This article was originally published on Baucemag.com and was written by Evette Dionne
“Your [insert article of clothing here] is fabulous. Where did you buy it?”
“I can never find clothes like this at the store.”
“Are you sure you purchased that there? I can’t believe it.”
Apart from conversations about finding a respectable man, the state of full-figured fashion is what I discuss most often with fellow curvy babes. I don’t believe in bragging, but I will admit that I am praised as much for my fashion sense as I am for my intellect. No, I’m not Tanesha Awasthi or another self-professed fashion guru. But, I do know the power of clothing, and I use fashion to express myself and to communicate an emotion.
Since I have a passionate love affair with fashion, nothing pains me more than seeing other girls with extra curves who settle for less with their wardrobes. They believe there isn’t clothing out there that will accentuate their best assets and camouflage their imperfections. If this was 2001, and our options were limited to hideous flowered shirts from Kmart, then I would agree that we should issue a statement of emergency for curvy girl fashion. But since the curvy babe fashion revolution was sparked, we should never have to resuscitate our wardrobes.
Flower buds are going to bloom into beautiful bouquets soon, so this is the perfect time for a permanent wardrobe revamp. Here are five tips for creating a runway-worthy wardrobe that is both chic and affordable.
No shade will be thrown here. Lane Bryant, Ashley Stewart, and my shopping heaven Torrid all have amazing and fashionable clothing options for curvy women. But I discourage limiting clothing options strictly to these stores, and others that cater specifically to us, for several reasons. The foundation for fashion is individual creativity, which can’t be created if you’re only selecting clothing from the Lane Bryant Spring collection. Ever considered wearing a XL Forever 21 dress as a top or a XXL Old Navy dress as a tunic? You should. Don’t be deterred by a designer’s original intention. Boldness is essential to building a chic wardrobe, so channel that inner diva and waltz into a local straight-size store. You’ll leave with a unique outfit, and a new perspective on the limits of fashion.
The world-wide-web is the greatest creation since…well...ever, so use it! Outside of social networking and internet dating, the web should be used for online shopping. Online stores are one of the best solutions for most of our fashion woes. Some of the greatest fashion jewels, e.g. ASOS and Eloquii, are solely produced online. Internet shopping allows us to see a store’s entire inventory at once. Who wouldn’t want to avoid the hassle of browsing racks in exchange for easier and savvier shopping? Oh, and internet store coupons can sometimes cut the costs of shopping by 20 to 25 percent. For instance, Eloquii has a sale each week, and always offers free shipping. That is unbeatable from a fashionista’s perspective.
As I’ve followed blogger Gabi Fresh in recent months, I’ve noticed that she never allows the size on the label to deter her. She often has her clothes tailored to remove stitches; this gives her enough room to fit a size 8 shirt over her size 22 frame. I refer to this swift fashion move as the “Gabi Method,” and I love it! Of course, not all shirts and pants can be tailored and still maintain the original attractiveness, but cropped tunics and colored jeans are fabulous regardless of the season. Plus, tailored clothes seem much more polished and professional, so I encourage investing in a permanent local tailor!
I am unashamed to admit that I am a thrifter. I make weekend excursions to local thrift stores and spend less than $100 and walk away with bags full of fashionable, chic, designer clothing. A vintage Chanel tote that would retail for $300 in a department store becomes mine for less than $20, and those popular lace blouses from the ‘80s that have resurfaced don’t leave a dent in my bank account. Don’t have too much pride. Thrift. You’ll find adorable pieces that are one-of-a-kind and save a few dollars. A win-win.
Despite what fashion blogs tell us, large rings and fierce wedges are not the perfect accessories to an outfit; confidence is. Regardless of what dress you’re strutting in, confidence is infectious. You want to command attention when walking into a room, and that comes with how you wear your clothes, rather than what you’re wearing. Be confident, and the rest will align on its own.
Happy shopping!
“As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
~ Marianne Williamson
Are you wondering how this quote relates to the power of color in your wardrobe? First, how you present yourself is how you ask the world to perceive you. Other’s perception of you, starts most intrinsically with your wardrobe and your confidence (often, they go hand in hand!).
