Fashion Trends What to Wear…if you dare Spring 2016 edition

from the April 2016 edition of Sassy Magazine

This season there are some definite HOT trends in the fashion world; things I am sure you will want to embrace and bring a slice of into your wardrobes. Many of today’s trends are carryovers from season’s past, and even years past. If you loved the 70’s, you are in luck!  If you prefer a more tailored, polished look, you are also in luck. 

The “balance of power” in fashion has us looming on both ends of the spectrum. The overall theme in trends this season is a feeling of opposites. Romantic frills and silhouette with a 70’s vibe balanced against a harsh and edgy feel inspired by 80’s-90’s street fashion. Here are 3 of the season’s fashion inspirational trends.

3 HOT SPRING TRENDS

Embrace your inner Latin Dancer

Influence from Miami or a Latin feel in fashion is definitely prevalent this season.  As part of this trend we see layered ruffle skirts, off the shoulder and midriff baring tops with puffy sleeves and bold Spanish feeling prints.  Think flamenco skirt with an open midriff.   Specific notions of this trend include:

·   Prints, bold florals

·   Puffy Sleeves, sleeves that ARE the statement in the outfit

·   Slip dresses

·   Layered ruffles

·   Off the shoulder / bare shoulders

·   A-symmetric hemlines

·   Pom-pom trim and colorful embroidery and beading – especially in shoes

Key Piece in this Trend: the slip dress

What to Wear

If you love the idea of this trend, with its bold colors and romantic feel, be sure to pair your favorite pieces with something more structured; specifically the Slip Dress. By nature, this dress is borrowed from lingerie. Today’s slip dress is a bit more structured, but not much. You don’t want to look like you’ve walked out of the house wearing only your undergarments or nightgown, so pair this dress with the proper foundation garments to keep everything “in check”. Balance this sexy look with a structured jacket or sweater, and keep your footwear light and airy, like the dress.

Politics in Our Closets

Fashion trends mimic the state of world politics and the economy. Because this is such a politically charged year, it isn’t really that surprising we are seeing that influence in fashion.  Power suits are back with button front blouses. Stripes that have a nautical feel and finishing touches that reminds us of military hardware. The feel is all-American. Details that fit into the political influence trend include:

·         Suiting pieces – the power suit is back

·         Stripes, bold thicker stripes

·         Boxy Jackets

·         Button front shirts

·         All over denim (all Americana look)

·         Patriotic feel in color combinations (lots of red, white and blue)

·         Chunky, solid heels in footwear

Key Piece in this Trend: bold stripes and boxy jackets

What to Wear

The stripes of today’s trendsetters are bold, thick flag-like stripes. If you are a petite woman, be sure that the thickness of the stripe is in line with your stature. These thick stripes can be easily paired with florals for an up-beat look. Be sure to match intensity and hue of the colors. The boxy jacket when paired over a plunging neckline is a dramatic look that will turn any politico’s head. Be mindful of where the jacket hits on your silhouette so it doesn’t add width to your shape.

It’s the 70’s moving to 90’s…again

For several seasons we have seen the influence of the 70’s in the bohemian trend and fringe. Well, it seems it is here to stay and here in a huge way! The political trend feels very structured and planned, while the 70’s bohemian trend feels the exact opposite – unstructured and easy.  Lightweight, translucent fabrics, fringe and lace are paired with pieces that feel very 90’s with minimalism, a grunge feel and even fanny packs (yes, I said fanny packs). Pieces that play homage to this trend include:

·         Long earrings

·         Wide leg pants

·         Tie die

·         Cold Shoulder tops

·         Shine, shine and more shine – metallic fabrics and details

·         Maxi skirts and dresses

·         Oversized jackets and track suits

·         Strappy shoes, gladiator style sandals

·         Suede, especially in footwear

Key Piece in this Trend: open shoulder top

What to Wear

Cold shoulder or open shoulder tops are very sexy and should probably not be brought into the office. Be sure to wear your shoulder-baring top with the proper undergarments, be sure to check your top from the front, side and back. Try a stick on (strapless) bra with snap closure in the middle, and underwire support.  Many of the trendy open-shoulder tops have a blouson silhouette. Be sure to balance this shape with a slim pant or skirt, or ½ tuck your blouse to change the silhouette (tuck in the front of your shirt, leave the back untucked). Longer necklaces seem to work best with this style top.

