Trends for Spring 2012

I am LOVING the odd winter we are having - the lack of snow, the warmer temperatures, the crisp, cold breezes. (Perfect for backyard Zumba). :) Sunny days such as today make me look forward to spring all the more, and of course that means a whole new list of fashion picks to oogle and drool over.

As defined by People Style Watch, here are the top 10 trends that you have to look forward to:

1. Colorblocking - This bold trend has carried over from last year and remains at the forefront of popular fashion. You can DIY or just purchase a piece that showcases it. It really encourages the mixing of bursts of color in a pulled-together, chic way. Snazzy! (Yep, I said snazzy).

2. Day Clutches - I want one!!!!!! I am still a huge fan of the envelope style clutch, and I have yet to purchase one. Day clutches are so fun because depending on their look, they can easily go from day to night, from casual to more dressy. I am a huge fan of this metallic clutch by Milly, $174.90 at Nordstrom's. It can add a little luxe to a cute t-shirt and jeans outfit or accentuate a stunning LBD. You can't lose!

3. Ankle-strap heels - Worn thick or more narrow, this dainty footwear option adds a feminine touch to your wardrobe.

4.  Mint Green - I am trying really hard with this one, but I am just not one for pastels. Nevertheless, I will not completely throw it out. In fact, I recently gave a friend some mint colored nail polish to help her phalanges stay on trend this spring. :) You can't rock them all, so you must get creative in the ways you incorporate trends. Fresh creativity - that is the name of the game!

5. Leather - It doesn't have to be black! In fact, it's better if its not! Rock the look on dresses or with mixed material tops. Of course, jackets are A-OK, too. I have kept my eye on this faux leather jacket by Worthington ($40 at JCPenney). The luscious caramel color makes it incredibly versatile. The lack of a collar also adds sleek appeal.

 6. Blue & Green Jewelry - Life on the high seas has left it's mark on popular fashion. Nautical whimsy is very in right now, so of course one "must have" the accessories to go along with it. Paired with basic, unfussy pieces - crisp white tees, dark blue denim - blue and green jewelry adds just enough pop to add interest and glam. Or, alongside dressier, yet still neutral pieces, it can really standout as it did for Eva Mendes at the Golden Globes.

 7. Florals - Florals were quite popular last year; now, the prints are getting bigger and bolder. Why not? Flowers are gorgeous! I'm jumping into this trend full force. Unimpressed by what I have been seeing in stores lately, I decided I would no longer wait for someone to create something I like; I will make it myself. So, I bought this lovely daisy print fabric and will be making a pencil skirt with it. I'm rather excited about the project and the opportunity to sew again. Stay tuned for the results!

8. Peplums - I'm covered! A few weeks ago, wanting to award myself for a hard week at work, I did a bit of shopping and stumbled across this white peplum tank at New York & Company. I was amazed at how good it looked on me and how it minimized my pear-shaped frame. Originally priced at $42.95, I snagged mine during a super sale for $8.49!!!!!! Boo yah! It totally pays to be a bargain shopper. :) Nevertheless, keep in mind that if you're gonna flaunt it, make sure you keep everything else in proportion. Pencil skirts are a great option.

9. Metallic Heels - Gold and silver shoes are like gold and silver jewelry. No matter what you're wearing them with, they pair perfectly. Treat them like neutrals with pizazz! And as far as the style of shoe, anything goes! Get a pair with an ankle strap like these by Nine West and sport two trends at once! They happen to be on sale at 6pm.com for $27.60, 60% off MSRP! (They will also pair nicely with your Milly day clutch).

10. Neon - Brace yourself! It is in every part of your closet - tops, bottoms, shoes, accessories, even makeup! Many who are brave enough to don shades of hot pink, chartreuse, and vibrant orange will take a minimalist approach. But you can go all out, making a magenta dress with simple neautral accessories you're fashion forward statement for the evening. Or, enliven a white/black ensemble with a super sunny blazer! Neon is about fun, so why not have fun with it!?

Blake Lively	Kim Kardashian

Alright folks, there you have it! 10 trends for spring 2012! They will likely carry you right into summer, too! Have fun! Be brave! Be bold! Be you! Spring, keep comin'!

Closet Purge

The frivolity of the New Year has passed. In fact, the first month of the year is nearly over! Why wait until spring to "clean up your act?" I think the New Year offers a great opportunity to clean out your closet! Here are some tips I have come across to help you in the potentially pain-staking and painful process.

