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Fashion Myths

What you wear is your choice, or at least it should be.  Fashion rules have been around for as long as fashion has been an industry.  Who are these fashion gurus who tell you how to dress?  You are.  Rules are meant to be broken, so read along to find out about the fashion myths that are cramping your style and need to go. 

• No white after Labor Day. White is a knockout at any time of year.  Stay away from obvious summer pieces.  Pair your white with black shoes, leggings and a sassy, black cropped jacket. 
• Reserve your sparkly pieces for the evening. Dazzling isn’t just for the evening.  Give your daytime wear a shot of shimmer by pairing them with more casual pieces like a denim jacket or sneakers.
• You shouldn’t wear socks with sandals. Not a faux pas anymore, when done right, this look says it all…unique and stylish.
• Mixing prints is a no-no. Hot on the runway this year, prints rule.  Let yourself go wild and have some fun.  Pair large prints with small and keep the colors complementary.
• You can’t wear flats with a cocktail dress. Comfort and sensible shoes are not just for daytime.  With a pair of chic sandals or ritzy flats, your evening wear will still shine.
• Your accessories need to match. Some of the most show-stopping looks are those that mix it up in the accessory department.  Instead of trying to match your shoes and bag, try matching the colors to your outfit.  Remember to limit accessories to no more than five, this includes jewelry and fancy embellishments on your outfit like buttons.  
• Black is always slimming. Black should not be the default rule.  A black outfit isn’t universally flattering. The trick here is fit and proportion; fit is everything. 
• Keep gold and silver separate. Ditch this rule, if you like gold and silver, go for it.  The same goes for black and navy.  Let your creativity be your guide.
• Short girls can’t wear long dresses. A long dress can lengthen your silhouette regardless of height.  Choose solids and pair them with a cropped jacket or wrap.  
• Once you reach a certain age, you should change your style. Style does not have an age limit.  Do your thing.  Choose figure-flattering shapes, but not curve-hugging, and balance with structure on top.

Great Gift Ideas

Don’t let gift-giving become a burden because you can’t find just the right thing for the smart, savvy woman in your life.  Check out these gift ideas in all price ranges and relax.

•  Hot Air Brush, 1 1/2-inch by John Freida

This baby dries, styles, and brushes all at once.

• Glossier Long-wear Skincare Serum

A dewy facial serum that is sure to be a favorite new product.

• Air Force 1 Sage Low Platform Sneaker from Nike

Classic white sneakers that go with everything and that will be her most comfortable pair yet.

• 10-Piece Acrylic Resin Hair Barrettes by Fani

Super-cute hair clips that go with everything.

• Skinny Lighted Mini Vanity Mirror from Riki Loves Riki

Makeup application is all about good lighting.  This light-up vanity mirror features adjustable LED lights and phone attachments, which makes it equally perfect for doing makeup or filming videos.

• Hydro Flask Wide-Mouth Water Bottle

A reusable water bottle that helps your drinks stay the perfect temp and has a wider opening for easy cleaning.

• Velvet Hair Scrunchie Set from Urban Outfitters

A mix of fabrics and colors to match any of her outfits or vibes.

• Huda Beauty Mercury Retrograde Eyeshadow Palette

Does she love all things glittery?  Make it easy on yourself and go with this metallic, glittery, and multi-reflective textures in unique pink, purple, and turquoise shades.

• iPhone Xs Max Case with Gold Floating Glitter from Casetify

This shock-proof floating glitter case strikes the perfect balance of both dazzling and practical.

• Women’s Jadon Boot from Dr. Martens

Few boots are as classic and trendy all at once.

• Set of 3 Rings by Gorjana

Wear them all at once or simply pick one to best complement her look.

• Adidas Originals Santiago Mini Backpack from Urban Outfitters

Not big enough for books, but that’s not the point of this stylish baby backpack.

• 10x10 Inch Customizable Letter Board with Oak Frame by Y-Three

Her room will look so trendy with a letter board she can switch up with funny, cute quotes and phrases.

• Yves Saint Laurent Volume Effet Faux Cils Mascara

Will make her lashes look like falsies without the glue. For the more adventurous, it comes in multiple bright colors like cobalt and violet.

• Larimar Mini Shield Hinged Hoops by Missoma

Trendy hoops with pretty aqua-colored gemstones to add some sparkle to her lobes.

