A Fashion Adventure With Color
March 29, 2011
One of my favorite things to incorporate this spring is color. I like wearing mostly muted tones with one brilliant item of color, it makes the item pop and keeps the color playful without being garish.
It can be difficult to wear some bright colors, but when you are wearing all black or all nude/cream tones then you have a safe canvas to play with. The color looks fresh and elegant.
THE LOOK:
Top: Club Monaco
Shorts: Ando Store, from yesstyle.com
Necklace: Nicaragua
The top is one I have had for a long time now, but always makes me think of a “safari” kind of feel. The necklace is a new addition I found during my travels in Esteli, Nicaragua. The shorts are from Ando Store on yesstyle.com and have been an item I have been anxious to wear! I love the color and style. The high waisted shorts with the button detail, and of course brilliant color, were a must have the moment I saw them.
I’ve been liking the high-waisted shorts lately, especially when done in this kind of style. They have a modern feel about them and are very feminine in the lines. They are fitted (so it doesn’t feel like something boyish or old). I have another pair from Marim, also from yesstyle.com, that are navy blue with a tie in the front. I like wearing these styles of shorts with either a blouse or a body suit.
When worn with a blouse, you get this volume on top that is subtle and playful, and when you wear them with a body suit, you get a completely lean and feminine line. Both are very different attitudes that allow you to get more out of your wardrobe from a single pair of shorts.
High waist skirts are a classic, but always make me think of the secretary look (not a bad thing, just a thing, lol). I like the high waist shorts look, especially in a style like this, because it is modern and youthful.
I also like adding some color into my wardrobe as spring is here. Right now the focus for me is a balance between volume and clean lines, and using color to accent otherwise nude/black basic colors. For spring I am trying to go more with the nude/white and a splash of color for my wardrobe combinations. How about you? Have you been on the fashion adventure with color?
Tall, Studded, and Fringed
March 18, 2011
Heels have certainly been climbing higher and higher, but style is important when it comes to keeping those heights in check. My latest two finds have been tall (14cm), studded, and fringed out! One is in a classic black with a lot of texture and movement while the other has a bold splash of red color.
The thing I like most about the fringe on the shoe pictured above from KVOLL is that the thin and elegant heel peeks through the different lengths of fringe. The shape is beautiful and has almost a feather quality look. The studs add a little rock and attitude into the mix of an otherwise simple and feminine shape. I feel like I have some rocking wings on my heels when I wear these shoes, and I know each step I make is a statement a the fringe dances!
KVOLL on yesstyle.com VIEW MORE FROM KVOLL
The shape and distribution is perfect. With higher heels we must beware of crossing that line into the stripper style of shoes- keep it soft and feminine in the lines. We aren’t looking to make that kind of statement.
If the taller heels are a concern to you, keep with the style of heel (or lack there of) that you are most comfortable with but look to explore the stud or fringe style. Studs and fringe are everywhere, either on their own or combined as seen in this shoe. For me it is less about the “fringe” and more about the texture and introduction of movement. I like how it breaks up the shape while maintaining clean and feminine lines.
TASSELED BACK PLATFORM STILETTOS from KVOLL on yesstyle.com
Enter color! Here we see a different use of the fringe as it is placed in a tassel on the heel. Studs keep the design in place as well as add that extra bit of attitude. Doesn’t that color just pop against he slim black line of the heel? I love it. It also comes in black or in all white which gives you another look.
I love it when I find a style of shoe that is comfortable and looks so different in another color- I’ll usually end up getting all of them so I can make the most of my wardrobe. Shoes go a long way when it comes to bringing an outfit together. Having some classic heels in a variety of colors let’s you really take your wardrobe to the next level.
I feel my most comfortable in a pair of high heels, but it was a nice little addition of KVOLL to place a soft pad as a part of the shoe. It is just a small touch for that added comfort as we adjust to thew skyscraper heels. I know I appreciate it! The red ones have it, too.
My first outfit of choice with these new killer heels? A black and gold cow-neck mini dress from Nabi! The dress has a “rocker” kind of feel to it which I see in the heels as well, so I thought why not go for it and rock it out with the fringed heel.
I know I will be having a lot of fun with this style. Have you explored the fringed or studded styles yet?
Neutral Colors Meet Texture
February 22, 2011
The neutral color palate- our classic basics when it comes to fashion. It’s a girls best friend right next to diamonds. Our beiges, whites, creams, and blacks give us a sense of soft femininity and elegance.
But what if we want to give the neutral factor a little more oomph? Some attitude, some of our own unique personality? Neutral color, meet texture!