Sort it out.

There are those pieces that you cannot do without; you love and live in them. Keep 'em, but organize them in a way that makes sense for you - by type (tee vs. tank), color, or occasion (casual, dressy, essentials). Having some sort of organization makes for easier wardrobe choices later on and when you're in a hurry.

Then, there are things in your wardrobe that have not seen the light of day in at least a year or more. These are easy tosses. Unless they have some great sentimental value, they can head straight to the donation pile. (Emotional attachment is grounds to go to the "maybe" pile; however, when you get to the point where you need to choose yes/no, be brutally realistic). 

Also, things that do not fit any more or are very worn (think pulled fabric, armpit stains, holes, etc.) are easy to eliminate. I cleared about 4 hangers getting rid of stuff that has become too big on me; too big = ill fitting = not flattering = not for me. Out it goes!

If you're like any other woman, you've likely accumulated quite a number of shoes and bags. Treat them as you would your clothes. Ask yourself: When was the last time you wore them? Do they fit? Can you stand in them, or do they cripple you in a matter of minutes? Are they wearable with the rest of your wardrobe? How many pairs of flip flops do you really need? Again, approaching your items with a realistic, practical perspective safeguards you from holding on to things you really don't need.

Along those lines, assess quantity. How many __________ (tees, skirts, pairs of jeans, hoodies) do you really need? Perhaps a more recently purchased item can officially replace an older one. 

This tip I cannot take credit for, but is perhaps my favorite. Borrowed from Style Me Thrifty: "Keep a notepad handy as you go through your wardrobe. Make a wish list of new pieces of clothing or accessories that might breathe new life back into an outfit. A skinny belt, long necklace, or nude pumps might be just want you need to tie a couple outfits together. " I do this all the time, not just when I'm purging my dresser drawers. I create a "Wish List" so that when I feel the urge to shop (which is often weekly), I can go with purpose and settle on something my wardrobe "needs" rather than something I impulsively like.

Hopefully, these tips will get you on the way to a more organized, accessible wardrobe. Sifting through your clothes periodically is quite helpful, especially as the seasons change. Sometimes, you've forgotten about that great halter top you can effortless rock this summer or those great cords you snagged right at the end of the fall/winter season last year. Knowing what you have is half the battle. Utilizing as many wardrobe pieces as possible and creating knock out looks in clothes you feel confident wearing is the sweet victory. :)

Happy New Year!!

So many use this time of year to "get back on track." I say, work to never fall off track!! True, easier said than done, but not if you approach your goals realistically. Here a few easy-to-incorporate tips to help you get started.

Tip 1: Be realistic. Set small goals that can be achieved - not easily necessarily, but make them doable. Determining to lose ALL of the extra pounds that were added to your waistline over the course of 2011 by the end of January is a recipe for failure.  Sure, a crash diet may produce those kinds of results, but they will never last. Also, once you achieve your smaller goals, you can set new, small ones, and as you achieve those, all of the small achievements you've made will add up. All the while, you will have incrementally changed your life habits, which will make for a lasting effect. Hello, success!

Tip 2: Drink more water. (I am scrambling for my Nalgene as I write this). Your body is 70% water, and that water needs to be replenished and refreshed. Plus, it helps all of your body's systems run smoothly. So simple a task. So often neglected.

Tip 3: Eat less processed foods. Processed foods often contain excess sugar or salt that you can just do without. Stick to natural, whole foods - fruits and vegetables. Or when it comes to other snacks, create your own so you have control over it's contents - make your own granola bars, trail mixes, cheese and crackers. The less of your food that is manufactured, the better.

Tip 4: MOVE! Put in exercise wherever, however, whenever you can. Park farther from your job's entrance. Take stairs rather than the elevator. Do an extra lap around the grocery store as you think of any other items you may have missed. Do an exercise DVD. Invest in a Wii and play! It doesn't even need to be a "fitness" game; there are quite a few that just get you up and moving. Take a walk. I know, it's not hard to figure out what to do, but more difficult to actually DO it. But if healthy living is a priority, you can make it happen!

