Shopping 101.

  Despite what the opposite sex may think, successful shopping is hard (but enjoyable) work.  There is so much to consider!  Versatility, quality, effect on skin tone, comfort... the list goes on.  Just to make life a little easier during this busy Christmas season (and perhaps when you reward yourself just a tad with a Christmas gift to yourself), here are some quick and easy tips as you add to your wardrobe.

1. When in doubt, don't. If you have doubts while still in the "honeymoon period" of your relationship with this new piece, then things will only go downhill from there! If you would prefer it in a different color or slightly different cut, chances are, you will find something better.
 

2. Just think about it.  If you aren't sure about a particular item for some reason, perhaps a little too pricey or difficult to match, put it on hold and come back later.  The glamour often disapates to reasonable levels if you spend a little time apart from your new love.

3. Check the return policy. If it's a department store, like Kohl's or JC Penny's, there's little to no time limit for returns --you buy it, bring it home, and decide if you really like/need it as badly as you thought in the store.

4. The skintone effect.  Check how the item effects your the color of your face! This applies more to tops, jackets, scarves, and dresses than to trousers and skirts.  When you shop, wear a color that you know compliments your skin tone.  For instance, I know I look good in a warm navy blue --it brings color to my cheeks and warmth overall to my skin.  When you've spotted an item you like go in front of a mirror and hold it up under your chin.  Compare the item's effect on your face to the top you are wearing.  If the color is not for you, it will visibly drain the color from your skin, making your face appear gray or yellow.  Your goal is warm, glowing skin.

5. Stay true to your style.  There's nothing wrong with buying for a particular event, but don't dress to impress someone else if it means buying something that will take up residence in the back of your closet for a few years. 


Happy shopping and Merry Christmas!

Winter 2011-12

  As the earth turns from deep orange to chilling white, we again turn to our wardrobes so we can adapt to the new season, as well as incorporate a new trend or two.

 This winter, fashion has reached back into the past to firmly grasp prominent 70s trends and pulled them firmly to the present.  The 70s were full of saturated color, rich textures, and laid-back sillouettes.

  Some key colors in this new season are rust, yellow ochre, magenta, warm red, and teal.  Note that all these colors are decidedly rich (as opposed to  "barely colors" like ice blue or powder pink).  Dote on yourself in jewel tones; warm yourself with color this winter!

  Winter 2011-12 is a season of texture exploration.  Step out of your comfort zone and into corduroy trousers, crocheted vests, chiffon blouses, and accordion skirts.  If you're really feeling adventurous, spring for something sequin-laden for some blatant shine!

  As for silhouettes, think classic 70s looks.  Here is one look to get you started: a loose top paired with exuberantly flared pants (perhaps in rust orange) and army boots.  Accessorize with a crocheted vest and a set of aviator sunglasses.  There's no mistaking where you're getting your inspiration from.

  This winter as you reluctantly bundle up, resist the pull of laziness regarding what you wear beneath that heavy jacket.  Whether rain or snow, now is the perfect time for a fashionable you.

Defining Your Style

  Do you ever feel as if you are a tad lost when it comes to putting together creative outfits, for fear you will look as if you are "dressing out of your league" or "trying too hard?"  If someone were to ask you what your style is like, would you be able to define it in two or three words, none of which being "nice," "kind of," or "girly?"

Delicate Romantic.  Boho Bold.  Aloof Parisian.  Fashion Forward.  Rocker Fierce.  Free Spirit.  Ultra Femme.  Classic European.  Vintage Chic.

  Defining your style can help you to feel confident in your unique way of dressing and to be more creative in outfit choice.  Giving yourself even a general "label" of sorts can reveal your own boundaries and allow you to experiment on your more confident days.

Step One.
  Pick three outfits from your wardrobe.  These outfits should be complete with jewelry, belt, or whatever else is required.  Be willing to explore all your options, do not just grab whatever necklace you have been wearing lately!  Do not bother trying to create a context for these outfits (a "who to wear this with" or "where to wear").
  The first outfit should be a tried and true set that you feel confident and attractive in.
  The second, an everyday sort of outfit that you pick out on your more lazy days.
  Lastly, the third outfit should be completely new: an assemblage you have never worn before. It can be something you've put together in your mind before but have never worn, or have been nervous about wearing.

