Author Archives: shannonlewis

Lovely Leggings: A Couple Ground Rules to Keep you Looking Fabulous this Winter

Leggings (funrahi.com)

Leggings are one of the most versatile clothing items a woman can wear. Wear them to work with boots, to yoga class, the gym, and even on a night out with the girls. I have never heard of any other clothing item that you can do this with. You definitely can’t with jeans, sweatpants, or flannel pajamas right? So let’s get down to some tips on how to wear  these amazing bottoms that create many enjoyable and comfortable outfits.

There are two ground rules to wearing leggings: use layers and wear boots. One look  I’ve heard is a no-no, would be the Ugg Boots. Wearing them with leggings is more of a comfort thing which should probably be left at home. But if it makes you happy wearing them out, by all means, go for it! Just make sure that you are wearing tops that are long enough. Short tops don’t really go along with leggings as they are stretchy. Jeans are better with shorter tops. And layer, layer, layer the tops for the most stylish look you can get.

Not sure what is good for layering? Layers can include but aren’t limited to, a scarf, a long tank top,

Leggings with long tops (looklingerlove.com/blog/fashion/tops-that-are-just-long-enough)

a tee-shirt, a button up, a tunic, a sweater, and a jacket. As for the boots, real or faux leather boots are absolutely adorable with a length of just below or anywhere from 2 to 4 inches below the knee. Above the knee boots are great too. Give them a try! It really does depend on what works for you as everyone is a different height.

Long Layered Tops (http://www.pinterest.com/pin/1337074864365268)

Long Layered Tops (http://www.pinterest.com/pin/1337074864365268)

A cute look with boots is above the knee socks underneath or leg warmers. They add a little something extra to your look and help keep you warmer in the winter. Do not wear ankle boots with leggings, just like the tops, the more length, the better, as there is not much to leggings but the skin tight material.

Be sure to wear thicker material, with a waistband and don’t be afraid to spend a little extra because the thinner and “cheaper” the material, the less time you’ll have to wear them because they’ll begin to get little holes everywhere very quickly. Leggings with patterns and colors are in and are beautiful to create fun outfits with. Just be sure to wear more solid tops with these.

Over the knee socks (pinterest.com/explore/over-knee-socks)

The less spandex, the better! You’ll want to be able to move around without having to worry about them being see-through. Especially if you’re wearing leggings to exercise.There aren’t really any limits to wearing leggings at the gym or your fitness or dance class, as this is an easygoing place to get in your workout, not a fashion show.

But the rest of the world is your own fashion show runway! So take these tips with you and you’ll look even more fabulous than you already do.

 

 

The 2014 Fashion Trends we’re Leaving Behind

Happy New Year! (http://harlemcondolife.com/2013/12/30/celebrate-harlem-new-years-eve)

It happens every year, there comes along a fashion trend that we absolutely fall in love with, buy it, and wear almost every day, because we want to stay in style. We see it everywhere we go, even on our favorite celebs. Sounds like these trends get a little worn out, right? Well, let’s find out what these trends are because its time to start saying goodbye to them and hello to a new year of new fashion trends.

Overalls, what a fun and easy look! Pair them with

Overalls(thehunt.com/the-hunt/P8zXrG-cute-overalls-like-this)

Overalls(thehunt.com/the-hunt/P8zXrG-cute-overalls-like-this)

your favorite tee and flats and you’re ready to head out the door. At least they were, but that’s so last year! This look is ready to head out the door for good. If you noticed your pair is fading, that’s OK, so is the trend completely.

Reflective Sunglasses (ebay.com/bhp/reflective-sunglasses)

Reflective Sunglasses (ebay.com/bhp/reflective-sunglasses)

Another easy to wear trend, reflective sunglasses hit hard this year in the music festival route, so trying a classical pair of round sunglasses may spice up the look and give it a little twist and flare. At least these glasses weren’t known as something “ugly”. The “ugly, chunky” shoe trend is hopefully staying in the past where it belongs. Its time to buy shoes that would consider pretty, its logical and good for your wallet. Let’s not waste any more money or time on trends that were known as ‘hideous’.

Crop Tops (curvesandchaos.com/2014/04/plus-size-crop-tops.html)

Crop tops were the biggest trend of 2014. They were seen everywhere on the red carpet and you could always count on finding them on at least a couple racks in any store. Perhaps a different shirt length trend will switch things up a bit for this adorable, yet overplayed look.