Tip 5: Eat often; keep your metabolism running. Aim to eat every 3-4 hours. Have small snacks between each meal that combine protein, fiber, and healthy fats. They will keep you feeling full, energized, and well nourished. If you stick to three meals a day, or even eat frequently but in an unbalanced manner, you'll do yourself a disservice. You'll lose out on natural burn time that you don't even have to work for! Plus, if you're like me and love food, eating more frequently offers more opportunities to nosh on the foods you love. Granted, you will need to exercise portion control; however, since you'll be able to eat more often, you won't feel as compelled to eat so much in one sitting.

I have to say that 2011 was a good year for me as far as healthy living is concerned. I have dropped a few pounds since last January and have toned up a good deal. Certainly, teaching Zumba has helped a lot towards this end. Nevertheless, I acknowledge that I am where I am because of the diligence with which I approach diet and exercise.

You can't just "diet;" you must make it a lifestyle. Then and only then will you find true success. The number on the scale will matter less, and it will revolve more around how you feel in your own skin. When you're actively taking care of yourself, you can live guiltless, free, confident. That is not to say you won't have a bad day every so often; we all do. But keep your perspective on your journey as a whole, not on one single trip-up when you have countless other steps logged that have moved you in a positive direction.

I wish you the best in 2012. I hope you can put these tips to good use. Even if you only endeavor to incorporate one into your already busy life, something is always better than nothing at all. You can do it! Feel free to contact me if you need some extra moral support. :) Happy New Year!

Be Your Best Self

The other day, I was watching Sex and the City. I never watched the show while it actively aired, but due to a dear friend's recent move to New York City, I was inspired to jump on the SATC band wagon and start from the beginning.

In the 2nd episode of Season 1, "Models & Mortals," the following scene takes place:

MIRANDA: We should just admit that we live in a culture that promotes impossible standards of beauty

CHARLOTTE: Yeah, except men think they're possible

MIRANDA: Yeah

CHARLOTTE: You know, no matter how good I feel about myself if I see Christy Turlington, I just wanna give up

MIRANDA: I just wanna force feed her lard, but that’s the difference between you and me

(All laugh)

CARRIE: What are you talking about? Look at you two, you're beautiful

CHARLOTTE: Oooo I hate my thighs

MIRANDA: O come on

CHARLOTTE: I can't even open a magazine without thinking "thighs, thighs, thighs"

MIRANDA: Well I'll take your thighs and raise you a chin

CARRIE: I’ll take you a chin and raise you a … (points at nose)

(All look at Samantha expectantly)

SAMANTHA: What?

CARRIE: Come on

SAMANTHA: I happen to love the way I look

MIRANDA: You should. You paid enough for it ( Miranda, Carrie and Charlotte all laugh)

---

After finishing the episode and generally reflecting, I began to ponder: Why do we (especially women) seek to emulate other people? We miss out entirely on the fact that regardless of our hair/eye/skin color, waist/breast size, or any other physical trait we "hate" about ourselves, we are the only 
        (insert full name here)          this world will ever know! That fact, in and of itself, should make us proud  to be who we are.

My! How the world would be different if we stopped spending so much time worrying about what everyone else thinks and simply concentrated on being our best selves! People, we need to stop comparing ourselves to everybody else! Why do we continue to disillusion ourselves into thinking we could ever look like Ryan Reynolds or a Victoria's Secret model? If that's not how God made you, don't break your back (and your wallet) trying to be something you just anatomically cannot be.


Now, don't get me wrong - I KNOW this is easier said than done (might I remind you that I once was anorexic). Nevertheless, if you don't actively work to change your mindset, of course, you will never experience freedom from the culture "that promotes impossible standards of beauty." (Key word - IMPOSSIBLE). 

Furthermore, if you are able to fully grasp the implications of how special you are simply because you are the only YOU to exist, I guarantee you will hold your head up a little higher. Instead of worrying about how you may fall short in the eye's of others, if you focus solely on being the best         (insert full name here)            you can be in any and every situation - whatever that means and however that looks - much of your current stress will diminish. I know mine did.

At present, I am speaking mostly on the physical level; however, this attitude of loving yourself naturally also applies to your personality, dreams, and ambitions. You only get one shot at life. Do what makes you happy. Aspire towards the things you love and from which you receive fulfillment. When fully flushed out, this idea can potentially change your whole outlook on life!

For years, I have appreciated the artist, Pink. Her music really speaks about and to real situations and all-too-real emotions people face on a daily basis. Her recent song, "F*ckin' Perfect," really sums up and communicates my feelings on this matter - I hope you are able to one day realize that you are perfect just the way you are - for no other reason than because it is true. Don't aspire towards greatness; just be your best self.



