Category Archives: Polyvore

Beauty, Blogger Style, Bohemian Babe, Fashion, Gypsy Soul, Polyvore, Spring 2016, Street Style, Trend Report

White Hot

May 9, 2016 Liberata Leave a comment

If there’s one thing that fashion and beauty bloggers have in common, its probably our fear of white.

Personally, I’ve successfully avoided the color for years now. For no other reason than I’ve never been able to keep anything I’ve put on that was white to actually remain white through out the day. And if I ever needed a reminder, any guy I’ve dated that was dumb enough to wear white with me could provide it. Really- you guys should know better by now. Bottom line, I’m a high maintenance girl.

Yeah- I said it.

Between bronzers, makeup, tinted lotions… you get the point. But besides all that, I’ve never really felt like I was missing out on much. I spend most of my mornings dutifully adding and applying color to myself- why then put on something completely devoid of it?

So again, I never felt like I was missing out on anything… until now.

Its no shock with summer around the corner that white is once again having a moment. But its different this time. There’s something sexier about it. It feels bold. Refreshing. Even… powerful. Or maybe it just took me this long to realize what a brave color it is to actually pull off. And I’m not referring to the dirt factor. I mean that it truly takes a certain level of confidence to wear white because it offers no other visual distractions from… well, you.

How’s that for deep?

But back to the point. Going back to Spring’s Fashion Weeks, white was actually a big factor. Everyone from Balmain to Balenciaga to Chanel to Ralph Russo featured stunning all-white looks in their collections. But we got so caught up in vibrant prints and insane accessories, that they never got the credit they deserved. Don’t get me wrong- we’re still every bit obsessed with prints. And accessories. Especially accessories. But sometimes its nice just to give “extreme” a rest, and stand out with a clean, monochromatic look instead.

white hot summer spring fashion liberata dolce bohemian style balenciaga — Balenciaga

Balmain

white hot summer spring fashion liberata dolce bohemian style greg lauren — Greg Lauren

white hot summer spring fashion liberata dolce bohemian style — Roberto Cavalli

And don’t worry if white’s still not your thing. There were actually a few colors that had exceptional monochromatic moments that I only recently revisited. It took about a second of fashion boredom for me to look back at my archives and suddenly I felt re-inspired. Inspired by simplicity, of all things. The simplicity of eliminating the frustration of successfully mixing prints in my life (even if it was only for a day).

The simplicity of making a statement by not trying to make a statement at all.

The simplicity of reducing any further complications- because sometimes, life is hard enough.

But above all….

Lela Rose Fashion Show Ready to Wear Collection Spring Summer 2016 in New York

….the simplicity of wearing any single, solid color simply because its gorgeous.

Or because it makes you feel amazing.

And who doesn’t need a little more of that in their day?

So next time you feel like you’re in a fashion rut- just stop. Stop all of it. Take a step back. And keep it simple. Don’t over-complicate something that should be a natural reflection of who you are. And who knows… you might just surprise yourself at how fabulous you really are. With or without prints.

X

Blogger Style, Fashion, Polyvore, Spring 2016, Street Style, Trend Report

Spring ’16 Fashion Sets

May 4, 2016 Liberata Leave a comment

Many of you are already aware of the fashion playground known as Polyvore.

For those not yet familiar, I’ll explain. And apologize in advance. As it will quickly become your new favorite addiction.

Regardless of your creative passion- interior design, fashion, beauty- Polyvore allows you to create your very own personalized sets and collections of whatever you desire, however you desire. The more you create, the higher you rank. And the higher you advance through different levels, not only do you gain more exposure (literally all over the world), but you could even earn the chance to go to Fashion Week.

Not a bad deal for doing something you already love, right?

But why do I really love it?? Much like taking notes while studying, Polyvore allows me to visually map out my observations and predictions on current and upcoming trends while giving me the opportunity to test my own style ideas. Not to mention the designers and brands I discovered as a result is a reward in itself.

Its kind of like playing dress up, but with virtually anything you want. Plus, its no secret I’m a bit of a shopping addict- so this is extremely useful in satisfying those inconvenient cravings.

And by inconvenient craving, I mean more like a constant urge until the day arrives that I can afford to walk into Bergdorf Goodman and buy everything.

