The Convertible Boot: Reaching New Heights
October 21, 2011
Winter is creeping in and you know what that means- it’s time to bring out the boots! With so many styles to consider, it can be hard to find just the right boot to meet your mood and particular outfit.
Well, consider this- instead of trying on a million different shoes looking to find the right one, get all of them in one. It’s the “Convertible Boot”. It’s a classic shape with tons of opportunities!
When I saw this I knew I had to take the challenge. As you can see there are many ways to wear this same heel, while changing the height of the boot as well as the design.
But I like to break the rules….and this boot lets me do it in all the right, stylish ways! The buckles you see on here are optional- you can take them off and add them to your other shoes (bonus) or tie them around these boots in as many ways as you can think of.
Scrunch up the boot and add some texture and shape along with your various heights. It’s the shoe that keeps on giving, like getting a new pair of shoes every single time you create a new look. It goes from chic, to grunge, to haute, to classic. I love it! Oh, and they are also very comfortable and warm. Function and design is always a welcoming bonus.
GET THIS LOOK:
The Convertible Boot from Lane172 available on yesstyle.com
So here are some styles I have been playing with:
The removable buckles really help to completely change the look and feel of the boot. I love how it can to to perfectly smooth and chic to really textured and “rock and roll”. And these are just with the shoes on their own- adding tights that are sheer or textured could be another thing to consider.
What’s your ideal boot height? With these you can custom the height to your ideal fit, making sure it flatters your legs in the best manner possible! And if you get bored, you can always change the look in flash 
*Quick Note: One thing I will recommend when ordering shoes from Lane 172 is that you order a size larger than you usually would. They run a bit small and for maximum comfort, a size up should fit you like a dream. I had a friend make the recommendation to me and I’m glad she told me! The next size up fits me exactly right.
Femme Fatale
September 27, 2011
THE JACKET:
Othermix: Sharp Shoulder Striped Jacket available on yesstyle.com
Whenever I decide to wear a bright bold red lipstick, I tend to keep the rest of my make up very nude and subtle. But this jacket screams attitude and inspired me to go with a more femme fatale look.
I didn’t want to go too dark on the eyes, so instead I went for some sharp lines that would define and open up the eyes. I used soft medium browns to blend around the eye and add some depth. Since the jacket has sharp wings, I wanted my eyes to have some sharp wings as well. I used just enough bronzer to contour my cheekbones, and then a soft pink blush on the cheeks themselves. Using multiple shades (such as a bronzer and a blush, or multiple blush colors) gives you more dimensions as well as a natural glow.
Because the focus of this look for me was about the eyes and lips, I used my favorite red shade: dominique from Stila. I’ve had a lot of people stop and ask me for the details on this color- now you know! Even with a red shade, I like to use a lip liner that matches closely with my natural lip color. It makes it easier for me to line the lips, not to mention more comfortable. I feel it is more forgiving, and it provides as a good foundation for the color. You can of course use a color to go along with your lipstick, this is just what I prefer to do.
When it comes to the eyes, I like to use a cream eye liner with a brush. I find that the cream is smooth to apply and the brush gives me more control and accuracy. It is also more forgiving if mistakes are made. If you do make a mistake, let it set and then either use a q-tip with some make up remover or face moisturizer, and erase your mistakes. A make up artist recently taught me another trick- you can use your brow brush to brush off the mascara or eyeliner spot once it dries- it flakes right off.
THE MAKEUP:
Concealer: Calvin Klein Endless Creme Concealer
Eyeliner: Bobbi Brown Long Wear Eyeliner
Eyeshadow: KATE Brown Collection Eye Shadow and Brow
Bronzer, Lipstick, & Lip liner: Stila (lipstick color: dominique)
TIP: Remember concealer is just for concealing little spots and dark circles. You want to make the concealer blend in with your skin and only on those necessary spots- not your entire face. Let your skin breathe and be beautiful on its own, concealer is just a helpful assistant to your keep your skin looking and feeling natural.
I like to begin with a nice oil free, alcohol free, face moisturizer. From there I move on to concealer under the eyes and in any other little areas that need a touch up. I then brush my brows and depending on the look will fill them in for more definition. Because of my bangs, I tend to just brush them and keep it pretty simple since they will be hidden anyway. If your eyebrows are visible, you will want to make sure they are groomed. Your eyebrows can completely change your look.
Now that the face is set, we are on to the look. I like to do my cheeks next.
To contour the cheekbones, take your brush from your ear and move towards the lips- but stop before you get there (about an inch or so before). This gives an illusion of more depth and makes your cheekbones look more prominent. Add some blush on the cheeks and you are ready for the next step.
*If you tend to be messy with your eyeshadow, you can wait and do your cheeks after. To avoid excess eyeshadow, tap the brush after you have your eyeshadow color, then apply for a more flawless look.