A Final Word on This Season’s Trends…

There is so much cross over in trends this season, fashionistas can bring pieces from last spring/summer and easily transition them into this year’s wardrobes seamlessly.  Vintage thrift store finds will fit nicely into current styles, and buying a few key pieces won’t break the bank. When trying out these trends or fully embracing one of them, remember my “style-rule-of-thumb” in determining if a trend is for you; If you put something on and look in the mirror and feel a question coming over your thoughts, the answer is no!  Conversely, if you put something on look in the mirror and instantly smile, stand a little taller and say to yourself “oh yea!”, the answer is yes!

Shop MY closet!

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Goodwill Tips: Goodwill Ambush Makeover - Rachel

 Are you a 30-something Mom that is stuck in a style rut? Know this...it is a VERY typical story! Check out how I helped Rachel break shopping habits in this Goodwill Makeovoer!







Goodwill Tips: Goodwill Ambush Makeover - Rachel: Rachel is a typical 30-something Mom .  She has spent so much time over the past few years being a Mom, she's forgotten what her style...

50 Pieces Your Wardrobe Needs

Over the years, I have helped hundreds of women transform their wardrobes into perfectly functional, fabulous collections of outfit options. There is a common thread to all great wardrobes: a balance between basics and statement pieces.
 
After trying to remember all the things (and reasons why) that make up a great wardrobe, I have compiled a list. This list isn’t intended to be a “run out to the mall now and buy all these things”, but rather it should be viewed as a “work- in-progress checklist”.

PANTS

1. Jeans – something a little sassy, boot cut or flared. I suggest finding something with a bold contrast stitch on the inside of the leg.
2. Dark basic skinny jeans – these are an essential regardless of your age or personal style.  The perfect skinny jean will do double duty as leggings and can be dressed up with a great jacket and heels.
3. Leggings – need I say more?  I honestly think you should have several pairs of basic black leggings in your wardrobe: ankle length thicker fabric, knee length and one with something different (like leather or embellishment).
4. Trouser – call this your basic pant.  Even for those of us who don’t wear pants very often, there is always an occasion we need a good pant that isn’t a jean. I suggest something in black.

TOPS

5. Denim Shirt – the denim shirt has made a strong comeback in fashion, and I am thrilled!  The denim shirt should be a thinner fabric, and a long sleeve you can easily roll up.  The denim shirt can dress down a very dressed up skirt, and is simply something that looks good on everyone.
6. White Blouse – another basic and something I searched a long time for. It is a good idea to have two white blouses: one that is a little longer (tunic length) that you can wear with leggings, and one that is a slimmer fit that would be perfect under a jacket or sweater.
7. White tee – when the white blouse is too much, try the white tee!  Find something that is made of a good fabric (spend a little money on this) that fits you well (i.e. don’t buy it oversized).
8. Embellished Tee – for some this might be a striped tee, for others it might be something with some kind of sparkle on the front. Whatever your style personality, the embellished tee will be a favorite in your closet.
9. Cardigan – what color do you know looks amazing on you?  Blue? Pink? THAT is the color you will need to find in a cardigan. Use as a layering piece to break up monochromatic looks.
10. Tunic – the tunic is something that you might be able to wear with leggings and flats, or with tights and boots. In the summer months, your tunic might be a great bathing suit cover up!
11. Chunky Sweater – Ya know those cold weekends when a warm sweater, boots and skinny jeans are perfect?  THAT is the sweater you need in your closet.
12. Cami – If I am being honest, you probably need several camis.  I wear one just about every day. Wear under those tops with plunging necklines (that might be a bit much for work) and of course, use as a layering piece.

JACKETS

13. Jean jacket – basic, no embellishment, looks chic with a pencil skirt and a crisp white blouse (of course with oodles of jewelry)
14. Basic Jacket – the basic jacket should be in your signature neutral color (brown, black or navy for example), and about hip length.
15. Leather Jacket – the great thing about leather is it has become very affordable. The faux-leather options are plentiful! Find a jacket that has some rugged details, maybe in a motorcycle style.
16. Chanel-esque Jacket – You know the style. This is something you could add in as an afterthought to your wardrobe, or be a key signature piece in your closet. It can be the thing that you wear when you need to look like a million bucks (with a pencil skirt), or be something you wear with jeans when your mood is a little sophisticated sassy.
17. Spa jacket – This is the thing I see missing from most wardrobes.  A sporty jacket that you can wear when everything else seems to be too formal.