Second, color influences mood and perception. Think about it. How do you feel when you wear all black? How do people respond to you? How about when you wear your favorite purple top? Your reaction is a lot stronger and you get so many more compliments, don’t you? We naturally gravitate to certain colors because we can instantly see and feel the difference as soon as we put it on. We see our complexion miraculously improve and our shoulders pull up a little straighter. Once you recognize this, make a mental note on how a color makes you feel (or, if you need to, write it down).
Incorporating color into your wardrobe and your brand image
Think about how much color you have in your wardrobe. Is there any one color that really dominates? Possibly two? Well, then you’ve already subconsciously chosen what I like to call your “Power Color” -- The color that brings out the best in you – your complexion, your personality and, thus, how others perceive you.
Color Cues
Since your image is your brand, take the following into consideration when preparing for a presentation, meeting or even just a hot date:
How people perceive you results from a combination of how the color makes you look and feel as well as how the color itself is perceived. So, you need to take all of these into consideration when identifying your power color as well. Remember this for when you’re shopping, needing a mood boost, and when you’re preparing for a presentation. Don’t hide behind black!
Are you ready to shine?
Lately, one of my favorite trends is one that calls out to my inner rocker chick: studs, spikes and hardware embellishments. This trend has been spotted on the runway, on fashion-savvy celebrities and featured on some of my favorite fashion blogs. Studs are a great way to add an unexpected edge and subtle glam to your look.
Stud-spiration
This season, studs are making their way from leather boots and jackets, to sweaters, blouses, skirts, dresses and bags. The modern studded and spiked pieces are being paired with feminine pieces: flowy and oversized tops, pastel colors and combined with a hint of sparkle. Spikes and studs are also showing up in statement jewelry, including bangles, rings, and necklaces, which can add an edge to a casual look or flirty dress.
You don’t have to leave studs for the rock concert, you can incorporate that new stud piece into every look with a few key ingredients.
Work Wear
At work, you want to keep your studs subtle. Try pairing a modern blazer with a studded lapel or a nice blouse with a studded collar or cuffs. Choose a versatile color that you can wear with a few different pieces in your closet; try a black blouse that you can wear with skirts, trousers or even jeans on the weekend. We loved this white blazer (H&M, $50) with a studded lapel. This is a jacket that you can also wear with a sleek LBD or a more feminine, flowy dress for a date night. Looking for an even more subtle way to bring this trend to work? Try a thin, spiked bangle with your work look, adding a little edge and shine.
Date Night
Studs can be sexy, so why not incorporate them into your date night look. Date night is a perfect opportunity to break out those studded heels you’ve been too nervous to wear. You can also amp up the glam with a stud and sparkle combo like this clutch (Love Culture, $15). Pair your studs with your favorite dress, or skinny jeans and an embellished tank.
Weekend Casual
Work in studs into your weekend wear by rocking them with your favorite jeans, leggings, sandals and/or shades. A cool, low-key way to pull off this trend is a studded oversized sweater. Pair your sweater with a pair of skinny jeans and sandals for running errands, brunch or catching a movie. I paired this oversized aqua studded sweater (Forever 21, $25) with white skinny jeans and studded sandals. I added a pop of color with a yellow bag and some oversized sunglasses to keep the look fashion forward. This look could also work with a studded tank or t-shirt.
Shop This Trend
Studs may be on every item in the stores right now, but approach with caution before shelling out big bucks. Buy subtly studded foundation pieces so that you can still wear them when the trend may not be as popular. Retailers like Forever 21, Zara, and H&M have pieces that will keep you on trend without breaking the bank.
What’s your favorite studded look? Share your photos with us on Twitter @MadeWomanMag or on Facebook!
After winter hibernation it’s no wonder we’re desperate to show off what we’ve got. As a result, spring brings us some of the most daring looks. To stay ahead of the fashion curve for this new season here are a few items to punch up your look. Whether you’re ready to jump off the deep end with us or just want to add a little flare to your wardrobe, we’ve got it all from Grandma’s best to Batgirl-chic.