Plaid Shirt Around Waist (popchampagneblog.com/2013/11/gloom.html

Another shirt trend, the 90’s look known as tying a plaid shirt around the waist is coming to a halt. We thought it did about 20 years ago, but nope, it was too cute to pass up. But for New Year’s sake, try this 90’s trend: a sweater tied around the shoulders.

If you did not notice, the 90’s actually took over everything, including make-up and hair. Maybe we should concentrate on a new century, the 70’s bohemian vibe or the totally rad 80’s? Only 2015 will tell!

Winter Fashion Do’s and Don’ts

This Winter Season (shutterstock.com)

This Winter Season (shutterstock.com)

I’ve talked about winter fashion so here are some main do’s and don’ts to follow when rocking those styles. Do where colors! Black will only make you appear as though you’re just piling on clothing instead of accessorizing. Don’t over-do it though. Wearing a scarf, gloves, leg warmers, earmuffs, and a puffy jacket is just going to make you look more full and uncomfortable.

Find a way to feel great and be warm at the same time. This doesn’t mean you can’t wear more than one accessory at the same time, obviously wear as much as you need to be warm, just not every single piece you own all at once. A great example is arm warmers, leg warmers, a hat, and tall boots with your jacket, a look that is warm, stylish, and not too full.

While its a good idea to put colors into your accessories, also put them into your jackets, such as a

Colorful Leather Jackets (ibleedfashion.com)

red or blue leather jacket. Do pair a sweatshirt under a leather jacket for warmth, one of the hottest looks this season.

Don’t think you can’t wear your Summer items

Maxi Skirt (www.rubybows.com)

anymore! Use a maxi skirt or dress to pair with some ankle boots and a sweater to go under your jacket. Don’t retire your white after labor day.

White Outfit (popsugar.com)

Yes, I did say colorful items should be worn, but white is huge this season as well and all over the runway in accessories, boots, sweaters, and jackets.

 

Don’t be Afraid to Splurge

While its definitely great to shop and save money on clothes and accessories, sometimes splurging is worth more than you may realize. There are items that we want and some that we need, but no matter what the purpose is of your splurge, you may be getting more years and wear than you could by getting something that’s not so durable.

A pair of patent heels is a great investment. Go ahead and splurge on a pair for yourself, even if its just one pair of black that would match everything. They can be used for several occasions such as weddings, interviews, dances, or a night out on the town. They really touch up an outfit with by adding class or spicing it up a bit! So, why not? And why not find a great dress to go with them, the printed cocktail dress. Polka-dots and florals are great examples. These dresses are an amazing classic and bold enough to make a statement. The comfort and wow factor you get from these dresses and heels are totally worth the money.

A watch is the most practical piece of jewelry, it adds sophistication and is something you’ll keep for years to come. Another item practical enough to keep for years is the ballet flat. Its a staple item for any type of outfit with endless comfort. You’ll wear them more than your heels so carefully shop for them and find the best kind that will last through anything you walk through in your busy life.

Blue jeans, great with ballet flats, can be amazing if you find the right brand. Some may think jeans are just jeans, but they are so much more than that. They create an endless amount of outfits, dressy and casual. The variety they bring to your wardrobe with your heels, flats, accessories, and tops proves their worth. Buying high-end jeans will save you money in the end because a good brand will not rip or tear and cause you to spend over and over again on a new pair every month.

Now we all know clutches and handbags are essential for carrying all belongings we need to get through the day, so why not get one that is durable. Try a neutral colored clutch to go with any dressy outfit. Bags with short length straps and crossbodys really add the style we want to carry along with our outfit, whether we’re wearing a casual denim outfit or dressing it up. We don’t want something that isn’t going to rip. Trying out the splurging thing at least once will give us more days of comfort in knowing our products will last the as long as we need them to.

How to Dress the Oval Body Shape

Oval Body Shape (shopyourshape.com/body-shapes/oval-body-shape)

The oval body shape consists of a large bust, narrow hips, and a full midsection. When it comes to the lower part of the body, you may have somewhat flat buttocks and slender, shapely legs. Does the oval body shape sound like you? If so, keep on reading to find out what fashion tips to follow that help flatter your shape the best way possible.

To start, you want to create a more defined waist by

Tops that flare (hercampus.com/school/c-mich/try-it)

wearing tops with flare at the hips, and by wearing waistline belts. V and U shaped necklines are best for tops, especially with long necklaces and scarves to give an illusion if an elongated body. Bold and bulky necklaces are ok to draw attention to your upper-body. Be sure to wear darker colors and vertical seams and stripes. Something fun to try is wrap tops and jackets that will fit around your body with ease.Jackets with big pockets and a deep neckline help create lovely, curvy hips.