Finding elements of texture in an outfit is an instant way to reinvent your look and get that oomph and wow. I love staying with a color and making the texture stand out. Having a solid color base makes the lace, tulle, or soft pattern really stand out. When you have a pattern or fabric that has a lot of volume like this, too many colors end up looking busy. No one wants to look like a confused mess, so make it simple and stay with a one color theme.
THE LOOK:
Layered Tulle Dress (Coffee) from MELISSA on yesstyle.com
In this tulle dress from Melissa I found on yesstyle.com, you have all sorts of texture on a single color theme- brown. See how the layers of the tulle skirt give volume and depth, then the fitted top stays within the brown/cream color theme and uses lace as the pattern and texture. Neutral has personality now, and it is fabulous!
And because I’m staying with a single color theme, this gives me the opportunity to use a bright colored lip to really stand out. You never want to have your make up match your outfit, and when you are wearing a lot of color then you want to keep the make up simple so as to not compete. But when you have a neutral color base as your look, then you can be more adventurous with the make up!
The tulle of the dress makes me feel like a doll, so I wanted to keep it chic with a classic bright red lip. You can see how the lip really stands out with the dress, and isn’t over the top. Because brown is such a soft and neutral shade, I could go even further and play with a purple or deep burgundy lip. This is a great thing to consider for those of you who love to play with make up.
Remember, neutral doesn’t have to mean boring. It is a whole new opportunity for you and your look!
New Boots for a New Year
January 31, 2011
This month not only starts the beginning of a new year but also a new decade. What better way to start than with a pair of new boots! This year I am thinking about embracing my favorite classic styles while bringing in a new edgy twist to keep looks new and interesting.
One of the things I’ve loved seeing this past year was classic hair updos and shapes made modern with volume- keep the design in mind but blow it up for a fierce, modern, and elegant look. I like to think along the same lines when it comes to fashion.
I love boots, but wanted something with more attitude this year. Yes, the sleek smooth fitted designs are nice.. but can be boring or expected. Enter in shape plus buckles and you’ve got a pair of roaring boots. These are definitely killer and liven up any simple dress.
Speaking of a simple dress- check out this black laced dress with a white layered design. I love the contrast on this classic shape. The black and white lace gives texture and the length of the dress is perfect for letting tall boots shine.
DRESS: SPICY HOLIC on yesstyle.com (Click Here to view more from SPICY HOLIC on yesstyle.com)
And now for a look into the shoes!
SHOES: KVOLL on yesstyle.com (Click Here to view more shoes and boots on yesstyle.com)
Shoes give a whole new life to your existing wardrobe- from adding a splash of color to adding an in your face fierce attitude. Remember the power of your accessories!
Things I like to see in my boots include lots of lace or lots of buckles, as well as an interesting but controlled shape. Boots this tall are tricky- you want them slightly scrunched but still with an overall shape. Because they are over the knee, without a good shape you lose the elegant lines of your calf. We don’t want to lose our ankles either!
I like how these boots hug the shape of the foot and ankle, then slowly start to swell along the shape of your calf, then finish with almost a bucket style coated in buckles with two flaps going over the knee- one in the front and one in the back. the space between the flaps shows skin and reveals your length and shape. I like that contrast and find the shape quite complimenting.
A convenient zipper on the side makes these easy to wear, too. I love lace ups but when I’m in a hurry, I appreciate the zipper.
Have you found the perfect boot to fit your style for the start of this year? The weather is perfect for a killer pair of boots- show off your fierce style.
Keeping Wild Prints Under Control
January 18, 2011
Love them or hate them, prints have a role in fashion. Floral prints are being seen more and more, particularly as spring approaches around the corner. But what about our animal side? Wild prints are tricky to keep under control, but when worn properly they have a stylish attitude that can make you proud.
Prints are bold, and animal prints stand out. There is no way around it. But how you wear these prints is key. Rule #1 is to stay away from the overwhelmed matchy look. You know you’ve seen it and it hurts to think about it. One bold item goes a long way, let’s compliment and not overwhelm the look. One piece is fabulous, a million is horrifying. Walk on the wild side the proper way and a bold fierce style is yours!
Take for instance this wonderful piece from Tokyo Fashion. What I love about this Zebra print is how the white is a soft white against the black- it almost looks like a dark brown and has this sophisticated but fun personality about it. It’s casual chic with a playful attitude. When you have a “too white” color against black, it can make you dizzy. This is just the right shade and with this loose fit it has a charming characteristic. The belt brings it all together saying “I am in control”.
Remember, keep the look chic- eliminate the shock.
