Volume In Control: A Must Fashion Accessory
August 27, 2009
I love volume, and there is definitely a certain balance to be maintained in order for it to work wonders. There are also many options to be explored, and all of them have to do with playing around with the silhouette.
Dresses are a particular favorite of mine, and those cozy, voluminous, short ones that have been in style are a dream. Nothing like looking fabulous while being comfortable, some of them feel like silk or even as cozy as a blanket. My latest favorite, from STAR.MIMI, feels like silk against the skin. It is soft, delicate, and moves so elegantly. On it’s own, it has a good amount of volume that is in good balance because of the length (pictured above).
But what about those options? Volume is put into control with this must fashion accessory: the cinched waist belt.
Oh, the cinched waist belt, how I heart the many styles you give me. It is simple, yet can drastically change the silhouette and feel of a style. It is also my little cheat into being able to wear those cute tops and dresses that may be otherwise sold out in my size. The belt allows me to make it work- so brilliant.
I also love belts that come with an outfit- and then taking that belt to mix and match with the rest of my wardrobe. Ribbons make a great belt alternative as well. I don’t like letting good packaging go to waste!
A collection of belts leaves lots of room for creativity. And vintage belts are a thing of beauty. A simple top or dress gets a whole new personality in an instant. (Some belts.. especially the chain-like ones… depending on their weight, can also make crazy-awesome necklaces or chokers. Just a thought!)
I love the mix in fabrics on this dress- from incredibly soft cloth to a gorgeous silky shine. Fabulous. Both the STAR.MIMI dress and With Mocha heels are from yesstyle.com, I’m hooked on their products. Beautiful one-of-a-kind fashion that always keeps me in my style. And they have something for every personality and feel.
Nailene Gives Nails A New Look And Style
June 30, 2009
Having lovely nails is a necessity at all times- whether we are wearing nail polish or not. I know I prefer to have no nail polish over chipped nail polish at any time. Bad nails will ruin any fabulous look in an instant.
I am very grateful to have now discovered Nailene- not only are their products inexpensive but they are for the fashionista on the go. With fabulous press-on nails in beautiful designs, they also have many options for adding your own personal style into the mix. Like for instance, my new favorite toy:
This is the “French Tip Pen” and it comes in two colors- black or white. The beauty of this is how it makes applying a smooth line simple and quick. But do be aware that like anything else it takes some practice with your non dominant hand since it does act like a pen. I know I’ve gotten so used to a brush it took me a moment- but honestly by the second nail I forgot all about it and fell in love once again.
You could actually fill in the entire nail, too, if you wanted. I am going to explore the options available with this incredible tool- polka dots, little designs, stripes- oh so much to explore! A brush cannot give you that kind of flexibility or control. It applies smoothly with no glopping- just clean and beautiful.
Another luxury I have found out about this pen throughout the week is that as my nails do begin to chip, touching up takes seconds! It mixes in flawlessly and I can just fill in to missing pieces without anyone being the wiser. Love it.
If control is an issue for you they also offer these stickers you can put in place to provide a clean line. Just put them into place, swipe away with this nail polish pen- and you have a gorgeous look waiting for you.
The strips are great if you need them, though honestly I like to freehand it as I feel pretty comfortable and in control. It is especially nice, however, when you are in a hurry and don’t want to worry about it. There’s no excuse for bad nails, even on the rush.
I think I may use the stickers for playing with designs- placing them one over the other or next to each other for strips and zig zags. I’ll show you as I experiment and see what comes up.
They have so many fun options to play with, whether you are in a hurry or you have the time to really dress your nails up. I’ve been playing with some of their stickers they also offer- everything from little gems to pretty designs- just place them on the nail, layer a clear coat to keep it clean and in place, and you are done. I’ll give you a sneak peak at some of what I’ve done so far- but much more is to come soon.
Speak with you soon- if you start experimenting with your own ideas be sure to share them, I would love to see them!
Some Fashion Favorites Are Simple And Fabulous
June 27, 2009
What are some of your favorite fashion pieces in your wardrobe? For me, no matter how many new fabulous finds I discover, some of the oldest pieces still to this day will stand out to me. It doesn’t matter the name, the price, or where it was found- some of our favorite styles continue to treat us well each and every day when we need them most.
I have many pieces that do this for me, but yesterday I brought out a skirt I haven’t worn in ages. I love this skirt, and if I remember correctly it wasn’t much more than ten dollars in price. The color, ruffles, and movement always make me feel pretty and fabulous.
I decided to curl my hair to match the texture of the skirt, that way when I move there is balance and luxury in every step. I love it. And with a skirt as brilliant in color and texture as this, not much else is needed. It is simply bold and beautiful on its own.