Pants with waistband (mysuitshop.com)

When it comes to pants, try wide waist bands and full, wide legs to keep you

comfortable and balance out your bottom half with the top half of your body. Full and flowy skirts and anything with embellished pockets are great to emphasis the buttocks and hips.

Some things to avoid are tucking in your tops, as this can add an illusion of

Full Skirts (portcityprescription.com/tag/garden)

Full Skirts (portcityprescription.com/tag/garden)

bulkiness. Don’t wear ruffles, pleats, or any extra material around the waistline. The fact that you are already beautiful is no illusion, and keeping these tips in mind will help create the best you possible!

 

 

Color ideas for winter

When you think of winter, you think of being surrounded by white snow and gloomy grey skies, right? Well, some good news; when it comes to fashion, that’s where we can mix things up and add

Bright Berry Color (etsy.com/market/crochet_knit_scarf)

a splash of color to our lives! The first color, which is also a great drink on a snowy winter night, is bright berry Sangria. Wear it as a lighter scarf, hat, or ear muffs, you’ll be sure to stick out among the crowd.

The next color to mention is not a surprise. Aurora red, a color

Aurora Red (polyvore.com)

perfect for the holidays. Here’s a classy and fun idea, wear it as a shiny dress with black heels and black clutch to keep the red radiant and you standing out from the crowd.

Muave Mist (rosanamiranda.com)

Mauve Mist, a unique, light purple is great for this season. Wear it to soften up an outfit away from fall’s darker browns and orange.  Royal blue, a big step away from anything soft, is great when you want to stand out at the work Christmas party or seeing your family for the first time in – well since last winter. You’ll stand out above the rest in a royal blue dress or

Royal Blue Color (shopmadeinchina.com)

even a pants suit when you pair it with red heels.

Misted Yellow (pinterest.com/jelleyjesse/pretty-clothes)

Misted Yellow (pinterest.com/jelleyjesse/pretty-clothes)

Misted yellow is the best choice to brighten up those winter blues. It’s a rare and elegant color, but bold enough to bring you cheer for the holidays. I hope  these current winter color trends bring cheer and a more unique wardrobe for the cold and dark weather ahead.

Accessory Trends to keep in Mind for Winter

Arm Warmers (colorful-stitches.com)

As winter approaches there are always new things to witness, snowfall, bare trees, and the most noticeable, the steep drop in temperature. That’s when its time to bundle up and sometimes we may feel so bundled that we can barely move. Now, that just sounds miserable! But there some cute accessories to save you and keep you warm this without the hassle.

The first I’ll mention is the arm warmer; knitted finger-less gloves

Elongated Gloves (fashionisers.com)

that go past your wrist and up to your elbow. They aren’t bulky and enable you to move your hands around while keeping not only your hands warm, but also your arms. But if you’re worried about your fingers getting cold on those unbearable, frigid days then the elongated gloves with regular fit on your entire hand are the way to go.

Leg Warmers (etsy.com/listing/170416524/knitted-lace-band-with-bow-leg-warmer)

Some days you might just want to wear leggings and boots. Leggings are the warmest choice for the winter but if you love them,  leg warmers are a great thing to invest in. Some come with lace at the top, bows, solids, and patterns. Just slide them right on before you put on your boots and you are good to go with an extra layer of warmth without having to wear a completely different bottom. Leggings it is!

Now I’ll move on to a must-have item in the winter, the scarf of course. A twist on the classic scarf that we just wrap around our necks is the bow scarf. They add a unique dimension to winter outfits and stand above the rest by giving you a new and exciting look. You can wear them in the front or on the side, either way it will look great.

We’ve got the legs, hands and neck covered, but the ears and

Oversized Slouchy Beanie (etsy.com/listing/108923066/slouchy-beanie-slouch-hats-oversized)

head still need some help! So with that, I have found a hip look to try, the slouchy beanie. It’s easy and adorable while giving you that easygoing experience.  Well, hopefully all of these accessory ideas give you a warm and fuzzy feeling this coming winter.

Tall Boot Trends that will Keep you Warm and In-style

So I’ve already talked about options for ankle boots that are cute and stylish, but we still need options to keep us warm, right? That’s where the knee high boots come in to play! Or should I say, out to play in this lovely fall, almost winter weather!

