The Kimono, a Japanese-inspired piece, is taking off with excitement and variety this spring season. It has originally, for many, many years been a silk, wide sleeved robe wrapped with a belt. Right now, the look is found in many different clothing stores made of less expensive and easy to care for fabrics such as sateen, polyester, cotton, and rayon. They consist of tassel trims, loose, large sleeves, and ethnic and bright colored patterns for casual, work, and evening.

Not only do they come in a variety of colors and patterns but also many different lengths. Wear a cardigan style kimono to compliment just your top underneath, with a summer dress, or a longer one for your entire outfit! Long kimonos are great with shorts and a short dress to turn it into a daytime friendly piece. Even pair long ones with a long maxi dress for a boho chic look.

For work wear, spice up your skinny black trouser pants and white blouse with a printed kimono blazer. On the other side of the spectrum, a night out on the town, slip into a sheer kimono top over a little black dress. Or even better, a kimono dress with a belt at the waist, paired with wedges. Comfortable and beautiful, what a great combination!

Kimonos are also great as a bathing suit cover up if you get chilly on the shore during the day or during summer night winds. Something similar to a bathing suit top, a bra-let, shows a lot of skin, but becomes nicely balanced when paired with a kimono. So does the crop top and high-waisted bottoms look that you see in the picture to the right.

Picture 1: Source –  etsy.com/listing/112225696/vintage-kimono-robe-japanese-authentic

Picture 2: Source – aliexpress.com/store/product/Chemise-Femme-2015-Spring-Blusas-Shirt-Women-Tops-Tassel-Blouse-Floral-Print-Tassel-Kimono-Cardigan-Batwing/213992_2017693218.html

Picture 3: Source – blackmilkclothing.com

Picture 4: Source – gurl.com/2014/05/31/style-tips-how-to-wear-kimono-jackets-cardigans-sweaters-outfit-ideas

Now that we are finally out of the cold of winter, warm colors are here to give us flare as we can now contently walk along the sunshine. Finally get close to nature with the all natural color, Toasted Almond. This color brings us balance by acting as middleman to the many warm colors of Spring/Summer. That brings me to my next flattering and bubbly shade, Strawberry Ice. It brings radiance within a healthy pink glow to you and your outfits.

Tangerine, a color that will make you happy from head to toe, offers a stimulating aura and sharp edge, yet carries a balance of being subtle enough with it’s friendliness. This easily attractive color is great for adding life to patterns and accessories.

A lovely yellow, Custard, brings to us relaxation and comfort. It is soft and mellow, and goes into the spring season naturally as sweet and delectable. Seemingly the opposite to Custard is Marsala, a red-brown shade, which goes great with Classic Blue, shows confidence and gives a bold statement that it is here and it is here to stay, at least for this season!

While Marsala is extremely bold, Sandstone has a real down to earth effect by bringing us to nature and simplicity. Their opposition to each other actually makes them a great pair, as one color compliments the other perfectly!

Picture 1. Toasted Almond – skirttherulesblog.com/2015/01/30/pantone-spring-colors

Picture 2. Strawberry Ice – pixshark.com/wedding-colors-for-spring-2015.htm

Picture 3. All Colors – chic-steals.com/2015/01/pantone-color-fashion-report-spring-2015-its-marsala-baby.html

Calm, cool, and delicate, warm tones describe the color trends this spring 2015 season, as mother nature brings so much beauty and a sense of relaxation. A relaxing and airy theme that Aquamarine Blue carries, washes away those winter blues and reinvents a new you; away from cold and into the sunshine. 

An invigorating and powerful Scuba Blue that brings along the fun, resembles the clear waters of Hawaii. This cool shade brings you to paradise or at least makes you feel as though you are there, if you have been dreaming of Spring to finally be here.

With the new, warm whether and being out and about, we need have trust in our new Spring outfits to keep us looking the way we want. Those outfits would be great with Classic Blue, as it certainly is  a common shade in the warm seasons. You will feel comfortable with your beautiful self in this classic, go-to color.

Though Lucite Green is not exactly blue, it is in fact in the Blue Family. This light weight color and minty glow has been around for a while and is ready to hit the runway and your closet again this year.

Dusk Blue is a faithful hue that truly resembles the sky above us. In a crazy world, this color brings us a chance to go back to a place where we never knew crazy even existed. Just breath, Spring is finally here, and the sun is shining from the Dusk Blue sky. Be faithful to the blues and bring them into your outfits with joy and readiness to mix them with other Spring colors that I am going to mention in my next blog. Stay cool and calm until then, my fellow fashion ladies!

1. First Picture:pixersize.com/blog/en/20518/spring-interiors-guide-to-the-pantone-colour-palette

2. Second Picture: bellesperdiem.com/beauty/decorate-your-life-with-pantones-colors-for-2015

3. Third Picture: styleinspirationanddesign.com/2014/03/inspirationseafoam-green-sky-blue-real-wedding-lisa-sammons-events

Spring is thankfully just around the corner so it’s time to put away those heavy, snowed on jackets and go for something lighter. This year designers present an unlimited collection of patterns, silhouettes, and colors.