Literally, ev-ery-thing.

But until then, there’s Polyvore.

And I love you for it.

Scroll through and click on each of my following sets for Spring 2016 to understand why….

Beauty, Blogger Style, Bohemian, Fall Fashion, Fashion, Gypsy Soul, Polyvore, Prolific Quarterly, Street Style, Trend Report, Winter Fashion

BTS With Lorraine Castle

February 15, 2016 Liberata Leave a comment

…

What started as a simple collaboration between two local artists….

…would ultimately turn into a published adventure.

…

I first met Lorraine back in September. Having just relocated here, she was anxious to dive back into her first love and natural given talent- photography. And after just one look at her prior work, I was happy to help in any way I could. Together, we decided that a beach shoot made the most sense. Bohemian, natural, fashion forward…basically, everything I love. And living by the beach year round, it should be noted that bohemian is more than just a passing trend. Here, its a lifestyle. An attitude. Both of which I LOVE to shoot, as it speaks easily to my natural born gypsy soul.

Fast forward to a very unnaturally cold day in October. Remember- this is Florida. Anything below 70 is considered miserable. But not only were we dealing with chilly temps, but the wind was flat out unbearable. Especially for a shoot. For instance: blonde hair + red lip gloss + high winds = I. Cant. Even.

Unless you want to miss out on shooting one of the most beautiful series, thanks in part TO the wind.

We sure as hell didn’t.

So we powered on. And thanks to Lorraine Castle, made editorial magic on a less than magical day.

Now, because I’m a straight up hustler when it comes to achieving my goals in life, I decided to take our work one step further. Lorraine’s work was too beautiful not to. And so I took a chance with a publication that had featured some work of mine before- Prolific Quarterly. But I wanted more out of the experience than just to simply be published- that goal had already been achieved long ago. No, darling, I wanted more. I wanted to WRITE. More specifically, I wanted to make a new impact in this industry that would help me advance to the next level. I wanted to piece together an editorial, where I could write about fashion, that would feature my photos. Its kinda like having your cake, and eating it too.

And Lorraine could not have been more supportive. Because without her hard work and dedication to the project, there simply would be no cake. Or in this case, editorial. We narrowed down shots, choosing ones that made sense for the content of the article, while showcasing her talent. She edited. I wrote. And together, created a beautiful editorial that was published in Prolific Quarterly’s Winter Edition. 8 glossy pages that contained so much more than the words and pictures printed on them. Like late nights, freezing temperatures, wardrobe malfunctions, hurricane strength winds, strained eyes, short deadlines…. but above all of that- PASSION. And the belief that is was ALL going to be worth it.

And it was.

So thank you, Lorraine Castle- your professionalism and dedication are the reasons many of us strive to work with talented artists such as yourself. Because you help restore the passion and respect in this sometimes questionable industry.

Included is a gallery of some BTS shots, many of which never made it to print, but still command the attention and appreciation of Lorraine’s work.

For more info on Lorraine Castle, or to book YOUR shoot, CLICK HERE.

I hope you all love them as much as I do-

…

Until next time, Dolls…

X

#BombshellCode, Beauty, Bohemian, Fashion, Gypsy Soul, Polyvore

Bohemian Baby

August 12, 2015 Liberata 2 Comments

Free People for the Gypsy Soul

…

As I’m sure we’re all aware of by now- I’m a free spirit at heart. A self-proclaimed Bohemian Bombshell.

There is nothing I love more than a whimsical summer dress. One that reveals just the right amount of skin to be sexy, yet covers the right amount to still be worn in public. The deeper the plunge, the barer the back, the better. If the material is sheer enough that a equally stunning slip is required, I’m in festival fashion nirvana.

Maybe its my love of music. Maybe its my hippie roots. But there is no other style I connect with more.

I feel girlie. I feel sexy. I feel… free.

And as a result, there is no brand I love more than Free People.

Look Into The Sun Maxi, $98

…

I recently teamed up with David John Lantrip to capture some of my favorite pieces this summer. Each one radiates that iconic Free People feel with material so perfectly draped and flows so effortlessly, its hard not to spend your day twirling in circles on a beach. Though I might encourage you to throw on some Milky Chance and try it for at least a minute or two.