Animal prints when worn correctly are beautiful, don’t lose the potential of this look. There are so many wonderful possibilities! I think prints like this zebra or a giraffe type print work well with delicate gold accessories. Wooden accessories look stunning with them as well. I think a chic safari style is a fun look to sport. The trick is to always keep it in line- don’t overdue it, keep it simple and beautiful!
Keep it simple and soft with the makeup, too. Think natural, maybe with a sun-kissed look. It makes the print more grown up and elegant. Soft natural colors keep the print under control and tamed.
A soft pretty pink lip is about as bold as I would go, at least for day look. If you are wearing dark lip do keep the eyes natural and the rest of the make up to a minimal (your basic make up rules, if dark eyes then a super natural toned down lip).
With the right attitude, you will be looking fierce! The goal is to have the complete finished look say “wow, amazing!” and not just the print itself. The print is only a part of your look. The same may be said of all fabrics- the fabric should compliment your whole look and not take the focus away from you. Compliment yourself and feel fabulous as you go about your day.
Discover your wild side!
Dress: TOKYO FASHION available on yesstyle.com
Brown: A Neutral Earthy Color For Fashion
December 26, 2010
Whenever I wear the color brown, nature like items come to mind. I think of the fall in the cooler temperatures, and I think about the flowers when spring comes around. Brown can be elegant and sophisticated, and it can also be whimsical, young, and playful. I tend to think of more serious looks when it comes to fall and winter, saving my more playful items for spring; but I recently found a dress that is a good mix of both worlds.
First of all, I love the texture. This controlled crinkled fabric is beautiful and adds a great character and charm to the dress. The soft beige bow keeps the look elegant and balances out the texture of the fabric. It is feminine and delicate- showing both youthful factors but in a very elegant manner.
BIJOU-GIRL Bow Accent Party Dress
available on yesstyle.com
In the fall and winter months, you can wear a dress like this with a beautiful coat or cape (or in my case, I decided to wear it with a vintage fur wrap since the neutral earthy tones went so well together), gloves, and maybe some more heavy decadent jewelry (I’m thinking gems here). Or you can wear it in the spring with a cream or white cardigan and sandals. The dress will look very different and have two very different attitudes. I love how neutral tones are really open to inserting your own personality.
This particular dress has subtle golden sparkles within the fabric, adding another feminine touch. I like to wear warm golden colors with brown. I think it looks more elegant, more rich.
When it comes to neutral shades, I like to wear my beige and cream tones in a more dainty delicate manner- really playing into the neutral shade. I like to wear soft make up, beige or delicate shoes (nothing chunky, unless it is a nude color that plays into the dress) and keep my jewelry very delicate as well. With brown I feel more experimental- more decadent. I’ll put my hair in an updo, I’ll have heavier make up, I’ll add heavier accessories and make the look more adult (as opposed to a doll child-like look, more grown up). How do you like to wear your neutral shades?
Lace and Frills: The Little Black Dress
December 21, 2010
This season we have been seeing a lot more texture, in particular sheer, lace, and mesh fabrics. They give hints of skin while still keeping strong with an elegant factor. The fabric flows and fits beautifully, and is open to many different types of styles.
Let’s explore the classic standard- the little black dress. When it comes to the holidays, we like to take it a little further. We want to remain looking elegant for our parties, but also to stand out. This dress from BIJOU-GIRL found on yessstyle.com is just the trick-
When you’re going from family events to parties with your friends, it can be difficult to find an outfit that meets all your needs. Some dresses you wouldn’t feel appropriate in with family, while others can be great for family but just not the right “it” factor with friends. We don’t all have time to change outfits when making our stops- so something that is classic and elegant but has that cute little twist will last us the night!
A dress like this stands out. Yes, it is all black- but the texture and silhouette really take it to another level. And the fitted lace portion of the dress adds a sexy factor that isn’t offensive- it’s all very pretty.
The ruffles are big but soft and dainty- nothing is over the top. When playing with lace and ruffles you want to make sure there is a fitted element to keep the look pretty and “simple”. Ruffles should accent your natural features- make sure there is a balance. Too much would make you look like a giant confused ball of fluff! Maintain your structure- if a dress has a lot of volume in the middle, then make sure your legs and arms are seen to show length. In this case, the ruffles are at the bottom of the dress, and the top is fitted with thin straps. I like this kind of contrast, heavy fabric on bottom, slim fit minimal fabric on top. This shows your skin in an elegant manner. This is a style of dress that compliments you.
BIJOU-GIRL Lace-Waist Hanky Hem Party Dress
I like to wear the dress on its own, the design is so simple and feminine I think it is strong that way. There are many opportunities for accessories, naturally. I would keep things on the feminine side (nothing too chunky, think thin delicate necklaces and earings). Dress it up with a nice coat or shall to keep yourself warm and you are ready for any event.