(Viewer discretion advised; if you would rather just read the lyrics, they are posted below).



Pink's "F*ckin' Perfect" Lyrics:

Made a wrong turn once or twice
Dug my way out, blood and fire
Bad decisions, that's alright
Welcome to my silly life

Mistreated, misplaced, misunderstood
Miss 'No way, it's all good'
It didn't slow me down.
Mistaken, always second guessing
Underestimated, look I'm still around

Pretty, pretty please, don't you ever, ever feel
Like you're less than fucking perfect
Pretty, pretty please, if you ever, ever feel
Like you're nothing, you're fucking perfect to me

You're so mean when you talk
About yourself. You were wrong.
Change the voices in your head
Make them like you instead.

So complicated,
Look happy, You'll make it!
Filled with so much hatred
Such a tired game
It's enough, I've done all I could think of
Chased down all my demons
I've seen you do the same
(Ohh ohhhhhhh)

Pretty, pretty please, don't you ever, ever feel
Like you're less than fucking perfect
Pretty, pretty please, if you ever, ever feel
Like you're nothing, you're fucking perfect to me

The whole world's scared, so I swallow the fear
The only thing I should be drinking is an ice cold beer
So cool in line and we try try try but we try too hard
And it's a waste of my time.
Done looking for the critics, cause they're everywhere
They don't like my jeans, they don't get my hair
Exchange ourselves and we do it all the time
Why do we do that, why do I do that (why do I do that)?

(Yeah!)
I'm Pretty, pretty, pretty

Pretty, pretty please, don't you ever, ever feel
Like you're less than fucking perfect
Pretty, pretty please, if you ever, ever feel
Like you're nothing, you're fucking perfect to me
(You're perfect, you're perfect)
Pretty, pretty please, don't you ever, ever feel
Like you're less than fucking perfect.
Pretty, pretty please, if you ever, ever feel
Like you're nothing, you are perfect to me.

Tights - They're Back!

Fall/Winter fashion trend alert! Tights are taking the world by storm. What used to be those horribly awful items our mothers forced us to wear under our Sunday best are now finding their way into adults' closets everywhere in various fabrics, patterns, and transparencies!

As the weather can't seem to decide what it's doing - dipping to low 40's one day and then soaring to near 70 the next - tights help extend your spring/summer wardrobe into the fall/winter. In my research, I came across one fashionista who enjoys pairing her shorts with tights, allowing her to maintain core temperatures without having an overly bulky ensemble. Unfortunately, as we enter December, I don't think this adaptation will be wearable much longer.









Unless of course, you're wearing sweater tights! Able to add flair to your outfit, keep your legs and tootsies warm, and they can come in a variety of shades and patterns. Check out these argyle print ones! You can't go wrong!







 


If you're feeling particularly bold, you can pick up a pair of tights in an iridescent shade to add undeniable pop and wake up your otherwise muted cold weather outfits.







Black will of course go with everything and pair nicely with skirts or dresses paired with boots as will browns and navy blues. And, usually this variety comes in a range of transparencies from super opaque to sheer, depending on your personal preferences.

Then, there are tights like these with crazy patterns that jazz up your look without even trying! This zig zag pattern on the left is rather striking as are these cable net ones on the right.

Tights also enable you to recycle your spring and summer shoes! 

Wear them with your strappy heels and peep toes. No need to buy all new footwear as you move into the next season. Wah Lah!

An obvious pro to tights is how budget friendly they are. I just scored 3 pairs at Marshall's for $9.99. In my shopping excursions, I've seen them for as low as $4.50/pair up to $9.99 for a name brand. Sure, you can also find them for $18-$22 at websites likes hue.com, but I'm content with my $3.33 steals. :)

The one piece of advice other bloggers are stressing with tights is: PLEASE, Please, please do not wear tights as if they were leggings. They're tights. Not leggings. So, sure! Pair them with your favorite party dress. Wear them with sweater dresses (that is bonafide dresses made from knit fabrics, not sweaters that are two sizes too big - just sayin'). But do not try to pass them off for pants when they're not. Hello, fashion faux paux. 'Nuff said. 

As I retire for the evening and prepare my Sunday best, I will be looking to dawn a pair of my new tights tomorrow. I'll try to upload a picture and keep you updated with other looks I have created using them, so be sure to check back. Best wishes for finding great success with your legwear and stay warm all season long! 