Here’s why-

To me, fashion should be an extension of your personality. Another way to express who you are. And just like your mood, you have the right to change that look, or vibe, anytime you like. At least, thats my excuse for why I have so many clothes. I have never once been that person who was able to decide what I wanted to wear the night before. Although I envy people that can- they must save themselves SO much time. But the fact is, I dress according to my mood. Or to change my mood entirely.

Wait- what?

That’s right. For instance, lets say I wake up one morning, and I feel…. less than enthusiastic about the day to come. Maybe I’m stressed. Maybe I just broke up with someone. Maybe I don’t even need a reason. Because I’m a female. Now think about what you might feel like wearing. I bet leggings, a messy topknot and a giant scarf sound pretty damn good right now?

Wrong.

Because being basic is the LAST thing that’s going to help you counteract everything the world is going to throw at you today.

So girl, you better walk your cute ass to the closet, pick out the brightest dress you have, along with the highest heels you own. Wear your most expensive lingerie. And attack this world with the best attitude you can summon while applying the perfect baby pink pout.

I challenge any of you to try this trick the next time you feel down.

And I’ll just go ahead and say it now- You’re welcome.

Now back to my original point…

You see, people make the mistake of dressing for the wrong reasons. And its usually for OTHER people. If you think you might be on of these individuals, please stop. Now. Because the truth is, no one that dresses for others can ever be confident with themselves. I don’t care if you’re a beacon of the RTW Fall 2015 Balmain ollection. It will never work unless you’re wearing it for YOU. And only you.

Which is why I connect so strongly with Free People. Every time I slip into one of their pieces, I feel like I’m gearing up for Coachella all over again. I feel calm. I feel natural. I feel feminine.

I feel beautiful.

And because of the neutral tones of their collections, there is literally no limit when it comes to accessorizing. Though I will admit, I’m an accessory junkie. And I have the stash to prove it. So if you’re sporting a plunging neckline, then attention should be drawn to it. (#BombshellCode) With layers of long delicate chains, carefully hanging at just the right lengths so each charm/pendant gets the admiration they deserve.

Or perhaps your dress is backless? Simply take those same necklaces, but flip them backwards. Or choose just one- preferably something big, bold and bright. Its an unexpected pop of color to highlight (and emphasize) one of the most underplayed, yet sexiest parts of your body.

Perhaps you want to go the minimalist route? That’s okay too. This is where unique pieces come in. Like arm cuffs and hand jewelry- these are all brilliant examples of individual pieces that often get lost unless they’re worn alone.

Maybe hats are your thing? Good. And if they’re not, make them your thing. Like, yesterday. And remember- the bigger, the better. Free People’s Ranchero Matador Hat (pictured on the right) is everything.

And dare we forget about bags?

Never.

Keep the bohemian vibe going with leather. Fringe will add extra drama. Plus, if you’re not into large bags, these will give the illusion of one without the extra bulk. And here’s a special treat for my fellow equestrian friends: this particular bag from Horse & Nail even features a two tone snaffle bit.

It. Is. Perfection…

Horse & Nail Altair Hobo at Free People, $890

So your maxi carried you through the day, but can it pack the same punch at night? You bet your sun-kissed cheeks it can. With a simple attitude shift with your accessories, you’ll go from flat out Boho to Boho-Chic. And trading your Hobo bag in for a compact clutch is the first step. This particular one from St. Xavier is like Alexander McQueen at the beach- it couldn’t be more perfect if it tried.

St. Xavier Zane Il Clutch for Free People, $98 (available in Gold or Silver)

And finally, lets talk about those locks. Thanks to a day of ocean air, you now have been blessed with hair so filled with body and beachwaves that even the most skilled stylist couldn’t duplicate. You smell like sunshine and salt and the last thing you want to do is ruin it. And you don’t need to. Simply pin back enough strands to keep your hair long and loose using a few bobby pins. Adorned or plain, there have never been so many creative options-

And by the way, I think this is the perfect time to talk about the latest trend for fall. One that I, for one, am already a HUGE fan of. Introducing the “Hun”. The half up, half down bun.

Go ahead and try not to fall in love with this look….