Normally I will wear a fitted simple black top with this skirt, but I decided to bring out another fashion favorite of mine, though newer to my collection- a loose fit elegant black top. Both of these pieces are from forever 21, and I will combine them with my more expensive designer items all the time.
I love how the loose-fit black tops can go with anything- even with shorts they look so elegant and effortless. Not to mention how comfortable they are. Sometimes this style of top will fall off the shoulder, giving just a hint but it works so well the feel of the outfit. I don’t mind it at all. It just flows so naturally.
I also like the contrast of a smooth, flowing top with a basic structure matched up against a skirt that is rigid and uneven at the end. When it flows from one piece into the other it feels so lovely.
With a look like this I am ready for anything- running errands, enjoying an evening to myself, or going out for cocktails. The skirt is old but the top is new. I think there is always room to mix our old loves with our new ones when it comes to style. After all, that’s what makes it our own unique style.
Killer Gladiator High Heeled Sandals
June 19, 2009
How much do these shoes rock? Seriously! These are some killer haute heels and they just arrived for me to play with- ha ha, and I am having some fun.
The black straps are gorgeous and leave a bold impression on any style or look. With that bright red giving subtle flashes in each step, the look is even more glamorous.
These stunning heels are from “With Mocha” and called High Top Strap Sandals which are found on yesstyle.com. This was my first shoe purchase with them and I must say I am very pleased! The shoe chart was very accurate, so there were no worries there at all (phew)! It would have broken my heart otherwise. But look at these heels:
I love them! They are just stunning- I am looking forward to wearing them out tonight for an event. Definitely will make it a grand occasion.
I had them sent to my shoe person, which is something I do with all my heels that I know I will be wearing often. I add some padding to protect the shoe on the bottom and heel so they will last longer (after too many times of wishing I bought two of the same shoe because I loved it so much, this is my next best option to keep them in perfect condition).
I find it adds a lot of comfort and stability to a shoe as well. Now that these heels are ready and in hand- I am off to play!
Sneak Peak Into Style:
June 2, 2009
Alright, I normally wouldn’t do this but I am so excited I cannot help it! I was doing some shopping late last night and when I found these gems, I had to order them right away. My last purchase from this place completely impressed me and was beyond my expectations, so I am especially excited about this one!
First, I am only going to give you a glimpse of the shoes, this is my first shoe purchase with them and I will give you the honest details once they arrive. But check out these killer heels- haute.
I am in love with them already, and they were just what I was looking for. Everything about these killer heels is perfect and will definitely bring a bold and stylish statement to any outfit- any. Oh, I cannot wait to play with them!
Next! What actually brought me to browsing through the styles last night was this next selection. I love versatility in an item and seek it out in my wardrobe. Remember my vest on top of a vest? This next look is open to so many options it will be reinvented over and over again. Just look and see here below.
This dress is from Adela and is also found on YesStyle, along with all the selections featured in this post. I already have one dress from the Adela line and it is absolutely adorable, chic, and elegant. I’ll be showing it to you soon, too. What I remember especially about them is how beautiful the fabric was, it was nicely designed and very comfortable. So when I saw this dress, the smocked convertible chiffon pictured above, I was very excited.
It looks like a simple and elegant dress, right? But it doesn’t stop there, it is actually listed as a “skirt” and here is why:
See the double strand on the black dress- when it is left as a single long strand it becomes a very fashionable skirt, perfect for layers. Now, I wouldn’t wear it with a print t-shirt as pictured on the right, but I like the possibilities open- for instance maybe a button up short sleeve puffed shirt. I *do* very much like the flowy blouse with a matching vest though. What a sleek and simple look.
The dress, or “Smocked Convertible Chiffon Skirt”, comes in four colors to chose from, I chose the beige/cream one because I think I’ll personally get more use out of it. (I have so many black dresses as is, I think this color will stand out more in my closet with more variations to mix with).
Alright, these are my latest purchases that I am so excited about I had to tell you about them before they even arrive. You can be sure there will be a follow up post when they do! I’m feeling very confident about these gems.
All of these styles are from here if you would like to take a look for yourself- there is literally something for everyone. I love it. Also, you cannot beat the price.
Coming To You From The Future In Style
June 1, 2009
Every time I wear this dress I think, “the future” especially since Timothy has officially labled it the “I come from the future dress” ha ha. With a silver shine, shiny black belt, and unique collar- it definitely has a look and feel all to its own.
I found this fun little number some time ago at forever 21, and I still love wearing it now. It was the only thing like it at the time, and even now I still don’t see to many similar styles running around. I like having a look to myself, and this one is a fun one.