DRESSES

18. LBD – or LRD or LBD (you get the picture). A basic no frills dress that looks amazing on you.  Something in a color that is perfect for your skin tone, which is easily dressed up or down.
19. Day Dress – I suggest a wrap dress.  This style looks great on everyone and is very easy to find.
20. “Look At Me” Dress – A party dress (that isn’t black) with some kind of glitz and shine on it. This might be the thing you wear to a cocktail party or holiday party

SKIRTS

21. Pencil Skirt – the workhorse of your wardrobe. I suggest black. If a pencil skirt isn’t a style you are fond of, try an A-Line style
22. Patterned Skirt – maybe a tweed or floral, whatever your style dictates this is a skirt you love to live in.
23. Little Knit Skirt – or 2, or 3!  This is the little black skirt you pull on with a tee and flip flops in the summer, or pair with tights and a sweater in the winter. It is what you want to wear when it is in the laundry.

UNDER THINGS

24. Bra wardrobe – A wise investment is to have a few great fitting bras.  Skip the white ones (really…no need for them). Be sure you have at least 2 nude and 1 black bra.  Convertible straps are a must! 
25. Undies wardrobe – Everyone needs some undies that will eliminate panty lines…need I say more?
26. Compression garment – This is a fancy word for Spanx.

ACCESSORIES 

27. Black skinny belt – Make sure this key piece in your accessory arsenal has a buckle that can be worn over things.
28. Brown braided thick belt – I love wearing my braided belt buckled and looped through (looks like I tied it around my waist).
29. Trendy Sunglasses – In today’s sunglass world, that might be the aviator or the Jackie-O
30. Scarf (or pashmina) – I suggest you have 2 of these in your treasure chest.  One in a pop color, and a basic neutral (like black)
31. Dark opaque tights – They key is opaque, a thick tight that you can’t see your skin through.  I like the Spanx version (serves double duty!)

JEWELRY

32. Statement necklace – Something that is neutral, but ‘wow’ enough that people notice.  Look for something that is a ‘collar’ style
33. Long necklace – I like one that has a few charms.
34. Bangle bracelets – Stack them on your wrist, and your outfit gets at least 5 style points!
35. Everyday pendant necklace – This is the necklace you wear just about every day, that you can layer with other things
36. Right Hand ring – Something big, bold that tells your style story.  It might be a big flower, or a cluster of diamonds.
37. Stud earrings – Diamond, yes I am giving you permission to get a pair of diamond earrings (or glass that just looks like diamond studs). When you have no idea what earrings to wear, pull these out of your jewelry box. Trust me. I wear mine every single day (even to the gym).
38. Hoop earrings – When you want to make your outfit a little more casual, or you feel like your look just need a little something more, in walks the hoop earring.
39. Signet ring – I believe that this classic ‘initial ring’ is something every woman should have…and if you don’t, it would make a great gift. (hint, hint.)

HANDBAGS

40. Basic every day handbag – Something that is big enough that you can shove a bottle of water and a snack inside, but not so big that it could be mistaken for a gym bag.
41. Weekend clutch – This is something you can use with your LBD or jeans, white tee and sassy heels.
42. Power color purse – What is the dominant color in your wardrobe? Red? Blue? This is the color you need in a handbag. When you are in one of those “I am wearing all black” moods, use this to perk up your mood.

SHOES

43. Black pump – basic, timeless.
44. Boot in your signature neutral – Riding boots are something you will wear time and time again.
45. Non-athletic tennis shoe – Ya know those cute little flats that kinda look like tennis shoes but they really are more of a ballet flat? That is what you need.
46. Sassy heel – Something that makes you fees sexy and alive. And, it’s OK if you can only stand for 10 minutes and take 15 steps in them. You should be sitting in these shoes to show them off (wink!).
47. Stiletto with sparkle – I will admit I am a sparkly shoe addict. I have far too many. But I do wear them with everything! Wear with your sassy jeans and a basic tee on the weekend, and of course with your ‘Look At Me’ dress.
48. Neutral wedge – When you don’t know what shoes to wear, go for the neutral wedge!
49. Shoe-Bootie – This shoe is one of the season’s biggest style stories. Wear with everything, yes EVERYTHING (including skirts!)
50. Flip Flop – Make sure your flips are of a grown-up variety, something you can wear all day without worrying about the damage they might cause your feet.