• Pull-On Tassel-Tie Shorts from J. Crew Mercantile

Lightweight drawstring shorts that’ll go with all her denim jackets and mules.

• The Travel Hair Kit by Birchbox

Travel-size hair goodies in a snappy canvas bag.

• Fade Ombré Journal from Snerd

Stay organized and write everything down, in a compact notebook made from recycled paper with a gold spiral.

• Sugar Tinted Lip Treatment SPF 15 by Fresh

A balm that leaves her lips smooth, protected and is available in eight hues.

• Replica Flower Market Fragrance by Maison Margiela

A classy perfume if she’s into scents like jasmine and rose, plus the glass bottle is super chic.

• Belief Aqua Bomb Jelly Cleanser

Free of sulfates and parabens, it effectively removes makeup and promotes skin that feels refreshed, clean, and moisturized.

• Gold Wall Photo Grid from Threshold

A lot of photos with no place to go are perfect for this stylish photo grid.

• Extra-Long Mod String Lights from Urban Outfitters

Transform any space with these flexible firefly lights.

• Echo Dot Smart Speaker with Alexa

Playlists sound so much better on a speaker.

• Estelle Nail Polish Set

A stunning set of deep purples and blues that come in both solid and shimmery shades.

• Pack of 20 Succulents from Amazon

Decorating for the plant owner who doesn’t need stress or a lot of hard work.

• Instax Mini 8 Instant Film Camera from Fujifilm

For the person who loves to document every party, sleepover, vacation…

• Gemstone Adjustable Necklace by Gorjana

If she has a penchant for gold jewelry that she can layer, she’ll appreciate a delicate necklace with a vivid turquoise pendant.

Happy shopping and wishing you the Merriest of Holidays!!!

Thankfulness - Adopting An Attitude of Gratitude

Now that Thanksgiving is just around the corner, many of us are in the mindset of giving thanks.  After all, that is what Thanksgiving is all about, but what if we were thankful every day?  Gratitude is one of the most researched emotions and the benefits of it are astounding.  Adopting an “attitude of gratitude” can make a difference is ways that you may not expect.  Gratitude…

• Makes us happier – it enables us to focus on what is good in our lives instead of what is bad.
• Reduces symptoms of depression – it deflects our attention away from ourselves and toward others.
• Improves our self-esteem – awareness of what others do for us allows us to feel better about ourselves.
• Improves sleep – it reduces the time required to fall asleep, increases sleep quality and sleep duration.
• Reduces pain - grateful people report fewer aches and pains—they are less sensitive to pain and benefit from greater pain tolerance.
• Lowers blood pressure – positive emotions trigger the body to relax
• Strengthens our immune system – gratitude increases levels of an antibody that serves as the body’s first line of defense.
• Lowers stress – it reduces the stress hormone cortisol and promotes relaxation
• Activates healing – it activates the parasympathetic, relaxing part of the nervous system, resulting in powerful positive effects.
• Helps you live longer - positive emotions have been shown to extend people’s lifespans.
• Improves relationships – expressing gratitude not only makes us feel better but also those we are in relationship with.
• Makes us more creative - positive emotions increase our field of vision.
• Makes us less self-centered - acknowledging others and their acts of kindness, results in reduced self-focus.
• Makes us humbler – gratitude reinforces humility.
• Reduces materialistic thinking - as one goes up the other comes down.
• Makes us more kind and giving - the more grateful you are, the more likely you are to help others.
• Makes us more optimistic – it prompts our mind to look at the positive, rather than the negative.
• Increases our productivity – given all the other benefits of gratitude, it is fair to assume that gratitude improves our productivity.

As you reflect on all that you are thankful for this Thanksgiving season, why not choose to take a few moments each day to give thanks and reap the many benefits of an “attitude of gratitude”.

Happy Thanksgiving!

WINTER FASHION TRENDS

The fashion gurus have spoken.  Retro is back, along with some other fascinating trends.  Get ready for…

Capes – in tweed, animal prints and snappy colors.

Longline Coats – wool, plaid or puffy coats that skim your ankles.  Fall is about having a statement coat.

Boxy Jackets – tweed, plaid and leather for the “Tomboyish” style, paired with pants or skirts.  Look for faux fur, leather or lambswool.