Believe it or not, female figures are perfectly emphasized by man’s clothes The first style to mention is a Men’s Type coat, which brings convenience and diversity with colors such as blue, gray, and dark chocolate. Skin and fur are the main material for this unique trend, making you feel nice and comfy, with your own Men’s Coat, and not your hubby’s!

Anyone would look great in retro 60’s Style with an A-Silhouette and short length. Colors include brights and pastels. These styles are exciting but what about something easy? The “easy coat” which will replace cardigans and jackets, they are made from wonderful fabrics and have amazing patterns. They are close to the body but a belt will help you create a beautiful silhouette!

The Cape style is in this Spring season with traditional colors and a shorter length. Some even offer different cuts to put your hands in, how fun! Whats even more fun is the fact that the snow is slowly going away, but that doesn’t mean you won’t see anymore white around! Give a white coat with pastels a shot. Try one with a pastel belt or shirt underneath.

 1st Picture: Polyvore.com

2nd Picture: Aliexpress.com

3rd Picture: Uniquewomenfashion.com

Going out for a night on the town with the girls for your birthday? Here are a few birthday outfit ideas to help you stand out in style and be comfortable at the same time. That way, you’re free to move and dance as much as you want!

How about a  dress with mesh? Its a sexy yet sophisticated look with birthday charm, making you stand out with the little bit of skin peaking through. Accessorize the look with a chunky, shorter necklace, black strapped heels, and a fancy clutch to carry your essentials in.

The picture to the right shows a wine-red colored mesh dress with a chunky gold neck that goes absolutely perfect with it. Be sure to color coordinate. For instance, avoid putting black and browns, silver and gold together.

Another idea would be to wear a tank with a skirt and belt, to give a full dress look although you’d be wearing to separate items. Try a pair of heels that have the color of the dress and tank to really pull the outfit together. Accessorize with a bracelet and earrings.

A longer, spandex skirt and dressy cropped top, similar idea to the last outfit, is a comfortable yet stylish outfit that allows you to move through out the night. The great thing about this outfit is after you wear it you can use both items for many other outfits, such as trying a new top with the skirt or wearing the top with denim for a casual daytime outfit.

How about trying some lace? Its absolutely beautiful and a dress with lace is perfect for you dress up for your special night, especially black lace with silver jewelry.

Picture1: pinterest.com/pin/453808099926173319

Picture 2: pinterest.com/pin/AUNzyvncxloMq2Hz3EUg1bzB0KWy08QEMkmYdbN3QvLCNuprRt2Eq4I/

Picture 3: dhgate.com/free-shipping/long-sleeve-crop-top-free-shipping.html

Picture 4: weddingpartyapp.com/blog/2013/04/23/20-lbd-looks-perfect-for-your-bachelorette-party-style-fashion-lbd-bride-bridesmaid-dress/

It has been known that being a new mother is exhausting, and the easiest thing to do is put yourself last. There is no time to even think of what you’re going to wear, leading to a “style rut.” Self esteem to look and feel good during the transition of becoming a mother is very important. Here are some tips keep yourself looking and feelings great at this time in your life.

The first thing to mention is avoid wearing maternity clothing at least 3 months after giving birth. While they may be your go to clothes at the moment because you rely on their comfort and accessibility, soon they’ll start to look and feel saggy, putting a damper on your once stylish wardrobe. By this time it’s time to buy some new clothes in your new size, if needed. Look for tops that don’t bunch to avoid adding fullness in your midsection.

Wear clothes such as wrap tops and dresses as they bring you cute, quick outfits when you’re on the go. Try jackets that button in the middle to show off your waist. You can find great comfort in a pair of high waisted cigarette pant or skinny jeans tucked into boots. This takes away any thickness at your waist, as you’ll draw attention to your legs and feet. Your tummy will be comfortable too, tucked and locked right into your pants. If you feel a little apprehensive about getting into the regular outfits again, you can always try shape-wear as it smoothes out your body and makes you appear 10 lbs lighter, allowing to wear the clothes that you want and put those maternity clothes away.

Don’t forget your shoes! And don’t get stuck in wearing sneakers for a fast slip on shoe either. Ballet flats, slipper-shoes, and flat boots are the best options for you as they look fantastic, and feel good. And what are you bringing with you for a diaper bag? Instead of the frumpy diaper bag, try a patent leather backpack or tote, with the diapers and wipes in a plastic zip-lock bag. It will look like a fashion-forward purse and you’ll not only feel back to your old, hip self, but you might just be the coolest mom around!

Although it may not seem like it, Spring weather is just around the corner. So are some fantastic new trends to look forward to. Let’s have a little sneak peak at what to expect when these winter blues go away and we can finally wear some warm colors.

The first trend to mention is the super soft, easy to love, suede. Get ready to find it in jackets, separates, and dresses, in taupe, lavender, and even bright purples and oranges. Stripes will be a big trend to look out for too. Vertical  stripes, to be exact, a little different from the traditional way we usual wear them which makes this look more interesting.