FREE Color Analysis at Judee's Boutique Grand Opening

Please join me at Judee's Boutique's new location in Granger, IN on Thursday, November 12th. They will be celebrating the Grand Opening of this BEAUTIFUL boutique all weekend! 

I'll be there from 10am - 7pm on Thursday offering

FREE personal shopping services and FREE color analysis!

The day will also include a Frank Lyman Trunk Show

Judee's

1205 E. University Drive 

Granger, IN

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The Midi, Plaid and a little Fringe Fashion Trends Holiday 2015

 from the November edition of Sassy Magazine

The holidays are a time when we become one with our inner diva and confidentially wear all the glitz our beings can handle.  This season, evening wear trends take a turn for the different. This might be the year you invest in a few new party pieces in your winter wardrobe. Here are some trend notions to get you started shopping.

 This season, look for a little fringe and feathers.  The feel of these details is instant luxury. A hot look is a-symmetrical fringe.  Dresses with feathers at the hemline, lace dresses finished with long fringe, even car wash fringe is making a big come back. Because these styles are such a statement in and of themselves, go simple on your shoe and accessory choices. With makeup, perhaps a bold lip will be all you need. 

The A-Line dress, which of course is juxtaposed with the pencil dress, are the sought after silhouettes of this holiday season. The A-line dress is one that looks great on everyone. Timeless and elegant. Of course, because fashion is a story of opposites, the other hot silhouette is a pencil dress.  This form fitting dress is most trendy this season when it is longer, a midi length. Know which cut is best for your figure. Try these styles with a peep toe evening shoe bootie! 

Holiday means metallic; this season the hot metallic hue is champagne.  It’s not beige, it’s not pink, and it’s a little goldish with silver. This metallic is great for any skin tone because it encompasses both warm and cool undertones. Other great colors for party attire this season include deep purple and ruby red to marsala. To balance the color is an abundance of black and white styles from high-end fashion houses. Head to toe black and head to toe winter white is what the chicest of fashionistas will wear this season. 

70’s inspiration is seen in fashion this season, evening and party wear is no exception. 70’s vibe color combinations done in sequins ala Dance Fever.  Think disco. Deep necklines, long blouson sleeves and very short hemlines all harken back to when Saturday Night Fever was a way of life. This look should be done with hair and makeup that balances the strong look of this style. Simple hair, beachy waves might be best. With makeup, a soft lip with strong cat-eye may be a great look for you. 

Try plaid with metallic threads. Plaid is everywhere this season, so of course holiday collections will include a little plaid done with metallic threads. The metallic feel will offer a glimpse of formality, while the plaid still carries the weight of something more casual. Plaid might be a great choice for more casual affairs on your calendars; office parties, neighborhood get together, kids holiday programs at school. Plaid can be revved up easily with paired with leather. Try plaid jacket with leather leggings and a peep toe shoe-boot. 

Whatever your social calendar dictates this season, don’t be afraid to infuse a little new-trend into your holiday wardrobe. These styles aren’t going out of style soon, so embrace a “new after-5 you”, and invest in yourself!  And remember my rule of thumb in trying a new style, “If you put it on and wonder if its right, the answer is no. If you put it on and instantly stand up straighter and feel like you have more swing in your hip…then the answer is YES!”

Make 10 pieces of clothing for a 6-day vacation

Let’s pretend you have only a few hours to pack for a 6 day vacation. Could you do it? 

Most of us fall into one of 2 categories when it comes to packing for a trip: we are either a skimpy packer or an over packer. The skimpy packer is someone who is determined to only take a carry on, and finds themselves needing a few more pieces of clothing to get through the trip. Conversely, the over packer will take 10 pairs of shoes for an overnight stay, ya know, just in case.

Smart packing is something that requires practice, a little planning, and letting go of the “what if’s”. First, for a beachy vaca start with the basics:

• Walking shorts
• Leggings 
• Maxi skirt (one that can be worn as a skirt or a dress)
• Long sleeve top (or layering piece) 
• Tank
• Tunic
• Sun dress
• Sweater 
• Shirt skirt 
• Bathing suit 

 
Then add in some shoes: 

• A flat that is comfortable for long days of walking 
• A wedge
• A dressy heel 

 
Finally, a few accessories:

• A tote (shopper) style bag
• A clutch 
• Some sunglasses 
• A belt 
• Cool necklaces and other jewelry pieces

Yes, those 10 pieces of clothing will in fact get you through a travel day to your vacation destination, 6 days of sun and fun, and a travel day home. Here is how it breaks down:

Dear Diary – Travel Day,

I need to wear something in layers for the flight. I am going from subzero temps to sunny 80 degrees.

