Is camouflage the new "it" print? 

Similar to other prints like leopard and polka-dots, camo never seems to go out of style. This Fall, a surprising number of designers opted for the print and put their own signature spin on it and I've seen a lot camouflage popping up in "street-style". Personally, I think it has a lot to do with the "neo-grunge" trend that's taking over but whatever the cause may be... I LOVE IT!  

I love that color is following us into the colder months... It's such a nice change from the blacks and grays that usually walk the Fall runways. This season, designers gathered inspiration from their jewelry boxes and the evidence is in the rich and luxe color pallets that were chosen. This Fall/Winter, I'm seeing a lot of emphasis on wealthy dressing, or as I like to call it "Old Money" fashion. You don't have to be rich to stay on trend, but dressing the part, is the name of the game... and like my momma says, "You gotta fake it, til' you make it"!

So what are jewel tones? Jewel tones, or gem tones as I like to refer to them as... are your emeralds, sapphires, ruby and amethyst shades. With such strong colors, it’s best to opt for clean lines and cut, because the texture will speak for itself. If you're not comfortable wearing gem tones head to toe, try breaking them up by showing a little skin (a bare shoulder), wearing a bit of black (a blazer), or you could always opt for a pop of color and accessorize with the rich tones. 

School is back in session and I'm taking Fall fashion lessons from the "IT"  girls of high school (wait, what... high school fashion ... no way) and by "IT" girls, I mean the ladies of Clueless and Gossip Girl! This Fall is all about channeling your inner preppy school girl and mixing it with a bit of "Old Money" and a splash of British glamour. So ladies, drag out your hounds-tooth, plaid skirts, pearls, and tweed...  and getchur class on. 

Outside influence always finds its way into fashion and the “new bohemian” has found inspiration in gypsy culture. Similar to that of hippie and festival fashion, the gypsy style is made up of silhouette hugging dresses, peasant tops, folkloric embroideries, and print mixing. The contemporary spin on the age old way of dressing is full of layering jewelry and prints, adding chains, coins, flounces, fringe, and beaded details. Jump on the gypsy caravan by playing with colors, mixing prints, and over accessorizing with arms full of bracelets, layering necklaces, and adorning your head with scarves, turbans, headwraps, and headchains. 

I still adore my polka-dots and paisley prints but I always love trying new trends and this print has be spotted everywhere. The chevron print is super fun and comes in a wide variety of colors and sizes! It's always best to ease into prints by starting with accessories! 

I'm currently obsessing over Gabi Fresh. Seriously, If my wallet were full, and I could afford all of the beautiful things she owns, we would have identical closets! Gabi is a plus size, style icon, who pushes all of the boundaries and she certainly knows how to dress her body! If you're sick of being told to wear A-line skirts, wrap dresses, boot cut jeans, and slimming prints... this blog is for YOU! You gotta check her out! 

There are a few helpful tips that a lady should know when it comes to dressing for her body type. It's important that you learn how to flatter your figure and embrace your curves in order to look great and feel great in what ever you're wearing!

Flatter your Figure

Just because it fits doesn’t necessarily mean it’s flattering on you. Now  is the time to really examine your body and decide what you physically like most about yourself. Once you know which feature you like best, wear things that draw attention to that attribute... you will feel great and that confidence will exude! 

Stay true to YOU, only buy stuff that fits you now.

I know we're so easily tempted to buy and even keep something that doesn’t fit, just because we like it. You don't want to invest money in new things that don't fit. The end. 


Create Curves

If you want to draw attention to your upper body, I would suggest choosing something with an empire waist (have the waist centered right below your bust). If you want to direct the waistline lower, I would wear something that has an elastic waist; by doing so, you can place the waist of the clothing item, at the smallest part of your waist. I like to look for skirts, tops, and dresses that have elastic bands because of their "flexibility" when it comes to being able to place it in a flattering area. Another option for creating curves is to use belts...you can wear one at the smallest part of your waist to give you that hourglass shape. I would also try wearing a vest, cardigan or fitted blazer to add curves..as long as your cinching your waist at the smallest part of your mid-section you will be adding shape to your body instantly.  

Elongate your Legs

In order to elongate your legs, try wearing heels that expose your ankles; exposing your ankles adds a couple of extra inches to your legs instead of cutting them short.  You can also add length to your legs by wearing nude heels and by dressing in solid, monotone colors.

Steep Necklines

Having a low neckline will lengthen your upper body, making you look longer and more proportioned. This trick is great for women who have a bigger bust because as we know, wearing a steep neckline is great for showing off your best assets but PLEASE don't forget, modesty is key in anything you wear! 

Color + Confidence
While black is always a flattering color to wear, it will not always make you look slimmer. More important than color, is the material, weight, and cut. The fabric and fitting have to be flattering on you. Dressing in all black is fine every once in awhile but try to just use the color to add slimming elements to your outfits.
 
The most important thing you have to remember to put on before leaving the house is your confidence. If you put something on, and triple guess yourself (it's always good to second guess, reconsider..double check accessories, etc.) change... just forget about it and put on something that makes you feel confident!