For this look, I like to begin with a soft skin tone (or slightly lighter than my skin tone) shade to cover the eye and use as my base. Then I use a dark brown on the corner of my eyes. I make a small triangle where my eyeliner will be, and blend it forward until it fades in the front. I want the shadow to be darkest on the ends and lightest in the front. On the bottom lash line, I add line of dark shadow about halfway or two thirds of the way. Next I blend in a medium brown, still keeping it darkest on the corner, and working it into my crease. I blend the two together until I get the depth and definition I am looking for. I try to keep the medium brown shade in line with the line of my eyebrow- not touching it but following the same shape with my eye’s natural shape. If needed, I’ll add a light shade on the center of my eye lid and at the top just beneath my brow for some highlights. Adding definition to the crease will assist in the look standing out as well.
Once the blend is where I want it, I add the eyeliner. I make a long smooth stroke from the inside corner of my eye, and work my way out just past the other corner of my eye. This is the “wing”. I connect the wing with the bottom lash line, and come about a third of the way in.
For a more dramatic and eye opening look, I add white eyeliner to my tear duct. Next you curl your lashes and add mascara. I like to curl my eyelashes three times- at the base, in the middle, and at the ends. Then I apply my mascara by starting at the base, and moving the brush from side to side as I slowly move up to the ends of the lash. I feel it gives more volume and lengthens the look of your lashes.
Line your lips to create the perfect shape- either making them sharp or more voluminous, and finally add the color!
Enter your closet- find something chic or edgy, and style away for a fabulous look!
Must Have Look: The Boyfriend Shirt
August 1, 2011
This is a simple clean look with a powerful statement. It’s carefree but controlled with a subtle sexy feel. It’s “the boyfriend shirt” fitted properly for the female form. I’ve been hunting for the perfect boyfriend shirt for some time now, hoping to wear it as a dress or with some leggings and some heels. Then I found it- the shirt I had been dreaming of! It’s from yeomong on yesstyle.com and is exactly what I have been wanting.
The material is soft and delicate (as well as very comfortable) and falls beautifully against the feminine form. Because it is longer in the back it wears really well with a pair of shorts. Just tuck in the front and let the rest flow- adding more to that sexy flair. It could be worn with leggings, too, but with the heat of the summer still out I found shorts to be the perfect route. Add a pair of classic black heels and you are in business.
Another way to wear this look is with lots of long necklaces and bracelets, then maybe some more grunge styled boots. From Classy to Rock and Roll- there are plenty of ways to make this look your own.
I’m excited. When I find a piece that I really like I tend to buy several and in every color. I know my next purchase will be the same shirt in black- then maybe wear it with either jeans or with beige shorts and beige heels to reverse the look I have here. It’s my new favorite look!
Sleeve Inspired
July 24, 2011
Get The Look:
Layered-Hem Fringed Tunic from Othermix available on yesstyle.com
My latest obsession is all about sleeves. Whether it is pure volume, interesting textures, abstract designs, or even off to one side- it is an instant attention grabber and gives a new shape to your style.
Take for instance these sleeves from Othermix available on yesstyle.com. They are fabulous with fringe and balanced out with sheer fabric so that the arms are still visible. This gives you volume but also reveals the feminine shape. With sleeves this big, you want to make sure you don’t turn into a block of fabric- make sure there is still an elegant form. When it comes to sleeves- think about the movement the fabric will make as you walk, the silhouettes you are creating, and the overall shape that compliments to your natural body.
Make things interesting and get creative with different forms. They don’t have to be big to be interesting, sometimes something as subtle as a winged corner, like a horn, on the shoulder can give you an edgy and daring look. Here are some styles I have my eye on for inspiration. All of these looks are from Othermix and are available on yesstyle.com. I adore their sense of style and creativity, as well as their use of color. With designs like these it is easy to look like an instant fashion icon.
Click Here to view more from Othermix!
Rosettes + Chiffon: Beauty!
May 27, 2011
THE LOOK:
OOPSLADY Sleeveless Rosette Accent Chiffon Dress from yesstyle.com
I’m obsessed with lace, chiffon, tulle, ruffles, anything sheer, and now- rosettes! Not just any rosettes… no one wants to look like they got covered in party invitation decor, but rosettes that make up an elegant accent to a design. I like rosettes that are created in a subtle fashion that compliments an outfit and takes it to another level. Subtly can be bold. That’s what I am after here. Soft delicate textures that make a strong, feminine statement.
In this dress, I have a mix of many of my favorite things! It is ruffled at the ends, a chiffon material, sheer on top, and has brilliantly placed ruffles. It is delicate and fierce all in one. The length is short, but it also has volume. Honestly, I’m thinking of wearing another skirt underneath this dress to really embellish the volume.
It is sleeveless and sheer on top, and because of the short length the volume can be out there. Your showing your limbs and thus your figure. I like the contrast. It is all about playing with silhouettes and keeping the look as a whole in balance.
Just look how the fabric falls naturally. It is elegant and takes the little black dress to a higher level. Definitely wear your hair up in a dress like this, otherwise you lose the detail of the back. If you have long dark hair like me, then you may feel like the volume on top gets a little heavy with the volume of the dress itself (dark on dark all melts together, and we want to look elegant, not… well, not the alternative!). I think a natural wavy styled hair could work if you want to wear it down, so long as the hair moves and the texture is different. But why not show the dress off? Play with an up do, twist your hair into rosettes even! Keep it fun and interesting.