Sure it’s not practical but batgirl is a look this spring. Everywhere you turned at the world's fashion weeks this year some waif was being crushed under the weight of her jacket which was supported with nothing more than her shoulders. Wearing proper capes, or draping a coat may not allow for much gesticulation or bodily articulation (Vogue says don’t even think about hugging your friend) but, capes are bold and make a statement of chic power. Thankfully Sunday brunching doesn’t require much movement and thus lends itself perfectly to your cape aspirations. Even newly ordained Pope Francis is embracing the cape trend.
Did you buy colored jeans? Yes. You bought all the colored jeans. Great. Perfect. But now we have a new pants trend. This spring brings us tailored (non-jean) patterned pants. From legging tight Chanel-inspired houndstooth to colorful floral work pants, this item goes day to night as easy as a little black dress. They can be flirty and also, elegantly fun for work. Wear them with flats for a day out shopping or with heels and an oversized blazer for a day at the office.
Steampunk is one of the most eye-catching genres in fashion. Rooted in the Industrial Revolution and revived a century later in Japan’s whimsical world of Gothic Lolita fashion, Steampunk bridges the gap between science, technology, fashion, and fantasy. In a perfect world when Robert Downey, Jr.’s Sherlock and Tim Burton design for Oliver Peoples-For-Target, this is what you would get. In short, Steampunk is the one stop shop for the thinking woman’s fashion revolution. This spring bring your fashion IQ up a notch with these metallic, circular frames.
If Steampunk is too much of a leap for you, you can get a similar edge with another of this Spring’s trends. Rock Glam is hanging around for warmer temps this year. This typically leather-heavy trend is more for winter but who says you can’t wear your bright yellow mini skirt with some studded or buckle-laden heels?
Brocade walks a fine line. It can either say “Look, I’m a walking 200 year old tapestry” or “I must have been aristocracy in another life.” Tread lightly, it is not the easiest thing to take what was probably once the pattern on your grandmother’s living room sofa, and wear it. But if you can - own it!
Items in main photo:
Roseanna Santa Floral Brocade Jacket
WAYF Gym Pants
VTG Style Round Lens 90s Steampunk Glasses
Co-founders Serena Watson and Lindsey Day checked out TheBroot Salon in Santa Monica. Read about their experience below and get two reviews in one!
I was excited to try out TheBroot Salon after checking out their website and reading about their all natural process. My hair history is long but to sum it up, I had a chemical relaxer for a really long time and only gave up the “creamy crack” about two and half years ago. My focus lately has been to grow my hair out and get it as healthy as possible, so I was excited to try this natural treatment.
Being in TheBroot salon almost feels like you are in an old-fashioned ice cream and smoothie parlor. There were a few old school blenders lined up, big coolers behind the counter and a large black-board scrawled with a variety of hair recipes. The very helpful stylist walked me through selecting the right blend of avocado, honey and milk for my thirsty, mistreated hair. I loved lounging on the plush couches and paging through the coffee table books laying around while my treatment was being blended. It was a lot of fun just hanging out with Lindsey in that very lady-like environment. When it was time to get started I was impressed by the raised wash bowls with neck supports, which allowed my stylist to stand comfortably behind me to wash my hair. The treatment was then applied and we sat under the dryer for about 20 minutes, just enough time to post pics on Instagram (see below).
The treatment was then rinsed out and it was time for the most amazing part of the process. My stylist, Sabrina, proceeded to give me a “blow out,” an experience I had never had before. I have incredibly thick, mid length hair, which is daunting to even the most experienced, hot comb-wielding hair stylist. So imagine my surprise to see my hair fall in soft, damn near straight strands with only the use of a hair dryer and a round brush. I was so happy to see that I didn’t need to apply so much heat to my hair for it to be manageable. For girls looking to make the switch to a more natural straightening process and/or for a luxurious deep conditioning treatment, hurry and Google Map the route to TheBroot salon.
Once a flat iron fanatic, I’ve learned to embrace my curls over the last few years. With this transition, I’ve also adopted a much more natural and low-maintenance hair regimen. So when Serena and I met one of TheBroot's stylists, Shelly, and were invited in to the salon, I was definitely excited. A customized, raw, organic hair treatment using a combo of ingredients like banana, honey, egg, avocado and mayonnaise sounded like something right up my alley.