This dress also doesn’t scream “holiday” so it can be worn through different parts of the year. It is an absolute classic- with a darling twist!
Match Maker: Shoe And Dress Edition
November 18, 2010
Once upon a time I had a phase where if I could find the matching color shoe to an outfit- it was mine. No question about it. Many years have passed since that time and I must admit I have been following a trend of classic black shoes- gorgeous and interesting shoes, but primarily your classic tones.
So as time passed and I moved, my various colored shoes were placed into boxes and forgotten until now. Sad but true. I discovered this adorable frilly dress from TokyoFashion on yesstyle.com and had to have it. I wasn’t sure how I would wear it, but you always find a way to make it work. It was then I remembered that I had a pair of shoes this *exact* color. I’m not going to lie, I got excited. So like a crazy person I went through my boxes and found the shoes! I actually found them on the first try, I’m proud of myself for that. I cannot even remember where I got them… but they needed to be worn again! This dress is the perfect match.
Flutter-Sleeve Ruffle Chiffon Dress
I know it is winter and that pastels are the color of spring, but I must admit I like the contrast. I like to be a little different in my own way. Also, I cannot resist an outfit that makes me feel like a “doll”. Colors still work in the winter, they just have to be done in the right way. I think mixing up spring colors with the contrast of winter make up and accessories can be a fun challenge. It’s not an every day look of winter but it can be done. Colors I think really work in the winter, especially right now, would be something of a magenta or fushia color. I’m on the hunt for more dresses and shoes that pop with the right kind of color. There’s something that is just so beautiful about it, and makes everyday items look higher end.
I like reinventing looks within my closet. And I love how some of my favorite items can survive the trends of all the seasons. Right now color is on my mind. It will work for the current season and be ready for our spring and summer collections. Thus, you don’t have to feel guilty about a shoe or dress that can only be worn once, and now.
I challenge you to revisit some old favorites in your closet. Find something new to give the old item a new life. We all have treasures even we are unaware of. Go find yours!
Party Dress Obsession: Bijou-Girl
October 29, 2010
I took a risk. Really. This is something I normally wouldn’t do but I couldn’t resist. After all, if I waited I would have missed my chance and really been mad. I took a risk and came out more victorious than I had hoped. Such a win.
What was the risk you ask? The risk was purchasing multiple form fitting dresses from a designer I had never tried before. When it comes to fitted designs- its a huge hit or miss. The designs were beautiful, and if they would fit then I would want them all. I bought three and all I can say is wow am I ever happy!
Enter two beautiful dresses that just scream take me to a party. I am in love with BIJOU-GIRL! These dresses fit like an absolute dream. They are comfortable, and look amazing on. Definitely head turners. What’s nice is that they all have built in bra cups that are very comfortable and flattering. They also have a style in the back that acts like an elastic- thus you will have a form fitted style every time. It contours to your body perfectly. Gorgeous!
These two designs couldn’t be further apart in appearance or personality, but they are both to die for. The first is an adorable polka dot dress that is great for day time outside events or even a fun cocktail hour with the girls. Everything you do in this dress feels adorable!
I found BIJOU-GIRL on yesstyle.com where I do all of my shopping. You can be certain I’ll be going back for more from this designer. I’m really excited! You know how it is when you find something that fits fabulously, is comfortable, and looks one of a kind amazing. That’s where I am right now.
View This POLKA DOT Dress from BIJOU-GIRL on yesstyle.com
You can see in this next photo with the side view how the back stretches to fit you just right. With a beautiful bow in the front- how can you not help but smile? It’s cute!
Alright! From cute… we head on over to sexy! Both are head turners, just different personalities and styles. This next dress also from BIJOU-GIRL is one I fell in love with more in person than I did online. I thought it had potential when I saw it online, but the second I tried it on it became an instant favorite. It has that wow-factor written all over it.
It’s the little black dress with a sultry attitude- especially given the sheer mid-section design.
View This Sheer-Accent Strapless Cocktail Dress From BIJOU-GIRL on yesstyle.com
Yeah. It’s killer.
This one doesn’t have the back design, but the material stretches comfortably to your form. There’s no being shy with this one! It does have built in bra cups which I am thinking is a standard for Bijou-Girl. Normally I would stay away from such things but I like how they have implemented them. The placement is perfect and it makes it a no-worries dress. This means you don’t have to worry about the top sliding down or slightly revealing your bra *the worst*!
You can get ready in seconds and look briliant.
Cute and adorable? Sexy and vamp? Oh, yes. And more look in between. They have some elegant standards as well as some quirky cute pieces that are sure to get you noticed!
