5 Reasons to Look Forward to Spring and Summer

Spring/summer has never looked more appealing to me than it did during this past winter that I spent with Jack Frost. Thankfully, we broke up, and it's time for me to revamp my relationship with sunshine, sandals, and the occasional road trip. Outside of the 70s flares, boho chic, and the ballerina skirts, there has been a lot to catch my eye, fashion wise, this season. 

REBECCA MINKOFF PURSES.

Rebecca Minkoff is a new addition to my designers-I-love list--especially with the line of handbags (and shoes) that she put out for this spring. Each bag is so unique, detailed, and versatile. A full collection of Minkoff's designs (bags, shoes, accessories, etc) can be found on her website: http://rebeccaminkoff.com.

ORANGE LIPS.

Orange Lips. I cannot get enough of orange lips. Whenever I am looking to pump up an outfit I generally reach for a red or a pink, but these past few weeks it has been all about the orange. My current favorites are by MAC: Vegas Volt (a peachy orange)  and So Chaud (a vibrant red orange). Revlon also has some really great orange colors (available in lipstick and lip gloss) that I have seen. 

Can't figure out how to rock the orange? Simple. Go easy on the eyes (try a subtle winged out eyeliner look, a couple of coats of mascara, and a highlight on the brow), a natural (but noticeable) cheek and highlight, and a flawless face (your favorite foundation, or tinted moisturizer will work perfectly). To top it off: the orange lipstick of your choice. Don't be shy--the brighter the better. But remember to be aware of your undertones.

SCARVES AND HATS FOR SPRING.

Generally, I'd be excited to pass the torch from winter trends to spring trends, but this year the tables seem to have turned. Scarves and hates are definitely something I'm looking forward to, but not the typical ones. I'll be wearing my hats floppy and my scarves tied pin-up style around my head. Two words: effortlessly chic.

FRINGED T-SHIRTS.

Completely stoked to fringe some of my vintage t-shirts. It takes them from typical to edgy, and adds a little more fun to that effortless t-shirt and jean shorts look we all rock (at least sometimes) in the summer. There are no rules to fringing t-shirts, except that hoochie is not cute. Experiment with the hem and sleeves of your shirt, and don't be afraid to use more than just scissors to make your tops look even more badass (beads, studs, braids, etc). Pair your tee with a pair of broken in/ripped jean shorts, a pair of doc martin style boots, and a pair of aviators (maybe a headscarf and an orange lip too). Work it.

Until next time,

Lo

Currently Listening to: Neon Trees - Habits

Suit up.

On days like today I can hardly keep my thoughts drifting into that summer frame of mind. So much to look forward to. Sandals, shorts, and most importantly...swimsuits. I've been on a pretty serious hunt for a striking one, but haven't found THE one yet.


That's the thing about swimsuit shopping though--it's definitely one of the more frustrating shopping endevers of the year. You never know exactly what kind of punch winter packed to that once flat stomach and those used-to-be-flawless legs. That is...until you try on that vintage hot pink one piece with all of the rouching up the front.


Not only do you have to find one that suits you and your features, but also one that suits your body type. Here's a few tips to make that a little easier:


HOUR GLASS FIGURE- Go for swimsuits that flaunt what you got, sister. If you're hourglass, chances are you can't go wrong with a bikini or two piece, and one pieces with cut outs will flatter you as well. If you're busty, try the swimsuits with underwire (experiment with different amounts of support).


BOYISH FIGURE- Big benefit of having a boyish figure? The ability to wear (most) bandeau tops. Bandeau tops, especially with detailing like ruffles/rouching/etc give the allusion of a bigger chest (of course a push up type swimsuit is always helpful, as well). Try swimsuits that accentuate your favorite parts of your figure. For example: I am a huge fan of my waist and my collarbones/shoulders, so I think i may try one of those retro, high waisted, two piece pin up girl-esque swimsuits. I'm actually not sure who that style WOULDN'T flatter.


CURVY FIGURE- I'm going to completely reiterate the pin-up girl style swimsuit here, however, if you are insecure about your midsection then I would suggest going for the one piece version. Totally just as cute, but you feel more comfortable. Skirted one pieces can definitely be flattering (if they are not tacky skirts, e.g. kmart style) and so can halter two pieces that have a wider style of cup. (Excessive side boob is never cute)










A little insecure about being in your suit pool side, or while walking down the beach? Easy. Cover ups have recently taken a turn for the better and can accentuate your swimsuit, as well as your body. Thin fabric is the way to go. Maxi dresses work well, too.

As far as your hunt for the perfect swimsuit goes: I wish you good luck, and I send you off with some hopefully helpful information. Namely: where I've seen the cutest ones so far this season.

From L to R: (row 1) Victoria's Secret, Modcloth, (row 2) Betsey Johnson, and Anthropologie. I would even try etsy if you're feeling spunky! There are some very talented swimwear designers (and otherwise) who are in the beginning stages of making their grand debut.

I hope this was helpful!
Questions? comment below.


until next time
Lo




Currently Listening to: Mumford and Sons - Sigh No More

It's Aldo Rage!

So, since about January I've been receiving the spring issues of the magazines that I subscribe to. This is exciting for two reasons. Reason #1: I love getting mail. I am a mail monster. If there is an envelope with my name on it in our mail box, then chances are I don't even make it back into the apartment without carefully tearing (with the caution of a 3 year old opening a Christmas package) the envelope open. Reason #2: I love a good fashion magazine. 


Amidst the spreads about color blocking, 70's chic, and bold lips, though, something other things began to catch my eye. These things were spring ad campaigns, and this year they do not disappoint. A good ad campaign is so important because it's all about catching the magazine reader's eye and directing them to the creative vision of your store/product. If the ad is memorable, chances are they'll remember to pay a visit to your store in pursuit of the cute pair of wedges you had so expertly styled or the dress that made the model look flawless. If your store gives off the same attractive vibes as your ads then chances are you, my friend, can ad one more name to that frequent shoppers list.


I love ads that are spunky, well styled, and fun. On the other hand, I also love ads that are artistic, unexpected, and intriguing. I also love an ad with a good pun, but who doesn't, really?


Recently I've been obsessed with one ad campaign in particular, and that is the ALDO spring campaign. Primary colors and an abundance of vintage styled hair, makeup, and clothes make for fun and eye catching 2 page spreads. See for yourself:

ALDO's spring campaign was very successful in my opinion. I have a had a craving to go there ever since their ads graced the pages of my February issue of NYLON. I look forward to the day I rip them out and stick them on my every growing wall of fashion.

until next time

Lo

now listening to: Local Natives-Gorilla Manor (or my favorite cd in the world)

SINCEREST APOLOGIES

School is trying to swallow me whole right now.

I don't believe I have had a second to breathe, balance my check book, or blog in (nearly) the past month.

Lots of exciting posts and pictures coming soon!...

Just as soon as I find the time.



I promise I will return with a vengeance!