When I arrived for my hair treatment, my experience lived up to my expectations. Serena and I were attended to promptly, and after telling our respective "BrootTenders" about our hair types and current hair needs, we settled in to receive the royal treatment. Shelly whipped up my personalized concoction (which was written down for me on a handy tip sheet at the end of our visit), and got to work massaging it through my scalp and hair. Amidst girl talk, the process and benefits of the mask were explained thoroughly, and it felt great to know that I wasn’t putting any strange chemicals on my hair and scalp. As I sat under the dryer while my treatment marinated, I couldn’t wait to see how it would affect my hair.
After my hair was thoroughly rinsed and washed, I was taken to the styling bar where I, too, opted for a blow out (they also offer various styles of braids, styled wet). My hair was straightened beautifully, without a ton of heat or manipulation. TheBroot ladies also put me up on the amazing smelling Macadamia Natural Oil products, which sealed my blow out nicely without weighing my hair down. I left the salon a believer. If my hair is ever in need of some love, TheBroot will definitely be my first stop!
TheBroot is the world’s first all-natural hair mask bar. Our name says it all: We take you back to your roots using simple, raw ingredients to help you ditch your chemical-laden hair care products and start a healthier hair relationship.
Think of it as hair rehab, a place that helps your locks overcome their chemical dependence so they can be strong and healthy on their own. Over time, your hair will feel shinier, stronger, and bouncier than ever (and so will you).
Using only the freshest, natural ingredients, like avocado, honey and oils, our BrootTenders blend custom hair masks that will leave your hair feeling restored and revitalized. From the fruit stand to the fridge to the blender, let us do the work. No chemicals, no preservatives and best of all, no mess. Your tresses deserve an all-natural, healthy diet; just like your body does. And we’re here to provide it.
Have you ever thought of how much money you could save if your favorite foundation didn’t cost 60 dollars? As a beauty blogger who isn’t swimming in dough right now, I thought about it all of the time. This is why I made it my makeup mission to find products that I love at the drugstore. I still can’t give up some of my pricey makeup must haves, but now I limit myself to buying a few expensive items and spend the extra money on a slew of other fabulous things at reasonable prices! Here are some of my favorite drugstore beauty finds.
The colors of these lipsticks are so vibrant and fun! The matte colors look so chic and the 8 dollar price tag makes it easy to experiment with a bolder colors than you are used to. My go-to colors are Persian Melon, Orange Flip and Certainly Red.
I have tried numerous foundations in all different price ranges, but I always end up coming back to this one. It has a light coverage that goes on smoothly and blends into your skin for perfect application. It’s also the only product that I found that really matches my skin color.
Tip: I have found that Rite Aid stocks the most shades so head there if it’s your first time searching!
My favorite mascara is Tarte Lights Camera Lashes, but when I don’t have the extra 20 bucks to spare, I love Falsies by Maybelline. It doesn’t clump and it’s one of the only non-waterproof mascaras I buy that doesn’t smudge under my eyes. I apply multiple layers throughout the day and my lashes always look long and full, never dry and cakey.
I have a couple of these shadows and they make doing everyday makeup effortless, plus the easy application will save you time in the morning. The color goes on great, and the color pairs work so well together you really can’t fail. My go to day color is the duo in Dusk.
Essie is by far my favorite brand of polish. It comes in tons of colors and they always live up to the shade you see in the bottle. I have about 20 myself and even make it a point to bring my own when getting a pedicure!
I am just starting to get into using lip liner. I always thought I would end up with a weird unnatural line around my lips and didn’t know that I could use the liner as a lip color itself. I now use NYC liners to create awesome matte colors on my lips that last for HOURS and never look fake. It also makes it easier to give my husband a kiss without smearing pink all over his lips!
The Oscars are the pinnacle of glamorous red carpet fashion for celebrities, stylists and fashionistas the world over. Days are spent sourcing dresses, struggling through fittings and planning hair and makeup for those precious minutes of flashing lights. So who ended up dazzling us on the 2013 Oscar red carpet? Here were our favorites.
Jessica Chastain in Giorgio Armani
Jessica Chastain is channeling some major Jessica Rabbit mojo in her bronze beaded gown. Her column sheath is structured and fitted to her body like a glove. She completes her look with Old Hollywood big waves and a bold red lip. Her effortless glam look easily earns her a spot on our list.