For starters, there is the wild Wild West boot. A suede, cowboy inspired look that is comfortable with

Suede Cowboy Inspired (http://www.pinterest.com/pin/354447433146276879/)

a bit of a heel. They’re great worn with jeans or a maxi dress. Another great suede style is a simple, classic black boot that can match any colors and dress up your outfit if need be. Black ones with tassels on the zipper add some excitement to the simple black leather boot but isn’t too distracting, the perfect balance!

Lace up boots (www.polyvore.com)

The tall lace up is worn great with your winter shorts or miniskirt! They put a little kick into your step so watch out; you may start to live this fall season on the edge with this chic and sleek look. A chunky, also sleek, cream colored heel is simple and beautiful. It will go great with any pastel colors you have for the season.

A preppy, put-together loafer look combines with a heel and laces as a tall, lustrous boot.  They’re standard enough for a work outfit, but even better for going out with some skinny jeans and a fall jacket to conveniently switch from work to

Two tone boots(plumgirlsadventures.wordpress.com)

play! Two-toned boots are fun too. Why choose between black and grey, or brown when you can just wear both at once. This style really dresses up a simple pair of jeans and a sweater. A pair of blue suede boots is perfect if you want to add a splash of color without going too crazy, such as sparkles or bright pink.

Hopefully these tall boot options work well for you. The best part about them is they keep the cold air from getting to your legs while being versatile and fun!

Fall in Love this Season with these Coat Trends

It’s that time to turn over a new autumn leaf and take advantage of the most fashionable coat styles to help you keep warm and looking trendy all at once. From short to longer and sleeveless styles, the list seems endless. Let’s start this list by talking about the trench coat. Try a khaki or different color other than black for fall. Some have great details such as a striped collar and leather cuffs near your wrist. These add contrast and will make you stand out from the rest with this new twist on the typical trench coat.

So besides the classic parka, usually insulated with goose down or Thinsulate, try one in denim. They’re best worn with sweaters underneath and leggings with boots. Another jacket great with boots, especially leather, is the moto hoodie jacket. The combination of a fleece hoodie with a leather jacket, it  has a leather torso and fleece arms and hood. This jacket brings comfort and edge all at once.

A very unique coat to dress up your outfit is a the lace overcoat. When you want to stay lady like and classy with the comfort of your sweater and jeans, try one of these. They’re a long open jacket, with the look of a dress patterned with lace and insulated inside to keep you warm. Another unqiue yet classic look is the riding coat, you can wear it between seasons and it is waterproof with a great diamond pattern.

A great coat for every body type is the cape. Its sleeveless and flows away from the body, making it  easy to wear. And another easy coat to wear is a wool wrap coat, which looks like a regular length coat with no buttons or zipper and just wraps around you in the front. I hope this inspires you to get out there and fall for a coat that will help you stand out and feel great!

Ankle Length Boots – A Unique Fall Look

 

Ankle Boots (www.elysiancreativestudio.com/tag/fall)

An exciting and easy look this fall is booties, also known as ankle length boots. They are unique compared to the traditional tall boots. So lets dare to be different this season and try them out. Watch out for a variety of colors vastly approaching you in brown, beige, wine, black, grey and many more. Some come in pull on styles,  zip up, flats, heels, and wedges. Others have buckles for show in faux and real leather. You can find them in suede as well which should be protected with weather and water proof spray. Some have fringe and lace and even fur.

With Cuffed Jeans (getyourprettyon.com)

Skinny jeans are one of the best items to pair with your ankle boots.  They can help slim your ankles by rolling them up a little to highlight the skinny area above your feet. Another fun look with these boots is wearing them with your socks sticking out. Yes, it sounds funny but with cute socks that are a thinner material, you can make it look dainty and feminine. Therefore, you should avoid thick pants and jeans so your ankles don’t look bulky. Jeggings and leggings are best with this look. If you have bare legs, try a skirt above the knee to avoid your legs looking short. For color, try shorter, neutral colored socks to avoid drawing attention to them.

Tights and A-line Skirt (thefashionfoot.com)

A-line skirts are great with ankle boots because the fullness of the skirt tends to slim your feet and ankles. Wear a neutral pair of boots with a more fitted skirt to help elongate your legs as darker boots may make your outfit appear bottom heavy. Sometimes your boots might cover your whole ankle. In this case, try tights with the skirt. Wear your black boots with black tights, beige with beige, grey with grey, and the list goes on. However, if you want to wear a different color tight than your boots, this is ok too, it adds variety.

Try out this great style boot and ways to wear it, I’m sure you’ll love them just as much as this great Fall weather!