Mixed Patterns and Textures – stripes with plaid, eclectic prints, mixed textures, and metallic accents all thrown together for the classic bohemian edge.  Layers, layers, layers.

Purple, Purple, Purple – anything from lavender to rich orchid hues.  Go for monochromatic or a touch with lavender accessories.

Fall is Feline – hang on the leopard animal prints and mix them up with florals for an unconventional artistic feel.

Blacklight Neons – dazzle the streets with neons that are showstoppers alone or paired together for a statement look.

Soft Silky Satin – breathtaking style with not only the sleek look but with show-stopping neon hues.

Asymmetrical Necklines – the “I just threw it on” look is a good segue from off-shoulder tops. 

Quilty Pleasures – from boots to dresses to coats, patchwork is in.

Fleece – a winter staple, you can’t go wrong with a fleece jacket, pullover or vest.

Dark Romantic Florals and Ruffles – still a wardrobe must-have for winter.

Power Shoulders – the broad shoulders and the small waist silhouette is showing its face again.  You can snatch it up for smart business wear or a bedazzled evening dress.

Brighter, Bolder Accessories – trade-in neutrals for attention-grabbing color.  Red is still the go-to color.     

Itty Bitty Bags – combine with some other trends and make it snakeskin, animal print or red.

Feathers Everywhere – accents of feathers adorn everything from top to bottom including shoes and jeans.

Rhinestones, Sequins, Glitter – more is better on bags, belts gowns and hairpieces.

Chunky Chain Necklaces and Gallery Inspired Earrings - make a big splash with something artsy and eccentric.

Combat Boots – they’re back and clunkier than ever with maxi or miniskirts. 

Socks with Sandals – there is no holding back on this one.  What was once a fashion faux pas is now a fashion trendsetter. Sheer socks with strappy sandals or bright colors with platform slides.  The sky is the limit.

Get a little kooky and wild with your winter wardrobe.  Have some fun with it!

COSTUME IDEAS

Costume, costume, costume…  Are you wrestling with the big question: what do I wear for Halloween?  Wrestle no more “my little pretties”, check out what’s trendy and popular this year for Teens and Tweens; everything from keeping it creepy to casting your fashion spell. 

Individual or Couple Choices

Powerpuff Girls: pick your color, and don’t forget the matching shades.

Superhero:  take your pick from any of the latest like the Joker, Spiderman, Harley Quinn, Wonder Woman, Black Panther, Batwoman… pull it all together with spandex, tights and capes.

Disney Recent Releases:  Lion King, Aladdin and Toy Story are full of multiple good characters.  Lots of costumes available online and who knows what may be found in your little bros toybox. 

Queen and Elton John:  epic choices, but not for those faint of heart teens.  Browse some movie trailers for ideas and you can easily slay either of these.

The Royal Couples:  classy and great for you and your BFF and your siblings if they must tag along for a while.

The '70s: raid Grandma’s closet and hippify yourself with fringe, flares, headbands and definitely some peace signs.

Fairy Queens, Mermaids and Unicorns:  super tween choices and always destined to catch someone’s eye.  Makeup is the key here with lots of sparkles.  Watch some u-tube tutorials for makeup ideas.

Mean Girls:  a pink dress and some heels.  Look fly in the costume ladies, but please leave the “mean” at home.

Aliens and Robots: still popular and fun. Lots of room to be creative with supplies found around the house.

Halloween Classics:  Pirates, Vampires, Zombies, Witches, Ghosts and all other manner of Ghouls never go out of style.  The spookier the better.

Celebrity Fashion:  pick your number one celeb and mimic one of their signature looks. Spend some time in second-hand shops to find the right pieces and accessories to create your Beyoncé  or Lady Gaga costume.

Sports Fans:  Tennis and soccer have stolen some of the limelight this year.  Pick up a racket or soccer ball, roll out your tennis shoes and paint some old t-shirts.  Or choose your sport and let that be your guide.

Meme Time:  go as yourself in the future.  Add 20, 30 ,40 years and have some fun with this one.  Will your friends recognize you? 

Group Choices

Stranger Things and Game of Thrones cast:  Lots of costume pics and ideas online for dedicated fans.  Get together with friends and brainstorm some clever ideas.