Stacy Keibler in Naeem Khan
Stacy Keibler knows how to work dresses straight from the runway, and this one was no exception. Keibler dazzled in this Naeem Khan gunmetal column halter gown. We were dazzled by the lines of the dress along with the sheer back, paired with her romantic updo and soft makeup.
Charlize Theron in Dior
Dior was well represented on this year’s red carpet, as Charlize Theron also stunned us in a white Dior number. Her embellished peplum, geometric neckline and column skirt wowed, along with her pixie haircut, simple diamond earrings and bling bracelets.
Naomi Watts in Armani Prive
Also rocking some serious bling on the red carpet was Naomi Watts. Her gunmetal sequins, structured bodice and geometric cut out top was perfect with her soft updo and simple accessories.
Amy Adams in Oscar de la Renta
The Oscars is the time to go glam. Amy Adams did it right in an Oscar de la Renta silvery-gray princess gown. The bodice was fitted and the skirt flowed with volume. She paired her look with sparkly drop earrings and a soft updo.
Reese Witherspoon in Louis Vuitton
Red carpet veteran Reese Witherspoon kept it classic in a stunning cobalt blue Louis Vuitton gown. We love the structured bodice, bold color, black details and train of her ensemble. Reese also is channeling Old Hollywood goddess with her large waves, simple accessories and neutral makeup.
Halle Berry in Versace
We’re a sucker for sparkle, and Halle Berry brought some serious glitter in her black and white striped Versace number. We are still in awe of her plunging neckline, sheer sleeve and glam smokey eye look.
Kerry Washington in Miu Miu
In a sea of pale palettes and dark metallics, Kerry Washington’s pop of color on the red carpet was refreshing and eye catching. We love her peach sequined bodice and her bright pink-red skirt. Her column skirt was a perfect combination of fitted and flowy, with beautiful details like a train and a belted ribbon.
Jennifer Lawrence in Dior
Jennifer Lawrence made a statement on the Oscar red carpet with her voluminous Dior gown. Her pale pink ensemble had a rounded neckline, fitted dropped bodice and textured skirt. We also love Lawrence’s delicate draped backward necklace, elegant updo and bling drop earrings.
Jennifer Garner in Gucci
Another celebrity who made a bold color choice on the red carpet was Jennifer Garner in a plum Gucci gown. We love the simplicity and fitted front with the tiered ruffles and train of the back. We also love her look paired with a statement necklace and soft updo. Her classic silhouette and beautiful color choice easily earn her a spot on our best dressed list.
Compliment a woman on her hair, and the response generally goes a little something like this: “Yeah? I wish it had more volume!” or “Ugh…I miss my long/short/medium-lengthed hair,” or even “It’s too…perfect. I want something edgier!” No matter what the texture, I venture to say that every woman has had their share of hair issues. Mine, growing up, were centered on finding someone who could deal with my naturally curly, über frizzy and (often) tangled -- mane. Instances like the day my 9-year-old self went swimming wearing a ponytail and subsequently stayed up all night with my mom cursing me and slathering conditioner on my matted hair to detangle it, race to mind. (Love you, Mom!)
Over the years, I’ve tried seemingly every hair product; from those in the “regular” aisle of the beauty supply, to the ones in the “ethnic” section -- sometimes a mix of all of ‘em. I’ve also tried a host of local salons in LA who specialize in curly hair styling. My hair has been relaxed, pressed, flat ironed, blown out, braided and re-curled by a variety of contraptions. Through all my experimentation -- coupled with new, innovative products and a culture that’s starting to embrace the hair’s natural state -- I’ve picked up a few tricks. My findings? The right resources, products and cut are essential to the health and beauty of your hair. And of course, I have to share my faves with my fellow curly girls.
NaturallyCurly.com
“Knowledge is power.” This definitely applies to a Made Woman’s hair. I can’t over-stress the importance of educating yourself about your curls. Every curly hair product will not work on every curl! Are you Wavy, Curly, Curly Coily or Coily? What are the pattern, porosity, density, width and length of your curls? Chances are you have no clue. Naturally Curly will help you figure out your hair texture type; and their “Curltalk” forums, articles, photos and more will bring you that much closer to the curls of your dreams.