---

With Scarf	Without Scarf	Actual Look of the Tights

Fall & Faux Fur

At a time when everyone seems concerned with political correctness and being eco-friendly, it is no wonder that faux fur would be at the forefront of fall/winter fashion this year.

It took me a little while to find appreciation for this trend, but if treated respectfully it does look/seem rather cozy. (Notwithstanding, it can also look downright scary).




As with any other wardrobe piece, proportions are key. If your fur simply serves to add texture to your look, then your pairings can be a bit more bold. However, if you look like you traded places with Chewbacca for the day, you want to assume a minimalist approach elsewhere.

The cut of the clothing item is also something to be mindful of. Fur can be quite bulky, so one must be careful when choosing the style and length of his/her potential purchase. Personally, I prefer short hair varieties on hip-length vests; they work best with my frame and build. I feel as if the longer hair furs tend to create an almost sloppy appearance. I much rather prefer to appear pulled together, not coming away at the seams.

 


If you're not ready to go all out on fur, you can go for a fur-lined jacket or boot! Or, you could invest in a fur-accented handbag. These are all great ways of getting that luxe look without leaving your comfort zone. Just a little bit can go a long way when paired with simple jeans, tees, and/or sweaters.

I'm still on the prowl for a faux fur item to call my own. It can be tricky to find that perfect piece, but never forget, sometimes less is more. And, the bottom line is - you have love what you're in; otherwise, what's the point? So if you're game (pun intended), give it a try. But whatever you do, work what your momma gave you. :)

Autumnal Accoutrements

Finally, finally, finally! Fall weather has arrived! I was delighted by the cool, crisp temperature and the gentle, refreshing breezes that accompanied my backyard Zumba session earlier today. :)

With the arrival of fall comes the opportunity to break out my near 20 scarves and the cozy sweaters that have lain dormant through the last 2 seasons. It also means that different color options are now available as each season carries it's own palette.

Pantone, "the global authority on color and provider of professional color standards for the design industries," presented this list of the top ten colors for women during fall 2011 and winter 2012 (fashiontrendsetter.com).

For men, emberglow is replaced by burnt sienna, honeysuckle by raspberry wine, and orchid hush by cadet.


The appeal to these colors is that they allow you to create varying fashion forward statements; it simply depends on how you pair them. To create a standout look, pair the "louder" colors with similarly bright hues. For a more classic, complimentary approach, team up the more vibrant hues with more neutral ones.You can go bold by mixing deep shades together, or create a softer look just using the pastels. The ball is in your court!

My favorites of this lineup are as follows:
1. Phlox - As I have stated before, purples are my go-to's. I look fabulous in them. I can wear this color effortlessly.
2. Emberglow - I just recently got into this shade; although, my true preference lies with one that swings more towards coral. Paired with coffee liquer, it's a match made in Heaven.

3. Bamboo - Bamboo is beautiful, but sometimes difficult to be worn. Accessorizing with it, however, is easy and allows you to take advantage of its appeal without being drowned in it. In fact, this belt on the right was a recent purchase of mine, and I'm on the prowl for a cross body bag in this color as well. (Forever21 to the rescue!)
4. Deep Teal - I have a sweater in this color that I can't wait to wear again. It is simple and therefore perfect to wear with a brooch or a scarf. =D



5. Burnt Sienna - While Pantone allocated this color to men's fashion, it works really well with my natural color palette. My first fall clothing purchase this season was in such a shade. Pining for colored denim and after much searching, I finally found a flare pant in this alluring red hue that is perfect for autumn.








Concerning fall fashion, corduroy is back now, of course, and GAP has a love-at-first-sight pair for women in 4 fall friendly colors - dried berry (as seen on the right), milk chocolate, hematite, and camel.

Another on-trend look you'll likely see - mixing materials. Predominantly seen in over/outerwear, designers have taken us back to the 70's, pairing tweeds with leather or leather with cable knits, and brandishing faux fur aplenty. Doing so creates a luxe look that can go just about anywhere. (Both of these items can be found at H&M - Men's Blazer, Ladies' Jacket).

Riding boots and capes are coming in strong, making an equestrian look easy.








And these are just a few of the "must-haves" for this season. So if you haven't already, unbox those sweaters and cords, air out those scarves and tweed jackets. I have a strong feeling that this autumn is going to be a good one, so why not look great the whole season through!