Shop With Style

It’s easy to get into a rut with wearing jewelry. Day in, day out, it’s sometimes just easier to keep the same pieces on…or off… whichever the case may be. Either way, your style can begin to suffer, and you can quickly get bored with accessorizing. That’s the last thing we want to happen! You’ve got so much fabulousness inside you ready to come out…and these suggestions will help to get your creative ideas flowing again!

• Geometric – Geometric shapes are huge right now, and there are lots of options out there. Triangles, pyramids, even a chunky plain band can look modern and geometrical. You can also arrange the rings by thinking geometrically, by keeping the larger rings to your pointer, thumb, and pinky finger, while wearing thinner rings on your middle and ring fingers. Think symmetry and balance.
• Colored stones – Not necessarily working off of colors in your outfit (although that would look fierce too) another fresh way to wear rings is to pile on the color. Think gemstones, pearls, even turquoise (which is another massive trend right now). Different sizes and shapes and hues of the same color. Talk about a statement!
• One color metal – This is one of the fastest and easiest ways to make an impact with your accessories…but we’re not talking just one or two rings. No way! For this trick to wow you’ve got to wear multiple pieces, varying sizes and shapes, but all one color metal. Yellow gold, rose gold, copper, silver…your choice. And if you want to double up on the stylishness, pair yellow and rose gold or copper with clothes in warm, Fall hues (brown, rust, tan)…and pair cooler colored clothes (black, grey, white) with silver, gunmetal, or black tungsten or titanium.
• Mixed metal – In a similar idea as the above, this look involves mixing rings of varying shapes and sizes in differing finishes… shiny and brushed, silver, yellow and rose gold hues. Make sure you incorporate both thick and thin rings so that the difference in texture and finish can really stand out!
• Mad for midis – Yes, another definite trend are midi rings. Most midis are quite thin, but there are so many shapes and sizes, some open, some connected to another ring worn further up the finger. Layer them together, wear them on every finger, or every other finger. The more you wear, the bigger the statement.
• Stacked – Another one of the most flattering and fashionable ways to accessorize with rings is to stack them. You can even mix bold and modern with delicate and feminine designs. Also, wearing multiples of thin rings stacked together is a fab way to layer interest into your look without it being overpowering.

What is it about Winter weather that makes us just want to get out and enjoy nature? Sure, in the Summer, you can get out and enjoy nature just the same, but as the temperatures rise, you can only remove so many articles of clothing before….well…you get arrested. But in the Winter, you can bundle up and really make the most of the world around you! No matter what you fancy… hiking, camping, or even just enjoying a festive campfire with friends…we’ve got the gear you’re going to need to keep warm and keep going!

• Base layers – Why are base layers so important? Why can’t you just throw on a thick jacket and be done with it? Well, not only do base layers make it easier for you to adjust your body temp as you go, but they can keep you warm without letting you get overheated when enjoying activities outdoors. True base layers (long-sleeved tops and bottoms with fitted ankles) are worn close to the skin and are form-fitting (but not overly tight), made from polyester, wool, synthetics, or a combination of all three, but not Cotton will retain moisture and but will not retain much-needed heat.
• Insulating layers – Worn over base layers, insulating layers should still be made of the same materials – wool, polyester, and synthetics – but are a bit thicker (not so thick you can’t comfortably move though). In more moderate climates, you might be able to skip insulating layers and simply double-up on base layers. This layer will be the one that you layer on and off as your temperature, and that of the outdoors, fluctuates. That means your insulating layer is best comprised of pieces with zippers and/or buttons (like these) for ease of use.
• Weatherproof layers – Your outermost layers will be windproof, waterproof, and breathable. On top, that means you’re looking for a good hard-shell jacket, with plenty of zippers for extra ventilation. Regular jeans or pants will work over your base layer, but in colder climates, you should add a pair of weatherproof or weather-resistant pants. Not only will they keep your pants and under-layer dry, but they help to cut the chill of the wind.
• Hats/gloves –In cold weather, your body first loses heat through your extremities. That means hats and gloves are definitely in order! Again, try to look for fabrics like wool, polyester, or synthetics, since they will hold the heat better than cotton. Hats and gloves should fit snugly …and fleece-lining never hurts. And, in this day and age, look for gloves with smart touch fingertips, so you won’t have to constantly be taking them on and off to use your phone.
• Boots/shoes – Footwear should be waterproof, with thick soles, and have a fit with a bit of room. The extra room not only helps with accommodating the thicker socks (hopefully wool) you’ll be wearing, but it will allow for warm air to circulate and keep those toes warm.

Finally, add a hard-shell, insulated or lined jacket, one designed to take the elements, and you’re set. If you layer-up properly, and choose the right fabrics and fits, your Winter time wanderings are sure to be toasty, warm, and wonderful!

Even if you are lucky enough to be one of the 9% of women with an hourglass figure, there’s a chance you don’t realize just how lucky you are. In fact, thanks to the mainstream media images of models in fashion magazines, you might even feel…dare we say…fat…by comparison? If so, that’s an image you need to do away with, because, believe it or not, yours is the figure that’s widely accepted as the “feminine ideal”! And we just so happen to have some tips for fabulously dressing that hourglass!

What identifies an hourglass figure?  The hourglass figure is both round and curvy, but with a smaller, well-defined waistline. The hourglass figure also generally has fuller hips, a larger bust, and generous thighs. As the name implies, the measurements of the bust and the hips are about the same (resembling the curves of an hourglass).

What to avoid:

• Shirts/dresses that are much too big, thinking that more fabric will camouflage your hips and/or bust. It won’t…it will only make you look bigger and sloppier.
• Stiff and/or bulky fabrics
• Elaborate embellishments
• Large, padded/over-accentuated shoulders
• High necklines, turtlenecks

Tops: Tops can be tricky, since you likely have a larger bust. Your best tops are those that are v-necks or scoop-necks… but you don’t want to let them plunge too deep, as that will look downright vulgar on your curves. Also look for wrap tops, belted tops (make sure the belts are thin), and tops with peplum waists.  It may be difficult to fit your shape right off the rack, so pay for a good tailor (it’s so worth it!). And though they may be tempting in Fall and Winter, try to avoid high necklines and turtlenecks, as they will only make your generous breasts appear even more generous (not in a good way)!

Jackets: As with tops, fit is sooo important here. Jackets need to be tailored, and nip in at the waist. Just about any length will work well for you, just as long as it fits at the waist. If it doesn’t, be sure to use a belt to add definition. In terms of dress jackets, two-button fitted jackets are key. Also, single-breasted jackets are far more flattering than double-breasted; single-breasted jackets offer less bulky fabric.

Bottoms: Since your waist is much smaller than your hips, fit is crucial in both jeans and trousers. Bottoms with a bit of stretch in them will help to hug your curves. Opt for boot cut, flares, and wide-legs in darker colors to keep your hips in check with the rest of you. Wide-leg trousers in drapey fabrics are super flattering!

Dresses/Skirts: A-line and wrap dresses are your best friends, and always a good call! Skater, circle, and A-line skirts will also endlessly flatter…just as long as they fit your waist. But your best game can be found with the classic pencil skirt. They provide cover, but still highlight your ultra-feminine curves and small waist!