Step Two.
  Grab a notebook and make three categories for Outfit A, Outfit B, and Outfit C.  Now, start with Outfit A and list off the words that come to your head as you look at it.  Be willing to work a little: try to list off five or six, and use a thesaurus if need be! Do this for each outfit.  Using words more than once is definately allowed!
 
Step Three.
  Look at all those words! Go ahead and draw lines between similar adjectives. Make a fourth list then with those similar words.

Step Four.

  Lastly, get a second (or third and fourth!) opinion.  Phone a friend or two and ask how they would define your style! Keep an eye on your fourth list and note if you hear them suggest any of the words you have already documented.

Step Five.

  You should have a pretty good idea of your individual style now!  In two or three words, create a definition for yourself.  You can borrow a word or two from my list above, but try to stick to the words from your fourth list.

A Few Further Exercises...

  Take pictures of your outfits and create a lookbook folder for yourself on your computer (or print them out and actually make a lookbook).

  Wear your more creative outfits when you are out with the girls.  They already love you.

  Never be afraid to experiment.  Your style definition is maleable and will change as you do!

Please post your results!

Building Up Your Basics

     Along with the end of summer--the sad goodbye to strappy tanks, shorts, and sunglasses and the reluctant greeting towards chilly weather-- comes the need for some serious wardrobe evaluation.  You know what I mean; you want to continue feeling summer warm and are hesitant to jump into itchy sweaters just yet.  However, before you go on a frantic shopping spree and buy anything crazy, create a plan.  You need to make sure your foundation is sound before you build up your wardrobe!

     Before you head out the door, pull .out your basics.  What are basics, exactly?  Basics are un-embellished tanks and tees, camis, dark jeans.  Lay them out and take a good, long look.  Do you have an array of neutral colors in your tanks, tees, and camis?  Do you even have a pair of professional-looking jeans?

     Because layering is so important during the winter for warmth (and the cuteness factor), you need tanks and camis in several neutal tones.  Every outfit has a foundational color, typically either black, brown, white, or navy, and this is determined by your top (or pants, if you like brightly colored or patterned trousers).  Think of the neutral tone the back drop behind your family picture.  It simply flatters.  Match your makeup to your neutral tone for simplicity and sophistication.  Once you, have tanks and camis in black, brown, white, and navy, you can branch out into more neutrals tones like olive, dusty rose, cream, and nude.

     Basic tees are so vital as the chilly weather sets in because they are an easy, go-to top.  Basic tees are like comfort food (or even Ugg boots)-- familiar and simple.  Again, look for them in neutral tones, and add some of your favorite colors in at your leisure.  Also, basic tees are easily paired with a patterned scarf or mittens!

     Dark jeans are a must for any woman.  Dark washes are always more flattering than light washes.  A simple bootcut pair can be worn with nearly every cut of top, and to a huge variety of locations: a buisness-casual workplace, classes, church, on a date... you name it.

      One you know you have these necessities within your closet, shop and smile, knowing you won't be caught saying the next day, "But what do I wear with it?!"

  

Fine Art

    
You are an artist.
     Fashion is your medium; your body is your canvas.
    
     You have an personal style that those around you can recognize easily.  That style influences your choices, combinations, and uses of color, line, shape, and texture.  That style influences which necklace you pair with a date dress, or the cut of the blouse you choose to tuck (or refrain from tucking) into your skirt as you head to work.  You are driven towards your idea of beauty-- towards creating that perfect combination, your masterpiece.

      You are an artist.
      Let your creativity explore itself.  Step out of your comfort  zone towards beauty instead of staying within the familiar.  Few  things easily achieved are truly worth achieving.

Autumn 2011

     The seasons are changing once again, driving women to their closets to assess their readiness for the coming weather, and quickly henceforth to their favorite retailers to fill in the clothing gaps.  In the spirit of "back to school," whether they are students or not, autumn is the perfect time to tap into the atmosphere of new beginnings and reassess fashion's direction as well as personal style.
    
