimentation, while Milan delivered its signature high-glamour polish.

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Dressing for Confidence: Why How You Look Matters More Than You Think

By Julie Matos

Confidence is the secret ingredient behind every great look. It’s the feeling that radiates from within and shines through when you step into a room. And while confidence comes from within, our clothes can play a massive role in boosting or diminishing it. When we feel put together, it’s easier to project self-assurance. When we feel uncomfortable or uncertain about what we’re wearing, that can hold us back.

I’ve always said that the best accessory a person can wear is confidence, and what better way to feel confident than by wearing clothes that make us feel good? It’s not about wearing the most expensive items or following every trend-it’s about finding the pieces that align with your personality and make you feel empowered.

I’ve seen firsthand how transformative a good outfit can be. Whether it’s for a photo shoot, a big meeting, or simply a casual day out when you dress with intention and take the time to curate a look that works for you, you immediately feel more confident. It’s a kind of silent power that communicates your worth before you even speak.

But it’s not just about looking good- it’s about feeling like the best version of yourself. And confidence isn’t just for the runway or the boardroom for every woman in every situation. Dressing with confidence can give you the ability to tackle anything that comes your way. I can’t tell you how many clients I’ve worked with who’ve come in unsure of themselves and left with a new wardrobe and newfound confidence in themselves.

Confidence isn’t about perfection-it’s about owning your look.

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NYFW 2025 Roundup: The Designers Defining the Future of Fashion

By Julie Matos

New York Fashion Week 2025 set the tone for the year with bold reinvention, nostalgic nods, and futuristic innovation. From sculptural tailoring to hyper-feminine silhouettes, these designers proved why NYFW remains at the forefront of creativity.

Marc Jacobs - Jacobs delivered a theatrical display of exaggerated proportions, deconstructed tailoring, and punk-meets-glam aesthetics, pushing the boundaries of classic American fashion.

Thom Browne - Known for his precision, Browne redefined suiting once again with architectural silhouettes, surreal layering, and a sharp blend of heritage and avant-garde.

Christopher John Rogers - A master of color and volume, Rogers stunned with vibrant hues, sculptural gowns, and dynamic textures, solidifying his place as a red carpet go-to.

Collina Strada - Sustainability met subversion in a collection filled with playful layering, unexpected textures, and eco-conscious materials, embracing a rebellious take on the future of fashion.

Calvin Klein - The brand revisited its minimalist roots with sleek tailoring, ‘90s-inspired silhouettes, and a focus on quiet luxury, proving that simplicity never goes out of style.

Bode - A love letter to handcrafted fashion, Bode’s collection featured intricate embroidery, vintage-inspired workwear, and gender-fluid silhouettes, celebrating artisanal craftsmanship.

Christian Cowan - Bringing back the drama, Cowan’s high-glam aesthetic shined through with statement sequins, voluminous ruffles, and fearless cut-outs, making it a partywear dream.

Sandy Liang - A favorite of the downtown crowd, Liang leaned into balletcore with structured tutus, soft pastels, and unexpected sporty elements, fusing elegance with street edge.

Luar - Power dressing with a twist, Raul Lopez’s Luar embraced bold shoulders, dramatic outerwear, and signature oversized handbags, making a case for statement dressing.

Eckhaus Latta - Always ahead of the curve, Eckhaus Latta blended artisanal textures, unexpected layering, and a raw, undone aesthetic, creating an effortless take on modern dressing.

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Valentine's Day looks from TV Segment x The Rhode Show xo

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✨Embrace the holiday glam with the perfect tween beauty gifts! 🎁💄 Excited to collaborate with @Facetopo to bring you the must-have goodies for a sparkling season. ✨ HolidayGlow #TweenBeauty #FacetopoCollab 💖✨

Clockwise from top left​

Wireless Express - Mini Boombox with LED Speakers.

JLab Go Air Pop True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds + Charging Case

Remote Control Ring (Tiktok scrolling, Kindle App Page Turner, Bluetooth Camera, iOS, Android)

The Sleepy Tie

Glamnetic Press On Nails

Starface Hydro-Star Pimple Patches and Big Blue Compact (+ Salicylic Acid)

Oceavity Shower Phone Holder with 360 Degree Rotating Suction Cup Phone Mount (Waterproof Sound Diaphragm, Multi-Directional)

Tower 28 Magid Shine On Lip Jelly Non-Sticky, Vegan Lip Gloss

Good Vibes Gratitude Journal.

Dermalogica Discover Healthy Skin Kit (Includes: Precleanse, Face Wash, Face Exfoliator + Moisturizer)

Evereden Premium Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50.

Humanoid: The Have-it-all Box. 

Chefman Portable Mirrored Mini Refrigerator Skin Care, Makeup Storage

Impala Quad Skates

Cute Small Makeup Bag

Kosas Revealer Super Creamy + Brightening Concealer

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🌟 Mastering effortless chic this holiday season with stylish separates! Mix & match cozy knits, elegant blouses, & statement bottoms for a versatile &polished look. ✨ @annakatarinadesign @valentino

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Amp up your winter white vibes with a perfect blend of gold & silver accessories! Achieve that festive glam & sparkle in style. Share your dazzling looks and let the holiday magic unfold! ❄️🌟@valentino @theattico @newbottega

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✨ Ring in the holidays & New Year's Eve in timeless style! 🖤✨ The Little Black Dress paired with diamonds is the epitome of elegance. Shine bright, sparkle on, & welcome the festivities with a touch of classic glamour. 💎  @annakatarinadesign @akris @valentino DM for details!

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Elevate your holiday glam with a touch of sparkle! ✨ Support local businesses & shine bright this season. ➡️ DM to secure piece’s!  @anakatarinadesign @valentino @newbottega

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✨ Unleash the holiday power in your wardrobe! Elevate your festive look with confidence, and make every celebration a fashion statement to remember. 🌟@valentino @newbottega @annakatarinadesign