What I like about the dress, aside from the beautiful silver color, is the shape and design. I love how it has giant sleeves, a unique collar which can be closed or left open, a cinched waist that reveals the feminine form, and then builds up volume in the bottom of the dress. Volume and shape are things I love to play with in my fashion.
My silver heels passed away in an unfortunate rainy evening in South Beach, so until I find another I decided to wear my Michael Kors Grey bootie heels. Black pumps I think would also look lovely, but I felt like wearing my grays today. Ah, shoes.
For my hair, just a simple french twist with a clean puff on top. I added a headband for a final touch, it is there to look cute and has no other purpose in this instance! Timothy like’s to call this my “ballerina hair” which I can also agree with. I like the look, and it is elegant and comfortable at the same time. Lovely.
Oh Violet, Maternity- Really? Really??
April 15, 2009
I do love the color violet, and with my nails still in that gorgeous shade- maybe this dress and I were meant to be. I certainly was not expecting to discover it in this section! Maternity? Really? Yes, srlsy!
I’ll admit to occasionally finding a fun accessory or garment within the children’s section- they have some fashionable items these days; but when I was in Target and this dress caught my eye, I was all turned around. It was in the maternity section, and was intended for that in the design.
But it’s so cute! and has pockets and a bow, I had to try it on. And it is so adorable- soft as can be and comfortable (as would hopefully be expected), that it was a quick decision to buy it.
Also, it made me think of the times my old roommate, Savina, and I would shock the world with our eating abilities… and wear a comfortable empire waist dress for ease. As she would say, “you can eat whatever you want in this dress.” lol.
In all honesty I think this is an adorable dress and I am enjoying it now, just the way it is. No, I’m not pregnant- but it’s nice to know the style is out there. I’ll still enjoy it now regardless.
The stockings were a fun purchase and something I haven’t worn in a while- so I thought since I was already going out wearing maternity clothes, why not play for a day with the socks?
Someone I once worked with years ago had requested I bring these socks into style.. I don’t know that I would, or that I am going to continue to wear them by any means- but once in a while it certainly is fun! I am enjoying myself today- that’s for sure.
PS As I was walking out the door I grabbed some accessories to wear, don’t you just love it when things match? My favorite LOVEMADDS braclet was the perfect item to complete the look!
Very White With Lots Of Volume, A Marshmallow Dress
April 11, 2009
Mmmm.. marshmallows! Or marshmallow fashion I may need to say, that is certainly what I think of when I wear this dress. It is bright, white, and definitely very fluffy- a fun and playful little dress!
I bought this some time ago, back when I think Vogue had a special line for The Gap- remember the white voluminous dresses? Well this was one of them, and I adored wearing it. But once it went into the back of my closet during the winter months, I had forgotten about it. That is to say until now. It was some number of years ago but I am delighted to have discovered this dress once again.
It billows like an over-sized pillow case, but then stops short with a bow and ruffles finishing off as an adorable skirt. The short sleeves are giant puff balls, too- which I love. It may be big with volume in the core- but it still shows the arms, neck, and legs which keeps the feminine form alive. And that is also why it makes me think of a marshmallow- like a giant one with puffed sleeves and a ruffled skirt! Not a bad thing in this case, just a yummy and fun one.
Depending on how you move depends on how giant the puff of the dress will be- it moves very nicely and is incredibly comfortable. I love this dress, not a style I would wear on a daily basis but something that is delightful to wear from time to time. I love playing with silhouettes and volume, and especially with volume- balance is key. If this were a long dress, it wouldn’t work- it would then literally look like a pillow case!
But as it is now, it’s just right, playful but still feminine enough to wear and love.
And since I was wearing a white frilly dress with giant puff-ball sleeves, I couldn’t help but add an incredibly girly pink headband to go with it.
A bow, frills, puffed sleeves, and a pink headband? Definitely marshmallow sweet 
Attack Of The Spring Print Dress
April 8, 2009
Looking outside the window today it is just gorgeous, the sun is shining and there is a refreshingly cool breeze in the air- nothing too chilly, very comfortable in fact. With Easter just around the corner, I felt inspired to wear a bright and frilly spring dress.
Now, prints and floral designs can be very loud especially when on an incredibly flowy or frilly dress. Having said that, meet- the attack of the floral spring dress!
This is one of the pieces I picked up from forever twenty one, something about it caught my eye ( I know, how can you miss it?) and when I tried it on I had to have it. It is the way it moves- one of those dresses you just want to spin and twirl all day in. Very fun and very cheery. With spring and Easter in mind, this dress is just the attitude I am looking for.
Definitely a love it or hate it type of piece, but hey- sometimes its nice to feel like a child again (or maybe even just a doll).
Its a sunny day and I am having fun with it. After a couple cool days and look back into winter, I am welcoming back spring in full force.