     This quickly approaching autumn, fashion is falling hard for laid-back, earthy, boho-chic looks with a neutral, 70's-inspired color pallete.  Fashion is in the mood for delving deeper into the art of texture-mixing, a trend started this past summer.


     If you're in the mood for some wardrobe-reinventing, some key pieces this autumn are dolman tops, cozy striped sweaters, and patterned scarves.  Combine or simply purchase these three pieces with 70's tones such as olive green, peach, skin tone, white, cream, navy, dusty rose, or gray.


     Some of the easiest ways to adapt this autumn is accessorization.  It will be hard to over-accessorize this season!  Explore footwear-- menswear-esque shoes, oxfords, and vintage, suede ankle-boots are the upcoming "it" shoes. Resist the urge to be matchy-matchy; try a Native American-inspired piece (hair accessory or earrings) and an animal-pendant necklace.


     Try adding a touch of turqoise to stand out from the neutral colors.  Spring for bright eyeshadow or a turqoise stone bracelet.  The color is refreshing in light of the coming winter months!


     Good luck, and don't shy away from taking a fashion-risk!

Trend Alert: The Maxi

               Well, fashionistas, a wonderful trend has resurrected itself from 2009—the maxi dress!  If you’re anything like me, you kept your floor-grazing pieces in your closet even as the trend died off in 2010, hoping that you’d get another chance to feel so feminine again. 

               Or, if you’re newer to being in touch with fashion, maxi dresses are available all over the place!  I found a wonderful selection at Forever 21.com, the same store from which I purchased my first maxi dress.

$19.80

$26.90

$29.90

$24.80

SALE $10.00



              This is a Summer 2011 trend I would definately recommend participating in.  There is a huge variety in maxi dresses: babydoll, straight, and cinched waist cuts, and floral, tribal, and geometric patterns.  There is no way you can't find one you'll love!
             Wearing the maxi dress is a perfect way to feel feminine. There is nothing quite like the swish of soft fabric caressing your calves and kissing your ankles all day. <3

Summer 2011.

               Most of us add to our wardrobe in order to stave off the inevitable “I have nothing to wear!” mornings. What girl wants to open her wardrobe only to discover same, same, same? Face it, fashionistas, we love the luxury of options!  Wonderfully, the fashion of summer 2011 is all about options.  Each of the plethora of emerging trends can all be traced back to one of three eras: the 20s, the 50s, or the 70s, the latter being the most prevalent this season.

The 20s inspired look.

               Only hints of this look have entered the fashion world lately, but they are there none the less!  The drop-waist or waistless silhouette is common in many dresses this season. Don’t be afraid to forgo the waist-defining elastic belt every once in a while; allow the fabric to flatter you! Also, try incorporating (or embellishing some pieces you already have) with sweet bows (tied to your hat, pinned to your dress etc.), as well as some long, body-elongating necklesses.

The 50s inspired look.

               Like the 20s inspired trends, the 50s looks tend to appear in dressy clothing.  The classic  50s look, the housewife dress (trim bodice with a full skirt), is stepping into the spotlight again.  The sweet, feminine look can be achieved via dress or with a fitted top (sleeveless or sweater), wide belt, and a very full, mid-calf length skirt.  Polka dot pattern is becoming a more common in tops and dresses also.  So indulge your inner soda-shop frequenting girl and slip into a classic look from this era.  I recommend Lauren Conrad's "Ciao Bella" Collection for 50s inspired dresses.

The 70s inspired look.

               This option will give you the most wiggle room within the wardrobe you already have.  Experiment with patterns; nautical stripes in vibrant colors (such as cobalt blue, electric pink, eye-grabbing orange, or lush green) and floral patterns with a punch, to name a few.  Experiment with your silhouette; you can try baby doll, high waist, or waistless silhouettes.  Experiment with textures; keep wearing your frilly tops of the last couple seasons, and mix lace and chiffon and cotton and jean without fear.  70s is about overdoing it a little bit!

               The 70s look can go two ways—either boho or Charlie’s Angel fierce.  For an example of a boho look, think a patterned chiffon and lace top in a baby doll cut paired with wide-leg jeans and some flatforms (platforms without a heel).  A fierce 70s vibe can be created with, for instance, a brightly-colored striped blouse tucked into high-waisted black pants, adding some sleek platforms to finish the look.  If you’re brave, you can try a black jumpsuit with a wide belt.

               For those of you more practical fashionistas who would like just a few elements of summer fashion (top trends) to incorporate into your wardrobe, I’ll throw a few at you:

1.      Nautical  Stripes, Polka Dots, and Florals

2.      Pops of Color (shoes, hair accessory, necklace, lipstick, etc.)

3.      Texture (lace, crochet, chiffon, etc.)

4.      Unexpected Combos (mixing patterns, colors, and textures)

5.      Platforms or Flatforms

Don’t be afraid to be bold this summer. <3

I Heart Lauren Conrad

     Every fashionista has a favorite designer.  For some, it may be Marc Jacobs or Gianni Versace; personally, I prefer a particular, more down to earth designer, Lauren Conrad.

    Native to California, this girl won her fame through reality TV show "Laguna Beach: the Real Orange County," and further attention as the former co-star of "The Hills" with Heidi Montag.

   She got her start in fashion through an internship with Teen Vogue in 2006, and became spokesperson for Avon's "mark." fashion line in 2007, and remained their spokesperson for three years.

   In fall 2009, Conrad launched her fashion line, "LC" via department store Kohl's.  The successful, fresh, and reasonably-priced line is a favorite of the store's customers.

   Upon first discovery of the line, I'll admit I was skeptical.  The pieces in her 2010 winter line were not to my liking..  Yet, as the line progressed, over 2010, I grew to enjoy her pieces very much as she incorporated more feminine elements, such as chiffon and other soft, elegant fabrics, frivilously wonderful ruffles, sparkling beadwork, and blossom embellishments.

   A chronological progression...

            

   Her pieces have gotten more chic with every collection!

   When it comes to her LC line, I have noticed several pros and cons concerning the fabric content and fit of her designs.
   When it comes to fabrics for her line, Lauren Conrad always chooses comfortable mediums.  Many of her tops are breathable poly-cotton blends, soft and flowing rayon/spandex blends, or elegant and light chiffons.  On the other hand, the poly-cotton blends will drastically shrink in the dyer (best hung to dry), the rayon/spandex blends and chiffon MUST be hung to dry (unless you like melted fabric).  Also, in order to preserve some of the piece's beadwork and delicate fabric flowers, you may want to consider hand-washing her pieces. Conrad's jeans feel like your favorite worn-in pair from the start, her casual pants are soft and breathable, and her jeggings are nicely (but not too) stretchy.  The Conrad's dresses are always soft and flowing, typically chiffon over a poly-cotton slip for comfort.  These delicate fabrics are best hand-washed.

   Finding the right fit among Lauren Conrad's fashion line may take some experimenting.  For instance, Conrad's variety of tops fit a variety of body types: the fabric flows nicely for slim women, but also flatters curvy ones.  The tops tend to run a little large, however, and petite fashionistas may seek tailoring for their XS choices.  Conrad's jeans, casual pants, and jeggings, unlike the tops, seems to only fit a few particular body types, those being willow, apple, and heart.  For those of us with a little more "junk in the trunk," namely hourglass and pear types, may have more trouble squeezing into Conrad's  creations meant for the lower half! Lastly, Conrad's dresses are always chic and classy.  She tends to choose chiffon for dresses, and sticks to pastels, florals or both.  However, for taller women, her shorter pieces may not provide enough coverage.  For those with that issue, she has a nice selection of maxi dresses too.

  As a skeptic turned fanatic, I encourage you too check out Lauren Conrad's LC line at Kohl's.  Her fashion insight is enviable, and she has a good balace of feminine and more masculine pieces (casual pants and sleek blazers).  Most importantly, she would wear (and does, I'm sure) all of her beautiful pieces proudly.

*Thanks to wikipedia.com for information on Lauren Conrad and to Google Images for the photos.

TREND ALERT!

  Spring is in the air!  The breeze is cool and fresh, bunnies are hopping in the yard, birds chirp excitedly above your head, and butterflies flitter to and fro.

  Speaking of butterflies, a new trend, begun slowly last spring, has awakened and ascended gracefully in the fashion world... butterfly sleeve tops.  Feminine, artistic, and statement-making, atleast one needs to take harbour (and cocoon for the winter) in your closet!

  The tops are everywhere, and hard to miss.  Here are a few examples I discovered on a recent trip to the mall...

  Notice the "it" color of the season, peach/salmon/honeysuckle, and the use of embroidery.

  Another, more literal, example of a butterfly sleeve top...

 

  Perhaps you may feel a bit insecure taking a bit of a leap from the ordinary t-shirts and jeans of our culture, but the benefits outweigh the sacrifices.  These tops fit similarly to a tee, and are affordable if you do a bit of shopping around (I reccommend Kohls.com for a good deal!).  They can be easily paired with jeans of any cut (I wear mine with skinnies) or shorts (bermudas or short). Wearing this top is a simple way to acheive a perfectly feminine, fresh look.

Rave or Waive?

A new trend is on the rise… denim shirts and dresses.  These items, popular among conservatives now and trendy in the 90s, are making a comeback.

Already, stores are carrying these denim items, especially summer dresses.

Say What? by Kohl's

I <3 Ronson by JC Penny's

"Chambray Ruffle Tier Dress" by Forever 21

What do you think? Is versatile denim a has-been or a diamond in the rough?  Could a trend from the 90s, when fashion ceased to exist, really be successful in this tough fashion climate?

Spring 2011.

As the season changes, female minds turn to fashion.  What colors should I be introducing into my wardrobe for spring?  What textures and patterns are prominent this spring? What particular autumn and winter trends will carry over into spring, and how to transition my pieces? What “so last year” items should I toss? Are there any completely new trends I should consider?

Well, shall I give you my Spring 2011 fashion assessment?

I think I shall.

Spring 2011’s key colors are royal navy blue and variations of coral pink.  These two colors can be worn as accents, such as in a scarf, with more neutral colors, as individual pieces, such as a silk blouse (trend carried over from winter), or even daringly worn together. 

The patterns and textures of Spring 2011 are those of winter, but amplified!  Florals, which, over winter, were small, are bigger and brighter this spring.  Experiment loosely with floral dresses and scarves in pinks and blues.  Lace, another winter texture, is changing to subtle lining to entire sleeves.  Lace goes with almost anything! Invest in a tank or two lined or layered with lace, as well as a basic, feminine top with lace sleeves; both items are good for layering.  Shine, the third texture of winter, is hanging around in silk blouses, and accents such as sequins, stacked pumps, and bold jewelry.

How then should one transition from winter to spring fashion? Grey and dusty pink, the two “it” colors for Winter 2010, are transitioning easily into spring.  Dusty pink can be paired with cream, and grey is a common base color for outfits.  Thankfully, Winter 2010’s textures are all staying afloat this spring, providing easy transition.  Mixing and matching new pieces and old to discover updated outfits is recommended.

Out with the old and in with the new, especially this season!  Fashion is making determined strides towards sophistication.  Toss the leggings, those are completely scarce on the runways now.  The crop tops and jumpsuits, which attempted at popularity early 2010, are not acceptable in any shape or form for a true fashionista.  Logo screened tees, particularly those with irritating slogans, are a no-no.  You can keep the flow-y vests of last spring, but, if you need add one to your wardrobe, spring for a crocheted vest.

The new trends this spring are the boxy top and the flare jean.  The boxy top is for the daring —it is typically a rayon-polyester mix tee or a silky tank generously cut, providing a boxy shape.  The look can either be feminine and petite or just disastrous.  For those who dare, try pairing it with a cardigan or blazer and either skinnies or flared jeans.  Speaking of which, jeans are making a definite move away from skinny to loose.  While jeggings were the “it” pant all winter, Spring 2011 fashions are aimed toward a more 70s inspired look.

Fashion is on the up and up.  It is all feminine details and textures, colors that pop paired with muted tones, and a touch of shine.  Fare well, fashionistas.