Spring/Summer Bags

The flowers are blooming, April showers are bringing May flowers, the birds are buzzing, and I am itching for a new bag. Usually around this time I find a bag that has caught my eye, but this year nothing seems to be fitting. I usually go for a cute, bright, colorful canvas bag but since I am getting older and I need the bag to reflect my changing style. I went to all my bag spots, but still found nothing or something way to expensive that I could not afford. Today I was browsing/taking pics for the paper at this really cute boutique gift shop called Eclections. She has such an amazing selection of different purse. at really not bad prices. She was telling me about the new prices out this season for my article and this large, bright bag caught my eye. It's a green, brown, and gold metallic bag with a nylon inside. I loved that the inside could take some wear and tear and the outside was so cool and had this embossed snake look that I continued to carry it around the store with me while taking pics for the paper and finally asked her to put it on hold for me.

If a canvas bag is too plain for you, and the bright bags are well too bright than go for the metallic bag. It really adds a different look to the traidtional spring bags of canvas and straw. It's a really hot material/color that really standout in the spring and summer.

Travel Fashion

Traveling can be a stressfull ordeal. The possible delays and the stress of missing your plane. The amount of junk food that stares you down. The evil security lines and your limited liquids in that annoying plasitc bag. Laguardia Airport.

To make the trip a tad bit easier you want to dress and pack your carry ons as efficienly as possible. There are so many stylish and also ridicoulsy dressed woman at the airport. I litterally want to scream at the woman wearing 4 inch heels! I did see a few girls in the airport who just looked so effortly gorgeous as I stared them down with envy I planned my next travel outfit. Forget the jeans I am wearing a dress. Your jeans tend to stretch through out the day making you feel fat and semi ugly and well when you are meeting a gorgeous guy at the airport theese are the last two feelings you want.

A jersey dress is the perfect answer. It has enough stretch and room to make it casual, but with an added sex appeal. Add some leggings to avoid mishaps, a jean jacket, a pair of cute flats, and a spring scarf you will be the envy of those patiently waiting for their plane.

Carrying my bags last time was a hassle because like the overpacker I am I had 3 bags. This time even though my travel time is shorter I am sticking to two bags; my purse and faux longchamp bag.

Travel is just another reason to buy a new outfit and use the bags you buy just because even though you have like 20 at home already.

Cute Carry Ons

Last October I faced a dilemma. I was traveling to Florida for the weekend, but could not check my bags. This falls under the category of dilemma because I am a chronic over packer. I literally pack for every scenario possible.
I was forced to go on the hunt for a cute, carry on, that was large enough to fit all my stuff. Many of the bags I found were either too expensive or too small. Than I was reminded of the ever glorious Amazon. You can literally find anything on that website. I typed in weekender and found a wonderful company called Olive n Figs. Its made of an extremely durable fabric that can with stand the bumps and throws of travel and even better 5% of the proceeds go to Street to School" Project. This projects helps with students education in Calcutta India. Seriously this durable, large bag that supports a worthy cause cost me only $30!

Project Runway

Now if you love all things fashion than you must worship Project Runway. The cat fights, the insane challenges, the talent, the ridiculous vote offs, and of course Heidi. Half the reason I tune in is to just see what she wears. I must say that despite the harsh rumors flying around the internet saying that nobody showed up at season 4 auditions, and that there was no talent this batch of designers were honestly the best by far!!! They were a fun loving, diverse group of designers who made us laugh and caused our jaws to drop at the stupendous outfits they created. My favorite by far was Jillian Lewis. Her style alone was so innovative that you knew her clothes were going to be even more spectacular. If i was a millionaire I would seriously commission her to create beautiful clothes for me.

Even though Jillian did not win and "fierce" Christian did she is still a winner in my book.

On a side note did you notice Jaslene from ANTM was on that runway and they say these former ANTMers don't work.

Makeup

Makeup. A girls best friend. A chance to express your daily mood or artistic genius. Sephora is our Heaven.

There is absolutely no reason to be scared of makeup. It enhances our best features and hides our worst. Experimentation is key. Spend some quality face time in the mirror. My first foray into makeup started with my moms 80's wild makeup and from trial and error and the willingness to go out of my color box I fell in love with all things makeup.

The key to quality makeup is moisture and exfoliation. The easiest way to ruin your makeup is dry skin.

Next step is to understand your color palette. (Take notice of your eye and hair color here). Woman with blue eyes should stick to the warm tones of navy, smoky gray, chocolate, apricot, and copper. The colder tones can at times be to harsh for your hair, eye, skin, color combination.
Green eyes stick from the color range between mauve and plum. Red-based hues will add some spark to your eyes. Grey eyes are one of the easier to work worth; because of their neutral color you can trick your eyes to appear different colors. Gray's and coppers will create a blue eyed beauty affect. Lavender and aquamarine will give you a green eyed goddess look. Brown and Hazel eyes have the ability to experiment with just about any colors, but warm tones such as plum, purple, and green-bronze color will bring out your inner fierceness. Black eyes again has the ability to experiment, but stay away from pearly, light colors. Dark blue, gray, brown, and nude tones will give you even more mystery.

Lips. I know we are not all blessed with Angelina Jolie lips, but thankfully we have the knowledge to fake it.
Two great beauty tricks I know have to do with lips. One; do your lips before you start your makeup. This will give you a finished look and help you not to go overboard on your makeup. Two; put on lip balm before you apply your lipstick or gloss. The balm will help you apply your gloss or stick easier and helps it stay a bit better. Gloss is my number one choice by far. I have a very large makeup bag that is full of all the glosses of the rainbow. Lipstick; to me, can seem to formal. A bit of gloss adds shine and a bit of freshness to your whole look.
Luckily lip plumper's are no longer limited to expensive products found in specialty stores. Go to the drug store today and just about every brand now has there own lip plumper.

Makeup is just another reason to enjoy being a girl. So remember less is always more, step outside your color box, experiment, experiment, experiment, and the cheap places are the best places to find color trend of the moment.

Prints and Patterns

As I lazily gaze out my window I see snow continuously piling up and as I stare at my closet a long teal, yellow, and blue print dress that I purchased at the beginning of the winter for three dollars is calling my name.
As I flip through my fashion magazines I notice a new trend; long, print, dresses. My anticipation to float through a summer day in the dress increases.
Many of us at the moment are feeling the pull to summer. The winter blues are taking over and spring and summer seem to be nowhere insight.
A trend this season again is bright bold exotic prints and patterns. This trend can be found in bags dresses, and spring scarves.
The dresses these upcoming seasons are flowy and long. The beauty of a long dress is the ability to alter it. If you love the pattern, but do not want to be taken over by it you can hem it to about mid calve or to your knees. The excess fabric could be used for a headscarf or printed bag.
Another place to find the bright bold trend is in the spring scarf. Long, light, fabric that can be twisted around your neck is what you are looking for. If you cannot find the pattern you desire or the price you desire try going to a fabric store. They carry all the current patterns and colors and you can make your own one of a kind spring scarf.
Chunky accessories are what we need to pair with our flowy dresses. Large wooden bangles, wooden rings, chunky bright colored necklaces, and chunky metallic platforms are what are hot. If platforms are not your style try a metallic sandal. Grecian inspired wrap sandals are what are hot this season.
An over sized woven clutch or woven shoulder bag will neutralize the outfit and also bring in the safari trend.

Rainboots

Rain boots to many are a thing of the past. We all had them as little kids. We remember jumping around in big puddles of mud with our red, yellow, or green rain boots with funny faces on them. Rain boots no longer just for kids and fisherman.
Rain boots are a great alternative to our winter boots. Unlike our winter the slush and the salt will not stain our boots.
Rain boots come in many different shapes and styles. Target came out with a wedge rain boot this season. Rain boots with umbrellas, whales, skulls, monkeys, polka dots, swirls, and flowers.
They come in so many bright and wonderful colorful patterns you will not want to hide them under your pants. I suggest a skinny jean since rain boots are not as pliable as our winter boots and therefore harder to tuck jeans into.
The price of rain boots range from about $50-$15.

Let us no longer fear the puddles, slush, and mud. We should embrace our childhood and gleefully jump in puddles with our new rain boots.

Fashion Essentials

Fashion can be challenging for some. The best way to create your true fashionista self is to start with the basics. The basics are what your wardrobe is built around. The basics are constants in the fashion world; something that never goes out of style. These basics were worn by your grandmothers and mother and will be worn by you and future generations.

An essential for any classic woman is a; crisp, white, shirt. Audrey had one, Marilyn wore one, and you should have one. Go for a fitted fit to keep it stylish, but not bulky.
Another essential is a great pair of fitting jeans. The jeans that no matter what will fit you and you will look good in. The best jeans are transitional. They can be dressed up with a pair of heals and hot top, or paired with a crisp shirt, blazer, and flats and worn casually at work.
The Little Black Dress; enough said.

A large handbag is another essential. The large bag for the day that carries all your lives essentials than some. There are so many totes, shoulder bags, and hobos out there that an ugly bag is no excuse. Another essential is an evening bag is both black and brown. Its a drag to carry a large bag to dinner or out to the club. A cute little shoulder bag is perfect for the club and a gorgeous clutch is great for dinners or drinks out.
A dress coat is a dark color is a must. Like the little black dress it’s another go to piece. This coat can be worn for holidays, events, and to work.
Knee high boots in both brown and black are another must. These boots can be worn out on the town, or worn with a skirt or dress to add that chic touch. Especially in the winter they provide more coverage compared to a pair heels.
A light cardigan is another fashion staple. Whether this sweater is button down or has a hood and a zipper it is a must all the same. It can be worn over a dress or paired with a t shirt.
Flats are another fashion must. They are dressier than flip flops and flats and add spice to your daily jeans.
A long sleeved tee both with a graphic print and plain tee is another fashion must. It is the winter alternative to the t shirt.
Finally my last fashion essential is jewelry. A pair of diamond studs and a silver bracelet is two classics.
So whether you are just forming your fashion wardrobe, adding to your already expansive collection, or are starting over from scratch this list should get you started onto the right path.

Fashion Statement

With an ever changing world and politics and current events hitting closer to home fashion has become our soap box to express our opinions.

Urban Outfitters is the front runner in political expression. Your love for a democrat or republican can be expressed in “I Only Date Democrats”, or “I Only Date Republicans.” The other two party sides tees are; “Republicans know how to Party” and Democrats know how to Party.”
The love of your favorite candidate is expressed through such tees; “Obama for your Mama” or “Hillary is my Homegirl.” Oddly enough there are no mamas for Romney or McCain is my homeboy t shirts; coincidence you decide.
Urban Outfitters also carries a range of t shirts promoting peace. “Make Art not War”, “anything War can do Peace can do better,” War what is it Good For”, and “Screw the War Lets Dance.” Other shirts that promote the use of marijuana and vegetarianism are also available.
Though these shirts range from the mid to high twenty dollars their political statement and vintage value are well worth the price.

Any of these tees plus many more can be found at urbanoutfitters.com in the womans tee section or at Urban Outfitters

Fashion Do's and Don'ts

We have all seen blatantly obvious fashion don’ts on the street, in the halls, or at the mall. The ladies with the ridiculous mullets, the lady who wore every shade of purple in her closet, and the woman who decided to wear boots made of yeti fur.
A key tip to avoiding fashion catastrophe is to dress for your shape and size. Know your shape whether you are pear-shaped, curvy, boy shaped, petite, or busty. Figuring out your size will help you from either busting out of your clothes or drowning in them.
Something we all want to avoid in life is the muffin top; it’s almost as worst V.P.L. Avoiding the muffin top can be difficult considering the downhill evolution of our once favorite jeans. Some designers have decided that woman no longer have hips, butts, or thighs causing the trend of the super low rise jeans with no stretch. The stretch in the jeans is a savior to many. Go for the jean that sits on the hip or a little above the hip and that has some stretch in it; it will save you the hassle and embarrassment of having to deal with the unfortunate muffin top.
While on the subject of jeans please remember that if your jeans are ripped and expose half your thigh it is best to keep them at home. A distressed pair of jeans with a tiny rip or fray is fine but if half your leg or backside is exposed than its best to leave them at home.
Color is key in fashion, but overloading on color is another fashion don’t. When working with color never overload on that color. Just because every piece you are wearing is purple does not mean it matches. Colors have many shades, undertones, and warmth’s to it. Focus on a key color preferably one that compliments your skin tone, hair, and eye color. Pick a color and match it with neutrals to make it stand out. Accessories are a great way to add colors into your outfit you would normally shy away from like a scarf, handbag, or coat.
Designer handbags are a wonderful fashion statement, but not all of us can afford them. When buying a knock off the key to making it look authentic is to keep to the original concept and design of the creator. Try not to go outside the box with colors. When buying a Chanel stick to black and white lets. Remember just because it has a designer label on it does not make it fashionable; head to toe label is a fashion don't.

Flats

The new trend in flats this season is an elastic flat that you can bend and mold. This elasticized flat makes it more comfortable to walk in because there is virtually no breaking in period; a heaven scent addictive to any girl with a shoe addiction. These flats are incredibly comfy with their rubber sole bottoms. This style can be found virtually anywhere for any price range. Target has a variety in many style, colors, and accents for between $12 and $24; and from there the price goes up. Company's all over are embracing this comfort chic trend which I am sure our feet will thank us for.

Ok Boys this One is for You

Ok boys this one is for you. Many of you are clueless about what to wear some of you got it right most of you don’t and the rest of you just need a bit of tweaking.

You just need a few key pieces.

Key piece one a pair of jeans that fit you not the ones that sag below the waist line and god forbid are too short. The right pair of jeans makes all the difference in the world. A right pair of jeans will accent all the positives and hide all the negatives.

Okay forget the sweatshirt. What you need is a good track jacket. One made out of sweatshirt material not the shiny windbreaker material. A perfect alternative to a coat and a stylish alternative to a sweatshirt sweatshirts are not bad, but a track jacket just mixes it up.

Colors; dark blues, dark greens, neutral palate.

T shirts are great do not get me wrong I love t shirts I own many there are some pretty cool t shirts for guys out there buy the cool ones leave the rude gross ones for bed or time with the guys. Henley’s are great. You can layer them put a simple neutral t shirt underneath it add a track jacket with your kick ass pair of jeans and cool tennis shoes you are ready to go and impress.

Now shoes there are so many different cool tennis shoes out there if you don’t like oxfords. Puma does great fashionable casual tennis shoes for guys. Pumas are a tad bit expensive but lucky for you and me cheaper companies such as target make the same exact shoe but for a cheaper price the only thing you are missing is the little puma.

Colors are good, but stick to the colors of the season browns reds greens and crèmes

Belts are the forgotten accessories for most guys. Throw out the cloth belts that cannot seem to stay in that belt look and invest in a brown belt. Really it will pull the outfit together.

Fashion Week Spring 2008

Fashion Week Spring 2008 is upon us again. At this week long event stylists, fashionistas, and stars alike come out to see what the designers vision is of what we will soon be seeing in the pages of magazines and buying up at our local department stores.

Pops of color seem to be key this Spring 2008. Cantaloupe; a softer version of the color orange can be picked up on any clearance rack and put away for next spring.

An intense lavender color also knows as Spring Crocus is a very flattering color for those with darker skin and brown eyes.

Daiquiri Green the less intense version of neon green could brighten up any dull outfit.

Silver a great accent piece and a wonderful alternative to white or black could be used subtly in handbags or as a great going out top.

Gwen Stefani’s line L.A.M.B is well known in and out of the fashion world. Gwen’s spring 2008 line showed that her pieces would not only work well on the skinny model type, but the everyday woman who would like something new and different in her wardrobe. Plaid pieces were paired with dark blue pieces and Kelly green sweaters were paired with gray skirts. The line had a sophisticated 50’s London Mod feel to it.

Diesel is an edgy brand with a rock n’ roll rebel vibe to it Diesel has an amazing men’s line that allows them to stay in fashion while still keeping their manhood intact. The trend on Spring 2008’s runway in men’s fashion was white; white shirts, white shorts, white pants with tiny pops of green, and yellow. This collection had a nice airy light feel to it.

Though the goal of these designers is to tell us what is in and what is out it is up to us to decide what looks good on us and run with it because fashion isn’t fashion unless you put your own creative touch to it.

Winter Outerwear

 Baby it’s cold outside; so just a zip up hoodie will no longer suffice as your outerwear. There are so many
amazing coats and accessories that will keep your warm and cozy through Michigan’s chilly, breezy, snowy
days.
 Peacoats are a great stylish alternative; for both guys and girls, to the everyday ski coat. They come in
a variety of colors, lengths, and designs.  This season’s in peacoat is a military stylized version.
The military uniformed inspired coats can be found in the large brass, bold, buttons and the high-collars.
An excellent place to find unique outerwear is at your local thrift shop or Salvation Army. You can find some
amazing vintage coats on the cheap. If you find jackets to be too bulky a vest is a perfect alternative and can be found in any price
range.
 Lady’s another trend in coats this year is fur and wearing a coat with a fur trim on the hood is a really
easy way to ease into the trend.
 Guys if you find the peacoat to be too dressy or not in your style range layering is your best option to
keeping warm but still looking good these cold months. A fleece coat is a great option. It can be found in
any price range and are well built to keep you insulated and warm. Another different, but cool option
is to wear a zip up hoodie under a more structured jacket like a nice worn in leather jacket.
 Cold weather accessories; now guys for you it is all about the beanie. Not only does it keep your head
insulated but it looks really good and adds that extra bit of style to your everyday look. Ladies for you it
is all about the scarf. They are a perfect way to add pop of color to your outfit if you want to stay
neutral with the color choice of your coat. 

Fashion Books

Being a devotee of the fashion world I have my top books of reference and joy that revolve around beauty and fashion. I have been looking forever for a really good makeup book with quality pictures, tips, and tricks. (Color pictures are key when you are looking for a beauty book on makeup and hair).
Marie Claire Makeup is a gorgeous color photo 190 page book chocked full of information. They cover skin, nails, and the best eyeshadow colors that best compliment your eye color. The step by step tips from top professionals in the makeup and fashion industry is gold. My favorite part of the book is the full color photos of the best makeup to wear for spring, summer, winter, and fall.
My second book is; Free Gift with Purchase; my improbable career in Magazines and Makeup by Jean Godfrey-June. Jean is the beauty editor of Lucky Magazine.This biography has the best inside tips and suggestions on how best to get into witting for beauty magazines. Inserted throughout the book are tips and tricks on beauty and fashion. Its a very intriguing biography and a must for anyone wanting to get into the fashion industry.
My third book is for anyone who just plain loves fashion. Little Pink Raincoat by Gigi Anders is book after all our fashion and beauty obsessed hearts. Each chapter chronicles one piece of makeup or article of clothing that revolves around a relationship or situation. Gigi's candid take on life, love, and fashion is hilarious and extremely relateable.
My fourth book of reference is Fashion Now. It's a 600 page full color book that contains the worlds most 150 important designers. The more you know about fashion, its designers, and their history the informed you will be when witting about fashion and shopping for fashion. The fashion photography is breathtaking. The designers pour their creative heart and soul to the public giving you greater appreciation heightening your love, passion, and obsession for fashion.
My fifth and final book is a piece of literary decadence. The Goddess Guide by Gisele Scanlon is my fashion treasure. The cover is covered soft subtle velvet in the forms of birds, teapots, and giraffes. Gisele is a girl who knows her stuff. The beginning of the book introduces the six different goddess. Your goddess will help you pick your perfect bag, top, and shoe. The key to finding the best vintage, the best travel tips, gardening, food, and your home, and just plain fun. We all want to be goddess and Gisele gives a way to achieve our Goddess Status.
This is my list, my bibles of fashion I turn too. There are many more out there but these are my tops. And always remember all these books can be found at your local bookstore.

New Year New Bag New You

A new year is upon us and what better way to add a bit of spice to your style, but with a new handbag.

Handbags are one of the few items that we justify spending money on. They are the one accessory that creates a statement about our mood, and style.

When it comes to bags size does matter. Leave the small shoulder bags and clutches for parties and Saturday night at the bar. Choose a large enough bag that will fit the essentials plus some. A black or brown bag with bold hardware will carry you through the seasons.

A handbag is a excellent way to add a bit of spice and color without worrying about going overboard. Bright, bold colors, metallic, braided handles, and bows are what are hot this season.

If a designer handbag is out of your financial reach, but you still dream of a Balenciaga, Marc Jacobs, or Chloe handbag retail stores such as Forever 21 and Target are your best bets to find on spot the look alike for $30 and under.

Handbags are one of the perks about being a girl. So let your bag express who you are or who you want to be.