Ouidad.com
The “Queen of Curls,” Ouidad (yes, simply Ouidad), opened the first curly hair salon in the US in 1984. As a true curly hair pioneer, her website offers amazing resources for those of you looking to really define your ringlets. Use her “rake and shake” method to achieve the lustrous, perfectly-defined curls you crave. She also has a Curl Profiler to help determine what your hair needs to look its best. Check out more information on her salons below.
Mixed Chicks
If you know me, you know I SWEAR by this line of products. These ladies helped me retire my flat iron and learn to embrace my natural hair. I felt so strongly about them that we had to profile them among our first Made Women of the Month! I’ve tried out other leave-in conditioners, but Mixed Chicks leaves my hair soft and touchable, while gently defining my curls. I love a slightly tousled, less perfect look; and this leave-in allows me to get the volume I love. I swear by their sulfate-free shampoo, deep conditioner and hair silk shine serum too!
Miss Jessie’s
I have used Miss Jessie’s Quick Curl Crème a few times, and I loved the smell and found it to be very moisturizing. While I personally prefer Mixed Chicks for my curls, I’ve heard great reviews from ladies with natural hair of various textures -- from thin and wavy to coarse and kinky. They also offer a slew of products, from puddings to meringues to baby butter crèmes. This is a great line to experiment with and find what works for your particular hair texture. They’re on the pricey side though, so try out their free samples first.
Ouidad Salon, Santa MonicaI first visited Ouidad Salon in Santa Monica a couple of years ago. With flagship salons in Santa Monica and New York City, all Ouidad certified stylists are trained in the trademarked “Carve and Slice” cutting technique that helps make hair a lot more manageable. Upon my visit my stylist, Morgan, introduced me to the “Rake and Shake” styling technique, which helped to really define my curls. As you can see from the photos below, Ouidad is a great option if you’re looking to cut out the frizz and get more of a “wet look.” The salon also offers a variety of treatments to suit your hair needs.
Batia and Aleeza Salon, Beverly Hills
After just one cut, Batia became my go-to gal for haircuts and styling. She has mad skills with the scissors, effortlessly chopping away while telling intriguing stories in her incredibly charming accent. Of Israeli descent, Batia’s curly hair knowledge (and that of her sister, Aleeza) comes from personal experience. I found her when I wanted a much shorter ‘do and a more tousled look, and she gave me just that (see below). I ended up with a cut that I could grow into: when she finished, she told me I didn’t need to come in for six months! I prefer a low-maintenance hair routine, so this was music to my ears.
No matter what type of curls you’re rocking, knowledge, the right products and the right cut are paramount. I hope this list will help you step away from the flat iron (at least sometimes!) and embrace your God-given curls.
Did I miss something? Let me know your favorite curly hair resources, salons and products in the comments below! And don't forget to enter our We <3 Curls Contest!
Dinner plans, check. Appropriate manly-yet-romantic gift for the man you love, check. Candles and music for the...ahem...after party, check. But the day of love is approaching and you haven’t answered the million dollar question: What are you going to wear!? Here are some classy suggestions for outfits sure to make his heart beat a little faster:
This floral sheath from Aqua hugs you in all the right places. It is sure to brighten up any evening outing. And since it’s on sale for $75.60, the price is right to buy now for V-day and wear through spring.
Keeping your Valentine’s day low-key? Or just not the type to dress up? Then I recommend wearing your favorite love story. From the romantic Great Gatsby to the sensual Lolita, Out of Print clothing carries a variety of T-shirts, fleece, and totes featuring famous book covers. Wear one of these T-shirts under a blazer and pair with high-heels or boots for a casual look that is timelessly chic.
Planning a long walk on the beach? This jumpsuit is a stylish and cute way to strut on the sand. The red rose print is also very fitting for Valentine’s Day wear.
If you’re going somewhere a bit more formal, this dress by French Connection has great movement and is a fun but classic option.
These tanks by Haute Hippie are playful and perfect for V-Day. Wear with leather leggings to make a flirty statement.
These d’Orsay pumps by Jean-Michel Cazbat can be worn to work and to play. The mint and pink choices are perfect for making a V-Day outfit pop. Oh, and that back detail – walking sex!
I am not really a Hello Kitty kind of girl. But even I have to admit these heart-print Hello Kitty pumps I found on JustFab.com are quite cute.
Going somewhere glitzy? If you’re visiting a local hot spot or going dancing, these glittery sandals by Kate Spade will have you standing out and feeling good.
If your taste is edgier or you are looking to bundle up by wearing some cute booties, these studs are the perfect mate. The toes are capped with spikes and crystals, and the boots come in red or black. Who doesn’t love a hot shoe on sale? For only $70 you can have a trendy boot to wear with a LBD or some great skinny slacks.
This studded heart bag will win yours over. And for $48 this deal is no heart (or bank) breaker.
Jacquie Aiche shows us how to show our love: by wearing it on our ears. The ear cuff is a new, trendy way to wear jewels on the ears. I love how this piece peeks out at the top of the ear, so unexpected and fresh. 
This necklace from JustFab.com is a true gem. It has every color on it, so it can go with anything! In fact, you may want to gift yourself with this beauty come V-Day.
Don’t wait for a guy to put a ring on it. You can do that yourself. Stack and layer this cute bow ring also on (JustFab.com) for a truly pretty sight.
Whatever your plans may be for February 14, show yourself some love and indulge in a wardrobe update. Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be about just lingerie. Buy something that you will actually wear on other days of the year and that you absolutely love.
Over time, our lives and our closets can get bogged down with things from the past. As a professional stylist, I know how important it is to shed the trends of seasons past and focus on what’s hanging right in front of you. It’s a daunting task indeed, but the benefits of cleaning out your closet should inspire you to TRY IT! Imagine waking up each morning and knowing instantly what you want to wear for that very important presentation. You can go into your closet and see all that you have and you can even mix and match to create a number of fun, new and stylish outfits. If one of your New Years resolutions was to clean out your closet and step up your style in 2013, then this year will be the year that you should actually do it!
Since this is a big project, it’s important to enlist help – whether a good friend with an unbiased opinion and (of course) great fashion sense or an expert who can really see all the potential for your closet as well as suggest ideas for maximizing it.
It’s also important to make it a FUN experience – turn on some tunes, maybe pour yourself a glass of wine, and grab some snacks...this could take awhile.
Cleansing, Editing & Styling Your Closet
When I work with clients, I like to start with the items that they’re already questioning (be it the fit, cut, style, color, etc.) so we can get through those quickly. Often times, we’ll find gems in this pile around which we can create a number of new outfits. Most will likely be quickly donated.
Go through your wardrobe by category (sweaters, blouses, pants, skirts, etc.) and pull out all your items. Try them on. Inspect them. When was the last time you wore it? Why haven’t you worn it? Would you wear it now?
If it’s something you haven’t worn in a while but you feel like you would still wear it, try to create 2-3 outfits around the item right then and there. Take pictures to document the outfits. If you love your new looks, it’s a keeper. If you’re indifferent, it’s time to move on.
Make note of what you have multiples of – white tees, black cardigans, black pants, etc. Find the pieces that are the best quality, shape and condition and keep those. Donate the rest. And make a note that you want to find replacements for some of these items, but in COLOR.
Throughout the process it’s important to be ruthless. Take no prisoners! If you want to streamline your style and your morning routine, it makes no sense to keep pieces that will only confuse you as you’re getting ready. You should only own pieces you LOVE and that make you feel fabulous … even your boring black pants!
Finally, it’s time to find your old pieces a new home. If it’s a piece that you’ve had a hard time parting with because it’s good quality, designer and still in good shape but it just isn’t your style anymore, I bet there is a good friend who pops into your head who would LOVE it. Some items might also be a good fit for Ebay or a consignment store (if it’s current season, on trend and in saleable condition). Finally, I guide my clients to donate the rest to their local battered women’s shelter or Dress for Success (as opposed to Goodwill) to be sure that the clothes go to those who really need them. BONUS: you get to keep on giving well after the Holiday season is over!
made woman everywhere
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