Something else that appeals to me about this dress is that it slightly resembles lingerie. There’s something great about that feeling, like you are breaking the rules and wearing a nightgown out in public – and looking fabulous doing it.
Normally, I would wear a simple black heel, but I couldn’t resist showing these shoes off and sharing them with you! They are from KVOLL and are actually a simple black heel with an accessory.This means you can wear it simple, or dress it up with some attitude. The studs are like a bracelet for your ankles and since they are not attached to the shoe, you can wear it with any of the existing shoes in your collection. Those are some serious options. Yeah, that really rocks!
I’ve been very fond of KVOLL‘s shoes, they are so different and the inexpensive price tag allows for more to play with at home. I like to have shoes in every color (I’m trying!) and they make that possible for me. Some colors aren’t practicable for daily wear, but when they are inexpensive and incredibly cute it doesn’t matter. And I love saying “yes” to more shoes!
In fact.. I just found a pair that will match this dress perfectly! I’m so excited. I ordered them in black to match my dress.. but the pink ones are pretty tempting, too! I’ll share the photos once they arrive, but in the meantime you can get a sneak peak of them for yourself here: KVOLL Chiffon Pedal Platform Sandals.
Caped Crusader
April 22, 2011
I have always said that if ever I could be a “super hero” for a day- I would be the villain. Absolutely I would! And I have discovered just the dress to make me feel like a fashionable villain for a day- (note: I must admit I fall in love with a well done cape as much as I do tulle or lace!)
Take a classic black dress- fitted comfortably to show off your figure, then add wings or a cape to be used as sleeves. Pull your hair up into a high chignon (or leave it down to mix with the cape as the wind carries it), add some red lipstick and a pair of killer heels- you are ready to go!
THE LOOK:
Cape Overlaid V-Neck Dress from SARAH on yesstyle.com
This dress looks *fabulous* when you walk. The “cape” portion of the dress is technically two pieces- one layer of cloth covering each arm, but with enough fabric to meet with some in the front and back. This means with a little wind, each step these “capes” fly in the air and make you look like you are ready to take over the world. Very fierce!
This is one of those dresses that makes me feel like I just walked off the runway. Because you have the cape divided into two separate pieces, you get the “wow” factor of the movement in the wind, but you also get to play around with how it looks when you are still. Keep one arm exposed- both, or none. Change it up throughout the day and just have fun with it!
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!
Fashion Trend: All About the Cape
October 14, 2010
The weather is slowly starting to cool- but not cold enough for those gorgeous layered coats just yet. In my search to keep comfortable against the breeze and keep a fashionable attire I have discovered the cape!
There are some gorgeous capes out there- and not your traditional blocking shape. With the right material and design you can create fabulous looks that are sure to gain attention. Because we are talking about a big space of fabric- keep sheer in mind. This one in particular is an oversized chiffon cardigan from STAR.MIMI on yesstyle.com and though directly on seems solid- with a little sunlight behind you your silhouette shines through as the wind keeps the fabric moving. I love it!
It is probably meant to be worn symmetrically but I like wearing it off the shoulder to give it more shape and interest. But that just means it is open to possibilities. Mix in some cool leggings or some long necklaces. Go at it and make it your own. I have my eye on same lace capes, too, with beautiful collars.
No more does a cape have to be a boring solid block of fabric. It’s gone inventive and is creating to die for styles.
I’m anxious for my next cape! Hopefully I can even find one with an oversized hood, I think that would be fabulous. It is so feminine and the volume of fabric is is sultry when done correctly. The cape has a personality for everyone- from sexy, chic, and feminine to cutsie adorable. You can even mix in a level of grunge to the matter.
How will you make the cape look your own?
Casual Chic
September 12, 2010
As a dress and heels kinda girl, when it comes to dressing “casual” I have to find a way to make it interesting for my own sake. The direction I like to go in for the most part has to do with playing with lines and in particular: silhouettes and volume.
For instance, take this look here:
A blue and white striped casual pattern on a shirt- but not just any typical shirt. A shirt with dolman sleeves! I like the contrast of the big volume you have up top paired with fitted short beige shorts. Neutral tones, but a very different and unique style. This particular top is from I’Miusa which I found on yesstyle.com and has optional buttons on the back. This allows for a more fitted waist, but I like the billowing volume. If I was wearing a skirt or pleated shorts I may consider tightening the middle, but for now I’m enjoying the big volume up top and the tight slender lines at the bottom.
Since I was wearing beige shorts, I also decided to bring out my KVOLL boots for perfect match and an added edge factor. To soften the look and keep things “chic” I wore my new necklace from MyLittleThing also found on yesstyle.com. MyLittleThing makes a lot of delicate feminine pieces that have an old almost vintage kind of look and feel to them. I love the charm these accessories bring to an outfit. This one is a white beaded strand which holds a key and clock charm- adorable!
So adorable it inspired me to bring my bangs to the side and curl my hair (a softer look since my straight hair and bangs can be harsh- a good fashion harsh but just not what I am looking for in this style). I decided to take some photos while driving about town (as a passenger) with my new phone camera:
