Tag Archives: street style

Summer Style: Sexy or Sweet?

Every time summer rolls around, I find myself having the same fashion debate with myself.  But before we get into that, let me explain my thought process…

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A season already known primarily for how little one wears, it makes what few articles you do actually adorn yourself with all that much more important.  But summer is bigger than just bikinis.  Maybe not to men, but for you… it’s a season that evokes feelings of innocence.  Freedom.  Adventure.  No doubt all nods to your childhood, when all you needed were your friends, a pool, and a few stolen cigarettes (that none of you were ever brave enough to inhale).  But more importantly, remember how careless you felt about… well, pretty much everything?  Remember how good it felt to get wet and not care about your hair?  Or when the time that the street lights came on was more important than how shiny your face had gotten?  Because the only makeup you needed was your summer tan (those were still considered fairly safe to have then…).

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It was pretty amazing, right?

Life was simple.  “Calories” was just a weird word your parents used.  And boys were dumb.  And while maybe not everything has changed since then, most of us face a much different reality today:

Life is only as simple as you make it.  Calories are fucking evil.  And most guys are still generally pretty stupid.

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So with all the pressures our adult lives will no doubt bring- like bad dates, bills and cardio, why are we purposely doing the same thing to our style?  Why are we still rushing to grow up?  So what if we’re adults?  If there’s one way we can keep that young innocence about us, even if its just for a little longer, its through fashion.  I’m not saying you have to go all Lolita on everyone.  But maybe chill with your summer sexbomb arsenal for just a minute?  Stop thinking about whats going to slim what area.  Don’t worry about what Becky’s going to think.  And dress for the moment.  For summer.

For FUN.

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There’s a quote I heard once.  Maybe from the movie Vanilla Sky?  But I’ve loved it, as its one of the purest yet simplest truths I’ve heard-

“Never lose your childish enthusiasm and things will go your way.”

So why shouldn’t we apply this same theory to what we wear as well?  Why not reconnect to how it felt to get ready with the only purpose of attacking the day before us, and any adventure it might bring?  Sure, you don’t get a summer vacation anymore, but you do have days off.  So enjoy them with that same reckless energy.  Get all “young, wild, free” for a day.  Cause it will be back to Boss-mode and Spanx on Monday.

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When I look at my own style, half of me wants to be the vampy bombshell, suggestively displaying each curve to provoke just the right amount of hysteria from the opposite sex.   The other half wants to be the innocent, girl next door type who’s down for anything.  You know who I mean- the doe eyed girl that loves ponytails, sundresses and America.

But what I actually am is somewhere right in the middle.  A perfect balance of sexy and sweet.  Provocative, but girlie.  What I wear is merely the determining factor in which direction I feel like going that day.  And when summer rolls around, the girl next door side just seems to win a lot more often.

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And that’s where my original question comes into play.  Sometimes I have to remind myself that summer is supposed to be a season of fun, regardless of age.  A season of long, lazy days at the beach.  Cocktail filled nights with friends.  Steamy dates with boys.  And with all that, who has time to worry about much else.

So throw on some heart shaped sunnies.  Wear pink.  Dance.  A lot.  Makeout even more.  And give your inner Power Bitch a break.  Be the Badass Girl Next Door who isn’t afraid to get wet.  Or to lose a little control.  We both know you’re gorgeous either way.

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So go ahead.  Dive in.

Happy Summer Dolls…

X

It’s a Date.

Few things bring can be as terrifying as the challenge of determining what to wear on a first date.

I mean… except for the actual first date itself, of course.

But seriously- think about all the pressure that goes into one little outfit.  This could be the man you’ve been waiting your entire life for.  Or he could be a total idiot.  Either way, you’ll be saying a lot about who you are simply by what you have on.

And who you are is a confident, sexy, bad ass woman.

Yasssss, girl, I see you!

Okay, but how exactly does a confident, sexy, bad ass woman dress?  Well… that’s the thing.  There’s no set definition anymore.  Think about the last time someone walked into a room and you really felt their presence.  Chances are when you picture them now, you’re not focused on what they had on, but rather the confidence, or power they exuded.  You know right away that this person has complete control.

In other words, they’re secure.

They know who they are, and exactly what they have to offer.

As a result, what they’re wearing is simply a reflection of that security- and not a source of validation for it.

More importantly, these individuals aren’t dressing for you or anyone else, seeing that approval is the last thing they need.  And that is exactly how getting ready for a date should be.

So now back to my original question- what are you going to wear??  I know that telling you anything is pretty much fair game these days doesn’t help much.  But I do think having a firm understanding of how you want to feel does.  First dates are already stressful enough.  The desire to be the best “you” is understandable.  And as much as we hate thinking of a first date like a job interview, it kinda is…

So we have to prepare for both the same way: with honest confidence.

Yep- the key word here is “honest”.  In other words, throwing on a short revealing dress will almost certainly gain his attention.  And probably everyone else’s too.  Now, if that’s who you are, then you own that.  With no apologies.  I mean zero.  I will never tear a girl down who is simply staying true to who she is.  And if you’re a girl that loves to flaunt her curves then I support that.  But if this is NOT you, then you need to back away from the bodycon dresses.  At least for now.  There’s plenty of time for that down the road.

So what I’m saying is- keep it casual.  That’s right.  This fashionista is actually telling you to keep it simple.  Well, more like simple-ish.  And just to clarify, casual does not mean you can look like you’re on your way to yoga.  Even if that is who you are.  (Unless of course your first date is actually going to yoga….)  Because even a first date deserves the respect of effort on your behalf.

Effort = Interest

So what is considered casual?

First of all, casual should be looked at as an overall tone of the look, and not a uniform.  Its a style that is literally in the styling itself.  Casual can mean jeans and a t-shirt…. except the t-shirt is knotted to expose just the slightest hint of skin.  Meaning, its a look that combines equal parts of both naturally sexy and effortlessly chic.  As women, this is something we ALL have.  Think of all the times you’ve heard men talk about how much more beautiful we are without makeup (lies…).  Or how amazing we look in the morning when we first wake up (more lies…).   Maybe we do… Maybe we don’t…  Either way, I believe these opinions are based off of something deeper than simply the existence of one’s outer beauty.  They’re seeing something more honest.  Raw.  Vulnerable.  And that’s incredibly sexy to men.  Because guess what- the real you is sexy.  Yes girl!  Eyebrows on fleek, or not.  And keeping it casual on a first date is about as close as allowing a man to see you in those situations as you can get.  Unless you actually wake up with him the next morning.  Which would be frowned upon…

Though I’m still not casting any judgement.

So now the fun part…..

A personal list of my favorite coveted date night looks, perfect for just about any situation or mood.  Find one that speaks to you and give it a shot.  Because while I cant promise the guy wont turn out to be a total idiot, I CAN say these looks are positively fool-proof….

Denim

Ripped, skinny, boycut- they ALL work.  Studies have shown this is the look men love the most.  Not that we care.  Because we wear what WE want to wear.  So if you’re a denim kind of girl, this is all you.

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Blazers & Cut-Off’s

Admit it- who doesnt love showing a little leg?  But just like everything else in life, the key is balance.  So go ahead.  Throw on your shortest shorts.  Just top off the look with a casual tee or tank.  Add a blazer.  And boom- you’re the girl next store, with a 401K.  Now who doesn’t want that??

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Dresses

The classic staple.  And spring nights just beg for a flirty, flowing dress.  If ultra feminine is your thing, then a romantic little dress is all it takes.

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Leather

For my rocker babes.  Because you like a little edge with your romance.  Though a rebel at heart, deep down you’re a lover- not a fighter.

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Bohemian

My personal favorite.  Because I believe all a girl really needs in life is sangria and Free People.

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Straight From Work

We’ve all been there.  You’re running late, or maybe you’re just a boss bitch.  But like any true hustler, you know how to make it work when you need some time to play and you’re short on time.  A quick change of accessories and its game on

Slay.

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White/Black

Nothing basic or boring here.  You just know how to keep things classy.  I ain’t mad atcha…  He wont be either.

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Hair/Makeup

And finally, that last finishing touch.  As you may already know, now is not the time to try any new looks.  Tempting as it is to try something different, this rarely turns out to be a good idea in this particular situation.  For instance, if you’re not someone who wears false lashes on the regular, don’t.  Just don’t.  And this applies to anything else you may be thinking about extending, enlarging or contouring.

Less is truly more here.

You’re welcome.

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And there you have it ladies.  Come hither looks that should be as effortless as your potential relationship.

No smokey eye required.  No cleavage necessary.

Now get your fine self out there and turn some heads.

And steer clear of the idiots.

And remember that when all else fails in love, there’s still sangria and Free People.

______________________________

X

Prolific Quarterly

Happy Valentine’s Day dolls….

Since today is all about love,

and I love YOU,

I wanted to apologize for my lack of posts lately.

However, with that comes great news that I can finally share with you all.

Starting Tuesday, February 16th, Prolific Quarterly will be featuring posts from your truly.  Teaming up with this  publication, which concentrates on primarily on lifestyle, entertainment and high fashion, is an absolute honor.

Many of you already know I was featured in their Winter Edition, Noir et Blanc.  The experience, which started off as just a model for a pictorial, turned into writing my first published written editorial.  And the rest is history.  Its also a testament to what I preach most to you about on here- having confidence in yourself and living the life YOU want.

While I will continue to post work on here, I encourage you all to check out my weekly posts for Prolific Quarterly which will be updated every Tuesday.

You love and support has been an absolute blessing, and I cant wait to see what the future stills holds.  And you can remain confident that whatever it brings from a fashion or beauty perspective, you’ll be able to read about it.

Because I LOVE writing about it.

To follow my posts for Prolific Quarterly, visit HERE.

To order a digital or hard copy of Noir et Blanc, visit HERE.

Stay fabulous Dolls…

Part 1: Spring Has Sprung….. Almost.

A look at Spring/Summer 2016- what you need.  NOW.

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I’ll confess…

Spring has always been my favorite season.  Never mind the warmer temperatures and longer days.  Its so much more than that.  Spring represents a time of new.  Its as if Mother Nature finally wakes up after another long dull winter, takes a look around, cringes, and starts adding color and life to literally everything.

And you should too.

And what better place to start than within your own wardrobe.  But be prepared to make plenty of room for this season’s trends.  Cause you’re going to want them all.

You’re probably sick of looking at all those heavy, over-sized, curve-hiding, skin-covering pieces anyway.  I AM.  And that is EXACTLY why Spring is so damn amazing when it comes to fashion.  Textures finally lighten up, giving way for shorter, sheerer options while colors palettes increase.  I mean, REALLY increase.  In addition to that, dresses become more playful.  More girly.   More exposed.  Think flowing, draping silhouettes that will have you feeling Goddess status.  Even the patterns amp it up with bold vibrancy, while accessories become more delicate.  And finally, we get to trade the tired feeling of wool against our skin for something more sultry and feminine- silk.

If you weren’t already excited, you are now.

So what trends should you invest in now?  If you’re like me, you collect clothes.  Like an investor.  You don’t shop- you build.  You constantly keep your eyes open, slowly acquiring those cant-live-without-pieces to add to your collection.  The show stoppers.  The game changers.  Its a little practice called “Buy now, wear later”.   You have an entire lineup of stunners just waiting for the right occasion.  Or, in this case, month.  In other words:

You don’t buy the dress for the party- you go to the party so you can wear the dress.

#BombshellCode

So with that being said, lets take a look at some of the S/S 2016 trends you can count on to turn heads, no party needed.

1. Lingerie

You read that right.  Except we’re not talking about the Victoria’s Secret type- people tend to frown upon you walking around in your bra and underwear.  But this trend is as close as it can get.  Because this season is all about the return of the slip dress.  If you’re the bombshell type, you’re probably use to wearing these.  Albeit, up until now, it was only at home when you were feeling casual and that was the best you could do.  But now, even running to Starbucks in one is fair game.  And a simple adjustment in accessories can take the look straight into night.  Or, tone it down and keep it more boho with ankle boots.  Because the best part about this trend is the versatility factor.  Keep it as glam, or as quirky as you please- you’ll look amazing either way.

Pro Tip:  To keep the look extra sexy and authentic, shop vintage.  Not only will you score something unique, but the idea of a retro slip is sooooo much more chic.

Below, from top left, Chloe RTW S/S 16, Vintage, and Saint Laurent RTW S/S 16.

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2. Modern Bohemian- barely there boho meets vibrant tropical prints

Once again, the bohemian trend shows no end in site.  And I LOVE it.  But this time, feel free to go wild with it.  And by wild, I mean prints.  Its Boho, but with a twist.  Its less about the simplicity of pieces and lace details and more about dramatic details.  Like birds.  Or at the very least, feathers….

From left, McQueen, Gucci, Valentino and McQueen again (full sized).

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But boho is more than birds and feathers right now.  Its about embellishment.  Whether its patches or patterns, color is key.  And lots of it….

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3. Pleats

If you suddenly got excited when I mentioned flowing fabrics earlier, than this look is all you.

Maxi dresses have never looked so lux.  And who would have thought that something as simple as pleat would be the element to take a standard spring staple from comfy to flat out goddess.  And the colors are a visual feast for everyone.  Get ready to stop traffic…

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4. Metallics

Accessory lovers, get excited.  I mean, even more excited than you already are.  Cause you get to have some fun this season.  During Fashion Week, we saw everything from the return of spikes, to gloves, to beyond oversized statement necklaces.  But one thing was consistent- the use of metallics.  Bronze or pewter, they’re both on point.  And even better when worn together.  So mix it up, or tie your look together with one bold piece.  Its all fair game.

Pro tip: NOTHING looks better against metallics than tan skin.  But for the sake of safety, skip the tanning bed and hit Sephora instead.  Get your golden glow on without a side of cancer.

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So there you go, dolls.

These trends should keep you inspired enough to safely secure how you’ll be spending that upcoming tax refund.  Personally, mine is pretty much as good as gone…  Or at the very least, these ideas will keep you busy until Part 2.  But just like everything else, spring will be here before you know it.  And its always better to lead the way with fashion.  So take these tips, and twist them into your own unique way to express yourself this season.  Because just like I always stress, no matter your style, it should always represent you.

So… what do you want to say to the world this Spring?

Till next time…

X

 

Hats Off To Fall

Oh.  My.  God.

Its here.

And by “it”, I mean Fall.  Today is officially the first day of my absolute favorite season.  And no- its not for the pumpkin spice lattes either.  Personally I think they’re overrated (and gross).  Yeah, I said it.  Feel free to direct any hate mail to NoOneCares@EspeciallyMe.com.

But here’s why I DO love it:  chilly nights, the changing of leaves, fires, sweaters, hot apple cider (spiked, please), scarves, and the return of layering.  And really, the return of ALL accessories.  From gloves to hats, your style options nearly double thanks to the cooler temps.

Which brings me to my current obsession-

Hats.

I’m also comfortable enough to admit to you guys that this wasn’t always a trend that I was on board with.  I thought every hat looked “stupid” on me.  Seriously.  So much so that I refused to even try them on in public.  Now don’t get me wrong- some still do.  I will never pull off a baseball cap (and I’m not all that said about it either).  But something happened recently.  Something amazing.  Something so sinfully good I can feel myself biting my lip as I type this.

What happened was….

I stopped giving a shit about what anyone else thought.

And I put on a hat.  Except I didn’t just throw it on, while I breezed out my door with that kind of effortless grace that makes you think of Audrey Hepburn.  No, child.  But I applaud those that can.

Instead, I looked at the things I didn’t like when I had on a hat on.  Because as it would turn out, it really wasn’t the hat at all.  It never was.  It was everything around it- my hair, my neckline, even my lip color.  So basically, I learned how to frame it.  I learned that a wide brimmed fedora is everything.  And that I like my hats cocked to one side, and slightly over one eye.  That I like to pull my hair into a big, messy sideknot.  That I like a bright, dramatic lip so it pops next to the dark fabric.  And that I LOVE pairing a hat with a giant scarf.

Here’s a look at #WhatIWoreToday

Hat by ALDO, Franchetti in black ($35).

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And I can tell you that with this look, I get this unique feeling that’s somewhere between “badass” and “glamour queen”.  I feel mysterious.  I feel confident.

I feel…. put together.

Like a hat was that one final accessory my wardrobe has been looking screaming for.  An added element of style expression that can single handedly change the entire tone of one single outfit.

For more style inspiration and looks to try click HERE.

So whether you’re a dedicated hat fan, or new to the game entirely, this is THE season to step outside your comfort zones and take a few fashion risks.  For example-

Go oversized and low…

liberata dolce blogger style fall fashion 2015 accessories lanvin

Shooting for a casual look?  Go neutral and chic and pair with flares….

liberata dolce blogger style fall fashion 2015 accessories flares casual

Prefer bold and dramatic?  Me too.  Than monochromatic maroon is all you, sugar…

liberata dolce blogger style fall fashion 2015 accessories hats monochrome vogue

Or maybe you’re not into the fedora look in general.  Don’t worry- I got you.  Because knit textures are just as playful and daring.  Plus, they give off that kind of effortless vibe that begs to be paired with long, loose waves and skinny jeans…

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Regardless of your preference, my last word of advice is this-

Try them all.  At least once.

  And you just might surprise yourself…

I know I did.

#BombshellCode

X

Berries, Brooches and Boots…. Oh My.

My favorite season is literally right around the corner.

Fall.

The season of perfectly pieced together layers.  The season of messy updo’s and berry-stained lips.  The season of sweaters, scarves, skies-the-limit thigh high boots, your favorite vintage leather jacket, your… I cant.

Because this year, I get to celebrate the arrival of Fall with the success of reaching yet another career milestone- my very own store.

Well, it’s not exactly “MINE”.  But its mine in the sense that I am now responsible for every single aspect of its success.  No biggie.  I mean, come on, you’ve read a little bit about the men I’ve dated.  You’ve gotten a taste of my fashion sense.  Obviously, it takes a LOT to shake my confidence.

And that’s good.

Because with my new role comes the complete freedom to push work day fashion to the absolute limit.  To boldly express myself the best way I know how.  The universal language of fearless style that simply says- “I’m a Boss“.

(Honestly, can I get an Amen??)

We all know the proper term for dressing like a professional:

Business Casual

Gag.

Now take whatever outfit you have pictured in your head and throw it away.  And don’t ever bring it up again.

Because if the Fall/Winter 2015-16 runways showed us anything, its that business is ANYTHING but basic.  Of course, there are always going to be the familiar and iconic seasonal hints of warmer tones (berries/nudes), layered buttery soft textures (leather/fur), and slightly heavier accessories.  But this year its more detailed than ever.

Its edgy.  Its polished.

Its heaven.

So with that, I decided to share my own personal challenge of the moment.  The challenge of building a wardrobe not only for a new career, but for a new season.  A visual guide of staples so chic, you’ll wonder how your closet (or you, for that matter) ever survived without them.

Bring it.

 In a previous post (See Post Here) I talked about Fashion Week’s most coveted Fall looks.  And sure enough, those trends are everything they promised they would be.  But we need to break it down even more.  Because you’re not just a Fashionista- you’re a Boss.  A tiger.  A strong independent female who calls the shots.  In all areas of her life.  In heels.  You’re trying to run the world AND look fierce.

#1:  LEATHER

Leather leggings are everything this season.  I prefer styles that feature more of a motocross look to them- zippers, textured prints, etc.  It gives them a slightly more interesting look, and are way more forgiving to anyone who doesn’t have perfect mile long twig-like legs (and honestly, who really does?).

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But that’s not only way we’ll see leather this Fall.  Fashionistas rejoice- it is now 100% acceptable (and encouraged- by me) to be worn to worn.  But keeping it classy is key.  I don’t care where you work- looking like you’re heading to a Stones concert probably wont be appreciated.  Unless, of course, you’re actually going to a Stones concert.  So the trick here is simply a looser fit.  That instantly keeps leather more chic, less BDSM.

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So maybe leather pants aren’t your thing?  Maybe you saw that episode of Friends where Ross tried them on- and it scarred you for life.  And that’s okay.  I still have plenty of other leather options to help keep you on point this season.

Like skirts.  Yes darling, you read that correctly.

Leather.  Skirts.

And I cant lie- this is probably one of my favorite fall accessories.  And the styles are limitless.  Fringed, short, long, adorned, plain, asymmetrical- anything goes.  And as long as you’re keeping your proportions (and hemlines) in check, you’ll be able to rock any of these looks to work AND keep it classy-

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And of course, I saved my favorite leather piece for last- the always classic, always chic, always perfect leather jacket.  The only trick here is to keep it fitted.  Don’t be afraid of color either.  But black, camel and white all scream 70’s chic while keeping things classy.  Collar or no collar- its up to you.  Studded or plain Jane?  Either is fine.

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#2:  Blanket Scarves

I’ll be honest.  I was one of the first to rock these last winter.  And I had a lot of very mixed reactions.  Men, of course, were confused- “Why is it so… big??”.  I remember one particular date where the guy told me it was “weird”.  I’m sure he also found it weird when he never heard from me again.  But most people were just curious.  And with so many different way to wear them, I cant really blame them.  But the best part about these babies is right in the name itself- they literally become blankets if needed.  And who doesn’t love that?  Plus, if you’re stuck in a blanket scarf styling rut, simply head to YouTube.  There are plenty of videos from stylists showing you ingenious new ways to wear them.  Here are some of my favorite classic looks for blanket scarf beginners-

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#3: Monochrome- Black/White

Okay, seriously.  Is there anything more classic than head to toe black?  There is now- White.  Remember the old rule of never wearing white after Labor Day?  Good news- you can now file that in the same place where it says you cant mix gold and silver.  Who even came up with these “rules” in the first place??  To me, an all-white look is a symbol of strength.  Class.  Status.  Confidence.  Even dignity.  No one dares wear white, let alone ALL white, unless they plan to be seen.  And heard.  The same can be said for black.  An all black ensemble screams utter sophistication.  Luxury.  Power.  Regardless of your preference, these two monochromatic looks both deliver the same message- “Look, but don’t you dare touch”.

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#4:  Grunge Tee’s

You heard me.  The chance to mix your inner child and outer boss.  Just please- keep it appropriate.  In other words, feel free to declare your love for My Little Pony or Guns N Roses.  Avoid political messages or personal beliefs.  While I’m all for making a statement, one that could potentially offend a co-worker (or anyone, really) is just ignorant.  Spread love, not hate- #BombshellCode.  So use your imagination.  Tap into your creativity.  Or musical inspiration.  And have FUN with this trend.  Jus be sure to balance it out by keeping the rest of your outfit more structured and tailored.  This is the key to pulling this one off.  Its the perfect combination of quirky and chic by adding that unexpected element of playfulness.  And who knows- maybe you’ll catch the eye of another secret Aerosmith fan.  😉

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#5:  Accessories

My favorite.  There is no better investment simply for the fact that accessories are the details that can make or break any outfit.  At the same time, they can completely change any outfit.  The addition, or removal, can take an outfit from day to night, or vice versa.  And chances are, they’re worth holding on to.  Because unlike a lot of other trend pieces, accessories CAN be recycled.  Often through multiple seasons even.  Take the Bohemian movement for example.  Many thought it would be over with by the end of summer.  As we were preparing to pack our feather cuffs away next to our Coachella ticket stubs, Fall 15/16 came along and breathed life right back into it.  Albeit slightly darker.   So fear not, gypsy souls.  Many of your summer favorites can transition into your fall wardrobe.

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#6:  Thigh-high Boots

Thigh high lovers- this one’s for you.  This season we’ll be shattering sex pot records.  Fashion week unveiled boots so high, sometimes it was hard to tell just where they ended.

And I couldn’t be happier.

Wear over leggings, or alone with a dress leaving just a peek of thigh.  Avoid looking too disco queen when it comes to material.  Flat out leather is best.  Anything shiny needs to be kept strictly for outside of the office.

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#7:  Brooches

Another trend I touched on in a previous post, this is probably my favorite for the season.  Its a chance to mix old with new.  A chance to personalize each outfit with details NO ONE else will have.  And its a chance to comb every vintage store in your area.  As if you needed one…  But seriously, theres finally a trend out right now that I can honestly say I haven’t tried before.  And even better- you can go absolutely crazy with it.  That’s the whole point!  So grab every brooch you can find.  And then plan on needing at least 20 more.  And pin them wherever you see fit.  Shirts, collars, cuffs- even your hair.  The more dramatic and personalized, the better.

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And there you have it darlings.  A general overview of how I’m preparing for both my new adventure and Fall.  And whileits important to pay homage to trends, and embrace them while we can, its even more important to remember that trends come and go.  They should be treated as an enhancement to your personal style.  Because style is forever.  In other words, the most successful fashionistas are ones that take trends, and tweak them to make them their own.

WE wear the clothes- the clothes do not wear us.

#BombshellCode

So have fun.  Mix it up.  And be fabulous.

But be YOU.

Because the best thing you could ever put on is your confidence.

X

To see more of these looks, or for more ideas, simply visit (and follow!) these two Pinterest boards:

I Mean Business

Fall Fashion Guide 2015