Spring Trends 2013!

Today, March 20, marks the arrival of spring! Hurray! This winter has dragged on for far too long and yielded far too little snow to be worthwhile (at least in central NJ). I am SO ready for spring to be here with its warmer climates, beautiful blooming flowers, and overall much more cheery disposition. And with the onset of a new season comes the arrival of new trends to pine after and purchase, so here are a few you are likely to see:

1. Black & White - Out with the old fashion rules that declare white is a summer color and black only rears its stark head during the winter. This look is everywhere this spring. The idea here is to let the contrast black and white naturally create do the talking for you. Whether it is as simple as a color block jogging suit or amped up via stripes (think referee-wear), this trend is easy and user friendly.

2. Not-So-Basic Sheath Dresses - I am thrilled about this. Sheath dresses are so simple and comfortable to wear. When fitted properly, they are literally effortless to pull off. I own a few and plan to wear them incessantly this spring (or as long as my baby bump allows). And, brought to life with exciting, bright prints, you can't go wrong!




3. Structured Bags - The slouchy hobo has been replaced. Trendsetters are now donning more boxy-shaped handbags. I am currently drooling over this Michael Kors bag. It is a bang for the buck as it incorporates 3 popular trends in one accessory: stripes, blue (very prevalent this season), and structure. Do you think I could get away with adding it to the baby registry? ;)



4. Sunglasses - We are all so tired of the drab and ugliness of winter (especially that of one without much snow), so it seems as if designers are incorporating bright colors into everything to help ring in the new season. Sunglasses are no exception. I am particularly excited about this trend as buying clothes is more difficult now, and accessories are always a great alternative way to utilize a trend.

5. Sheer Blouses - In my present child-bearing state, I'll be foregoing this one, but if you can rock it, go for it! Nevertheless, I warn you - handle with care. It is easy to overdo it on this one and end up looking more skanky than chic.

6. Mint Green - While this color does not really work for my color palette, I find it incredibly appealing for those that do fit the bill. In addition to this lovely spearmint shade, many other pastels are in full bloom this spring - pale yellows, muted corals, and happy pinks. And, I do have an affinity for the continuing trend of tuxedo jackets from last season as pictured below, so who knows? Maybe I'll get lucky!

 

7. Flats & Low Heels - Spring and summer carry an easy, laid-back vibe, so it's no wonder that such a mindset is reflected in the footwear trend of this season. But in an effort to make all things new, designers are going for pointy flats as opposed to the traditional rounded variety and chunkier heels. Your feet will thank you. :)



Spring is a lovely time of year that serves as the epoch of all things in nature becoming new. I have decided that "Make It New" will be my fashion mantra over the course of the next few months. As always, it is best not go on a shopping spree every new season and buy a brand new wardrobe every 3-4 months. Rather, take stock of what you have already and "re-mix" it as People StyleWatch says. With a little bit of thought and a new piece or two here and there, you can create wonderful new looks that give you a fresh take on life and your wardrobe! Good luck & happy spring!

Make It Count!!

Readers, I feel badly that I have not posted recently; however, I will not apologize as some things do tend to fall by the way side for a time when one discovers she is expecting. :) About a week after my last post, my husband and I found out that I was pregnant! Between the subsequent holidays and the ever-continuing life adjustments, the frequency of my blogging has not been where I would like it to be. Nevertheless, I am going to do my best to continue writing as it is a creative outlet I truly enjoy.

Unsurprisingly, this blog does stem from a train of thought that has been and is at the forefront of my mind since I learned my body was no longer my own. Proper nutrition during pregnancy is of utmost importance - duh! A brand new life is being formed within the confines of your body, and he/she needs certain, varied, and plentiful nutrients to develop well.

As I read various paraphernalia specifically relating to diet and nutrition during pregnancy, the authors are so kind as to encourage expectant mothers to eat small meals 5-6x per day (to prevent sour stomach, gas, and bloat among other things) and to mix up the foods in their diets so as to insure their bodies are receiving the building blocks of life, vital to their newborn. Moreover, in almost all cases, the writers also contest that such habits are important to continue even after giving birth to promote overall good health. They could not be more right-on!

The key to having a good diet is simply to make it count! Your body craves a proper balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and other nutrients to function at its best. You won't achieve this balance by eating crap. You have to make every bite count! Not all foods are created equal. One cup of Fruit Loops does not have the same nutritional value or sustaining power as does one cup of oatmeal with brown sugar. An apple with peanut butter does not pack the same punch as four Oreos. It's not rocket science.

I realize that some people abhor the idea of feasting on fruits and veggies and cringe at the idea of taking a more healthy approach to eating (i.e. "dieting). But, simple choices made repeatedly go a long way. Instead of Fruit Loops, opt for oatmeal. Instead of six slices of roast beef on your sandwich with a bag of potato chips, go with four slices of turkey breast and an apple. Each decision when it comes to food can be one more nail in the coffin (to put it bluntly) or one for the beautiful structure you are working to sustain.

You have one life to live and one body to do it in. Why not give it your best shot? Now that is not to say, life must be all celery sticks and no creme brule. There is a time and place for every food item; after all, food exists so that it can be enjoyed! You just need to keep everything in balance; this is the key.

I am entering my second trimester and have noticed that in this last week I am seemingly more hungry than before. In my case, this is expected and normal. But rather than gorging myself on unsatisfying and nutritionally deficient junk food, I am going to continue to attempt to make food choices that truly count and afford both my growing baby and I the best nutrition possible. I can't do much for my baby right now other than take the very best care of myself, and that primarily revolves around what I eat. Therefore, it is imperative that I make every bite count! You should, too!