Safari Animals:  Felines, snakes… animals of all kinds lurk in everyone’s closet thanks to the popularity of animal prints.  Get your wild on.

Have fun dressing up as your character and be safe out there!

How To Create Chic Classic Looks On A Budget

Does your Budget have your Style in a funk?  Is your Fashionista on hold?  Good News: You don’t have to sacrifice class to save money.  Check out these shopping and style strategies to help you be creative, an expert on all things chic and cheap and you’ll be surprised at what you can pull off. 

Inventory What You Have

We all tend to accumulate things that are never or rarely used. Take some time and face off with your closet. Ask yourself:

Do you have a ton of blue things, but no red? How about having 100 t-shirts but no date-worthy clothes? What about shoes? Are they all sandals? Tennis shoes? Worn out? Do you have pants you never wear because they need ironing?  Or you need to lose a few pounds?

Take everything out of the closet.  Look at every piece.  If you love it, it goes back in the closet.  If you don’t, put it in a pile for later…

Have Your Own Fashion Show

Put together some outfits.  Lay them all out with everything, shoes and accessories. See how many different combinations you can come up with.  Try them on and take pictures.  Maybe you aren’t very good at putting things together.  We all have at least one friend who can do it in a snap.  Invite her over and have some fun.  Chances are you’ll discover some sweet outfits that you’ve never thought of before.

Swap With Friends

Have a clothing swap party with your friends.  Everyone has stuff in their closet they don’t wear anymore, never have or are just sick of.  Maybe your friend has something nice but later decided that she really doesn’t like it. These can be an excellent source for fun additions to your wardrobe you may not normally look at in a store. Swapping clothes with your friends can give new life to unloved pieces and help everyone pick out new stuff to freshen up their collection.

Whatever you have left can be donated to a local thrift store or taken to a consignment store.  Get rid of it.

Shop For Classics

So, what exactly is a classic?  It differs from person to person and varies depending on your individual style.  Many people would describe it as something that you will wear over and over.  For instance, the LBD (little black dress).  Dress it down with boots and a jean jacket or dress it up with strappy heels and a signature necklace.  It is a staple piece that can be made into multiple outfits.  That makes it a classic.

Now that you’ve inventoried your closet its time to make a list of what classics you need to round out your look and what accessories you need to build up on to make those staples go farther.  The best way to dress fly on a budget is to buy fewer things. That’s why you have a list. 

Shop Sales, Clearance Racks and Discount Stores

Your favorite store has regular sales.  Make friends with an associate and get a heads up when they are happening.  Sign up for emails or messages that keep you informed.  Discount stores offer the latest end of the season extras at deeply discounted prices.

Shop Thrift Stores

Thrift stores have come a long way and with the availability of consignment stores, you can find a huge range of designer clothes on the cheap.  Thrifting, although more frustrating and difficult than shopping in a regular store, can turn up gems to add to your collection for rock-bottom prices.

Accessorize

Not many people can do a complete wardrobe overhaul each season. Instead of spending a fortune on new everything, invest in good staples that can last several seasons. Then, when a new trend hits, buy cheaper accessories to update your look.  Scarves, belts, bags, and snappy shoes can transform an outfit from yesterday into the latest look.

There is a lot more in your closet than you think when you shop and swap smart and use some creativity.

Great Outfits For Photoshoots

Are you feeling overwhelmed about what to wear for the upcoming photoshoot?  The stress is reminiscent of the night before the first day of school, isn’t it?  Allow me to take you through some basics that will help you choose the right outfits and ensure that you’ll look your best in your photos.

Timeless Tips:

• Choose classic pieces. The right outfit will look good 10-20 years from now and your face will be timeless.  Trendy clothing will date your photos.
• Wear solid colored clothing. Patterns tend to be a distraction, whether they are checks, stripes, or a band logo.  The point is to draw attention to your face, not away from it.
• Choose muted tones that are a bit subdued. Bright colors demand all the attention.
• Choose similar tones for your top and bottom (both dark or both light). Similar tones are slenderizing.
• Choose a top with sleeves at least to the elbow. This is not the time to go for strapless or spaghetti straps.  The more skin that is exposed dilutes the face.
• Choose long pants or a skirt below the knee. The same caution about exposed skin, but you also want to be able to be comfortable in a variety of poses such as kneeling. 
• Choose dark socks and footwear. This is not the time for white athletic shoes that draw the attention to your feet unless of course, you are wearing a uniform to go with it.
• Keep jewelry simple and minimalistic. The focus should not be on your necklace.
• Do your hair the way you’d normally do it while wearing these clothes. A beautiful updo with a pair of jeans doesn’t look authentic, but a ponytail does.   Let your hair look like you. 

You have your own style and you want to show it?  You can by making a few well thought out exceptions to the above guidelines. 

• Wear your go-to outfit. Everybody has one.  You will feel fabulous and your photos will be fabulous too.
• Add some pizzazz by focusing on textures like corduroy, lace, denim and knits mixed together.
• Mix it up with different styles and levels of dressiness: jeans, dresses or a formal.
• Add some flair with accessories. A hat or scarf, or a pop of color with a red bag or shoes.
• Always keep your photo location in mind. A monochromatic outfit that blends with a field of grass or structural lines that frame the face is simple ways to add style to your photos.
• Bring more outfits than you need. Have accessories ready in baggies. Have a friend or family member come along to help.
• Bring props for whatever your hobbies may be: music, sports, animals. If you are going to wear a uniform, bring the whole thing, including the equipment.

Last But Not Least Tips

• Get the undergarments right. Try all your outfits on with what you will be wearing under them.
• Lay everything out together. Including underwear, shoes and accessories.
• Iron your clothes and bring them on hangers. Wrinkles show up in photos.
• If you’d wear it on the first day of school, it reflects your unique personality and style and is a smart choice.

Fall Fashion Trends

Fall is officially just around the corner.   It is time to snap out of the summer mindset and wrap your head around getting your wardrobe geared up for the new season.  One of the great things about fall is how you can experiment with blending your summer and winter pieces into exciting new looks, while you thoughtfully shop to add some key new items that reflect this year’s style.

The Big Picture Trend for Fall is exaggerated styling and bold statement pieces.  Take a walk on the wild side with your wardrobe this year following these trends for Fall 2019:

Color

Together or separate, the Color Couple for fall is bright Orange and brilliant Pink.  Coral will make a strong finish, as well as shades of green from deep jade to softer teal.  Also expect to see various shades of purple, purple and more purple.

Romantic Styling

Puff Sleeves, Exaggerated Ruffles and Bow Finishes are all making a big splash this fall.  Dramatic and artistic detail that add a contemporary edge to the romantic look. 

Animal Prints

Although there is nothing new about animal prints, the new generation has taken on a wilder tone.  No longer considered to be neutral, purple snake-skin coats and zebra-print gowns are designed to stand out.

Punk Plaid

A classic staple in any wardrobe, plaid is showing itself this season in some new places: on shoes, bags and scarves.  A jazzy finish to any outfit.

Outerwear

Oversized Puffers for the “hot chocolate” days.  The puffier, the better.                                                               

Fuzzy Coats in the prettiest pastel colors that will definitely make you want to cuddle.                                                                  

Faux Fur stand-ins for the animal lovers who still need a little fur in their life.  

Trends that Continue

Cargo Pants still shine this fall, whether they are wide or slim.                                                                                   

Maxi Skirts go all out.  Dress them up or down for a country romantic or urban chic look.                                         

Socks with sandals can be cute with a boxy jacket and skirt.  Make sure the sandals are strappy.

Fall Fashion brings with it some inspiring new looks, as well as, the opportunity to ramp up some old ones.  Best of luck to all you Queens out there as you shop for and design your fall wardrobe.

Conquering Your Closet - 9 Helpful Tips To Organize Your Style

“What am I going to wear?” You've stood in front of your closet asking this question.

There is only one thing more frustrating than not knowing what to wear and that is not being able to find what you know you want to wear. Where is that black tank top you know is in your closet somewhere? *pulling hair out* Your ride will be here in 10 minutes and you can’t find the ….. fill in the blank. *pull more hair out*

To keep from losing your hair and cool, you need to get organized. You need a closet that you can open and see just what you’re looking for. Below are some tips and tricks to organize your closet so that it works for you instead of against you.

Sort and cull your wardrobe.

Look through every item and assess what you actually wear. If you haven’t worn it in over a year, it’s time to donate to your local charity. Take a look at your clothes and assess what you wear most, least, or not at all. If an item doesn’t fit any longer or is damaged, let it go too.

Store what is out of season

Let the season and frequency of use guide you to what to store and what to keep hanging in the closet. This will free up space and make it easier to spot the piece you’re looking for.

Organize by color and type

For example, shirts can be sorted first by sleeve length and then by shade. All of your options for pairing pieces in your wardrobe are easy to spot when you can see them by color and type.

Choose your hanger

Using one type of hanger will look neater and keep clothing at an even level. Use whatever type you prefer, wood, plastic or wire.

Fold items that stretch

Clothing like sweaters that will stretch out of shape on a hanger need to be folded and hung over the hanger or fold and put on a shelf if you have one. Place heavier items on the bottom of the stack. Arrange these items by function and color.  If your closet doesn’t have shelves, consider using part of your clothing rod for hanging canvas ones.

Hand garments inside out on hangers

To avoid those annoying bumps on your shoulders from garments hanging and stretching, turn them inside out and hang them. That way the bump will be on the inside…no bumps to be seen.

Manage accessories

Store bags, belts, ties, scarves, and other accessories in plain sight on hooks or racks, which can be attached to the inside of your closet door.

Use containers

For those items that can’t be hung consider a matching set of baskets—such as socks, undergarments, scarves or hats.

Have a system for storing shoes.

These are all good options:  shoe rack on the floor, a hanging shoe organizer, see-through plastic boxes, or original shoeboxes with photographs stapled to them to identify the boxes’ contents. Stow shoes you don’t wear frequently in labeled plastic boxes on a high shelf, in another closet, or under your bed.

It will take some time to get your closet organized but it will save you time in the long run. No more stress and no more hair pulling. You can knock this out on a Sunday afternoon.

Do you have some tricks or tips for your closet? We’d love for you to share them with us.

Back To School Fashion Trends 2019

It’s hard to believe but summer is almost gone. With fall fast approaching, we want to talk back to school fashion trends. Fall trends are calling for lots of color including bright neons and electric colors, bold accessories, layers and white after Labor Day! Master the perfect fall outfit by converting your spring and summer pieces into cooler temperature looks using the following trends and cute outfit ideas. You’ll be ready for the cold weather in style!

Fall Fashion Trends

Iridescent Accessories - are a hot item this fall including space-age metallic complete with a NASA logo patch.

Teeny Tiny Accessories - small purses and clutches that hold the minimal amount of essentials.

Boiler Suits and Jumpsuits - overalls with a lot more spunk. Add a belt or bandana around your neck or waist to personalize your look.

White after Labor Day - staple white pieces have a longer street life than just the summertime. Pair your favorite pieces with fall trends (this year, neons and leopard print) to keep them in season. Winter white booties are still an edgy addition anytime of year. Make sure to keep them clean.

Ultra Long Skirts, Maxi Skirts and Patterned Midi Skirts - are on the runway this year. The longer length can be intimidating but embrace the length with wild leopard print, bright sweater and simple boots.

Headbands With Blazers – a hot accessory in bold colors is a headband. Be creative and pair it with your edgiest look.

Blazers With Hoodies – Throw a blazer over your comfy hoodie to transform the cozy classic into a chic outfit. Combine this with your jeans, heels and you’ve kicked it up more than a few notches.

Head Wear – Grandma’s visor, wide brim hats, bucket hats and conductor hats are trending this fall.

Cardigan Tops - Cardigans are finally cool. Button yours all the way up to replace your favorite match-everything sweater.

Oversized Puffer Jackets - are still the rage. The bigger the better.

All Coral Everything

Biker Shorts Are Everywhere - Dressed up and down, this athletic piece can be kept sporty or paired with a blazer and heel to dress it up.

Cherry Red Accents – Like a cherry on top of your favorite ice cream sundae, this accessory ties together an outfit.t like the cherry-on-top of a sundae.

Sneakers With Anything - Wear your favorite gym shoes with a ruffled skirt or dress. Anything goes.

Other Trends This Fall:

• Neutral Animal Print
• Romantic Suiting
• Puff sleeves
• Exaggerated Ruffles
• High-Rise Cargo Pants
• Faux Fur
• Tracksuits
• Socks with Sandals