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Thursday, June 30, 2011

What to Wear for Canada Day

Just because you're excited to show your Canadian pride doesn't have to mean you have to go overboard with the flannel and fur. Focus on one piece to accentuate, like a bright red top or a red floral dress. Then create your outfit around this item. Try not to overdo it! If you're unwilling to stick to these two colors, add neutrals like a light grey or tan instead.  You can even sport only Canadian designers! Check out these two outfits I created and let me know what you think!

For a BBQ...



For the fireworks...

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Intro to Color Blocking

One style I've had a difficult time mustering up the courage to wear is the colorblocking trend. Yes, it's been around for a bit now, but it seems so daring! After giving it some thought, it doesn't seem so intimidating after all. In fact, you probably have something in your closet already that you can use to colorblock! This look that I've picked out is pretty simple: blue skirt with a salmon pink top to start. If you're feeling more daring, opt for fuchsia.


What do you think of this trend? Are you willing to give it a try? Let me know if you do!

Saturday, June 25, 2011

Style Obsession: Printed Shorts

I'm a firm believer that Summer is the best time to start taking some fashion risks. Anyone else feel their most creative and confident when the sun is shining, daylight is longer, and everyone is just a little more relaxed? I sure do. So when I spotted these wild printed shorts worn by Whitney Port, I knew I had to give them a try!

Whitney Port
FabSugar
If you're just trying to ease your way into this trend, then pair your printed shorts with a solid neutral tank and a cropped blazer or cardigan. But if you want to really make an impression, mix and match your prints! I really love the floral and stripes combo below. What do you think of these printed shorts? Would you ever give them a try?

Free People

Forever21

Asos

J.CREW

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

What's Old Is New Again

Last week's trip home to southern California to visit my parents just happened to coincide with their big move from our house of the past 15 years. While cleaning out my room and sorting through old jewelry, I stumbled across some stunning pieces that I had simply forgotten. Some had quite a bit of sentimental value, and some I can't quite remember where or whom they came from. Needless to say, I was so excited with my new findings! I even wore a few of the necklaces during my Palm Springs vacation.




A gift from my grandparents during one of their cross country trips

Have you ever dug up old jewelry or even clothes that you forgot you ever purchased? This is a fun reward when you're cleaning out your closet to donate unwanted items!

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Shopping By Labels

When you think of shopping by labels, you're probably thinking of your favorite designer brands. But in this post, I'm talking about shopping by garment care labels. This never used to be a concern for me, but when I moved out and had to do all your dry-cleaning myself, this became a dreaded task! One piece of advice my mom really instilled in me is to look at the garment care instructions before making a purchase. If the piece of clothing is not very expensive, but the instructions say dry-clean only, then maybe you should reconsider the purchase. Why spend more on dry-cleaning fees than the actual item itself? It doesn't make sense! Make sure if you invest in something, that you won't mind spending some extra money to maintain it.



While shopping for a new pair of dressy trousers, I made sure that even though the shorts were a silk blend, they could be washed at home.


Do you ever shop by labels? Would you reconsider a purchase because of the care instructions?

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Color Coordinating With Swimwear

I don't think I'm the only girl who feels that she needs a different bikini for each day of vacation... right? Though I haven't quite racked up seven new bikinis, I do have a cover-up I've already invested in and know I'll get lots of use out of. So the big question is, do you match your pedicure to your coverup if you know you'll be wearing this color often? I think it's a great idea! Here are two of my favorite shades and a suggestion for a matching cover-up. What do you think of this matching attempt?




   

Nail polish by Essie in Braziliant and Turquoise & Caicos  
Orange Tie Dye Coverup by Topshop
Blue Coverup by Anthropologie

For the Beach or the Pool: 5 Fabulous Totes

I've clearly got summer on my mind! Could you tell? No matter where you're vacationing or spending your weekends, a beachy straw tote is an essential bag to complete your summer wardrobe. I've even found them useful to tote my towel and yoga mat to and from class. Check out a few of these budget-friendly picks and let me know what you think!



Stripe Farmer's Market Tote
J.Crew ($49.50)


Dakar Tote
Mar Y Sol ($98)

Sunday Straw Tote
Juicy Couture ($122)
Roberta Roller Rabbit Beach Bag
Piperlime ($89)
Bamboula Market Tote
Madewell ($58)

Monday, June 6, 2011

Style Obsession: Knotted Blouses

AnnaLynne McCord and Minka Kelly
Glamour

When I first think of a blouse knotted and tied up in front, I conjure up images of Britney Spears in her first hit single. Though it may have helped it her sell millions, it's not quite the image I would promote myself. Luckily, this look can be toned down enough to give off more of a sophisticated, whimsical feel rather than "Hit Me Baby One More Time." That being said, I am completely in love with with this knotted blouse style. Whether you want to pair it with a flowy maxi skirt or white denim skinnies, it's a look that's sure to last this summer!

Shenae Grimes
FabSugar
What do you think of this trend? Will you be sporting a knotted front blouse this summer?

Saturday, June 4, 2011

All White Summer Trend

Blake Lively
fashionfame.com

So many stylists and fashionistas are experimenting with the all white trend that I've decided to give it a try myself! At first, it may seem a bit intimidating. Tide To-Go pen anyone? If you're ready to dip your toe into this hot trend, I suggest starting with a white blazer and white dress. Blake Lively's Dolce & Gabbana ensemble is just to die for. It's simple, yet elegant, and that's the key to pulling off this all white trend. Check out a few of my picks below and let me know what you think!

See by Chloe White Cotton Blazer
Outnet ($148.50)

BCBG White Flutter Sleeve Dress
Lord & Taylor ($108)
White Racer Back Maxi Dress
Topshop ($100)
White Linen Boyfriend Pants
Banana Republic ($79.50)
Straw Crossbody Purse
ASOS ($33.24)

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Style Obsession: Beachy Head Scarves

Nicole Richie
thelovecollage.com

Maybe it's the California girl in me, but I just can't get enough of of this beachy, boho look with messy hair and a head wrap. Of all the styles I've seen, I think Nicole Richie does this best. Don't you agree?

Nicole Richie
thebeautystop.com


This look is meant to be messy and fun, so if you're going to give this a try don't attempt to perfect it too much! I suggest waiting until your hair is a day or two old, or spritz with salt water. This will give it some extra volume and messy waves. Which style do you like best? Would you wear a head scarf?

Blake Lively in Gossip Girl
hairromance.com

thebeautyinsiders.com