Something that’s not so surprising, the mesh trend, will be returning this Spring. It was around last Spring and Summer too, there’s just something about this easygoing fabric that’s hard to resist. Maybe the fact that it can be sophisticated and fun at the same time. Speaking of fun, get this, the buckle free belt will be in style–and that’s exactly what you’ll feel like, free, free of the hassle of belt buckles. Put it around anything from your suit jackets, vests, and of course any style pants.

Leather, silk, and feather-like tassels have hit the runway to

bring fringe into our wardrobe. Easy to handle, but hard to decide which one to wear! Another dazzling, dangling item is the long, thin scarf in many different patterns.

Sources:

Picture # 1: arizonafoothillsmagazine.com

Picture # 2: luckyshops.com/article/spring-2015-fashion-trends

Picture # 3: cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/fashion/advice/g3856/spring-fashion-essentials

Picture # 4:  sydnestyle.com/2012/09/spring-2013-new-york-fashion-week-trends-fringe

Date night is so much fun, but even more fun when we feel good with our chic and stylish outfits on! Here are some date night outfit ideas that will help you make your night one of a kind, no matter where you and your guy are going.

Well, if you don’t exactly know where he’s taking you, someplace casual or someplace totally romantic, here is the perfect outfit idea that’ll help you be ready for either one. Wear pastels, to be romantic, yet subtle. Try a semi-dressy pastel top with a pastel skirt. Be sure to add some jewelry to personalize your look. And voila, you’re ready for anything!

Not only do you want to be ready for anything, but feeling confident is just as important. If your night is not so much a mystery, wear a brightly colored piece to show off your vibrance and that flare you’re feeling inside. You’re probably super excited for date night, so show him that with a splash of color. A bright pink skirt, a bright green shirt, or even bright accessories will do the trick.

Speaking of accessories, if you are going on a first date get rid of those awkward silences by wearing conversation-starting-pieces. It could be anything, a bracelet, scarf, headband, ring, anything that’s special to you and that you have history with. Maybe your scarf was handmade in Italy by your grandmother, or your ring is your mom’s from when she was your age. Things like that will surely spark up  conversation and give you reasons to love your outfit even more!

Sources:

Picture #1: Pastel Ideas, doisongphapluat.com/thoi-trang/pastel-diu-nhe-cho-nang-nu-tinh-a32851.html

Picture #2: Brights Ideas, wickedpeacock.com/blogs/wicked-peacock/10461817-color-confidental-we-luv-yellow

In cooler weather, some may think pink will stand out too much against the season’s more neutral colors. But when worn the right way and in the right shade, you’ll never have to worry about that. If you are one to wear it all year round, keep reading for the hottest pink outfit ideas this cold winter season.

If you want to wear pink but don’t want to go all out, just wear it as an accent color. For example, a pink tee or tank is great under a cardigan with other neutral colors throughout the outfit to tone it down. It’s also a good idea to wear light pinks with dark pinks so you don’t appear washed out. Try a lighter sweater with a pair of brighter pink pants to balance the colors.

You may have the personality or just feel bold enough to wear bright pink alone, so why not do it with some leather to give it a little edge? A bright pink top with some leather pants or a skirt is very ideal for winter. Add a leather purse and ankle boots in the mix. If you are wearing no pink but want to add some, use accessories to bring in the pink. You may be surprised at how many scarves, gloves, hats, and sunglasses are around this winter, you just have to shop around and be daring.  One way to go about this is with a pink bag, patterned knit dress, and knee high boots.

When it comes to social gatherings, wearing a hot pink cocktail dress may be the way to go to stand out among the usual shades of winter. For a more casual look in dresses, wear a pink sweater dress under a neutral trench to add the element of surprise.  You’ll be surprised at how much fun all of these pink ideas really are this winter season.

Scarves are so easy to love with their versatility from the patterns to the outfits they get paired with. One great scarf trend to wear this winter season is polka dots, especially in red and black. There are some polka dot scarves that come with stripes on them as well. Or wear just stripes and leave the polka dots behind! Stripes are personally my favorite because they’re simple and chic all at once.  Wear a red and white polka scarf with a bright red top, for a classy combination.

Are you a country girl or just a lover of the plaid pattern? Well you’re in luck; it’s the next on my list. Wear one with a long denim button down top, leggings and your cowgirl boots—how adorable!

For complete warmth, the knit scarf is number one way to go. This trend with buttons is great worn with turtle necks, tees, and sweaters. Find them with acrylic yarn for something less itchy and soft to the touch.

If you want something dressier yet still warm, try a lace scarf. You can wear them after winter is over too as a lariat, neck wrap, or shawl necklace.  Give this style a shot in mint green, it will make you stand out and looks amazing in the Spring and Summer.

The next pattern trend, the most appealing and attracting one, floral, comes in endless colors and patterns. Big or small, floral prints are beautiful to wear with any outfit. Carry it into the spring with you to wear with dresses and wear now with button down sweaters and a long necklace.

Who could forget about animal prints? This trend is ongoing and so much fun. Wear it during the day to keep warm and into the night for a trendy, mischievous look.