Comfy USA Black tunic tank top $65

Comfy USA Sheer dot tee $75

Ming Wang sweater jacket $309

Comfy USA leggings $98

Oka B ballet flat $45

Brighton tote bag $315

Brighton hoop earrings $25

Brighton Sunglasses $90

Brighton Statement necklace $128

Dear Diary,

My husband told me on our first day of vacation that we will be doing some sight-seeing and going to a nice dinner. Ugh, what to wear!

Day:

Tricotto lace trip slip dress $79

Artex tunic $66

Brighton Wedge $190

Brighton hoop earrings $25

Brighton Sunglasses $90

Brighton cross body bag $195

Brighton long pendant necklace $68

Saffron and Nutmeg short necklace $40

 Night:

Tricotto lace trip slip dress $79

Brighton hoop earrings $25

Brighton Sunglasses $90

Brighton cross body bag $195

Dyables sandal $68

Red Belt

Brighton Statement Necklace $128

Dear Diary,

Well, it’s a new day of our vacation. I feel like I need a little exercise, and my husband loves ancient ruins.  So as a matter of compromise today we are going hiking. But of course, I plan on looking fashionable! Tonight I think we are going to have a casual dinner. Maybe pizza. 

Day:

Lisette Walking shorts $100

Artex tunic $66

Brighton long pendant necklace $68 

Brighton chain belt $95

Brighton hoop earrings $25

Brighton cross body bag $195

Brighton Wedge $190

Night:

Lisette Walking shorts $100

Karen Kane tunic $108

Oka B ballet flat $45

Long turquoise necklace with earrings $89

Brighton cross body bag $195

Dear Diary,

Vacation is going great.  I am so ready for a day on the beach, and that is what is on the agenda today. We are also going to check out this restaurant that the concierge suggested for dinner. But again, what to wear?

Day:

Bathing Suit

Karen Kane animal dot skirt $88

Brighton hoop earrings $25

Brighton Sunglasses $90

Brighton Wedge $190

Brighton tote bag $315

Brighton long pendant necklace $68

Night:

Karen Kane animal dot skirt $88

Brighton hoop earrings $25

Red Belt

Brighton cross body bag $195

Oka B ballet flat $45

Brighton long pendant necklace $68 

Saffron and Nutmeg short necklace $40

Dear Diary,

Our vacation plans today include a little time at the spa and shopping. Tonight we are going to dinner and dancing with some fun people we met yesterday at the beach. I think I know what I am going to wear!

Day:

Comfy USA leggings $65

Karen Kane tunic $108

Oka B ballet flat $45

Long turquoise necklace with earrings $89

Brighton Sunglasses $90

Brighton tote bag $315

Night:

Comfy USA tunic tank $65

Comfy USA sheet polka dot tee $75

Joseph Ribkoff skirt $116

Dyables sandal $68

Brighton cross body bag $195 

 

Dear Diary,

I don’t think I want to come home.  I have enough clothes for another week! Today I think we are going to charter a boat. Can you imagine?  A full day on a chartered boat!  That will surely relieve all my stress and make me forget about the horrible weather back home. Tonight I think we are going to just stay on the boat for dinner. Someone said something about eating what we catch? 

Day:

Bathing Suit

Joseph Ribkoff skirt $116

Brighton hoop earrings $25

Brighton Sunglasses $90

Brighton Wedge $190

Brighton tote bag $315

Saffron and Nutmeg short necklace $40 

 

Dear Diary,

We have a few hours to kill before we need to catch a cab for the flight home.  I plan on sipping on some fruity drinks with umbrellas in them by the pool.

Bathing Suit

Lisette Walking Shorts $100

Oka B ballet flat $45

Brighton cross body bag $195

Brighton hoop earrings $25

Brighton Sunglasses $90

 

Dear Diary,

It’s time to head back to reality, and catch the plane ride home. It’s been a great vacation and I am so pleased I planned wisely. I have plenty of room in my suitcase for all the treasures I purchased while on vacation.  No “extra baggage” charges for me!

Tricotto slip dress $79

Ming Wang sweater jacket $309

Oka B ballet flat $45

Brighton tote bag $315

Brighton long pendant necklace $68

clothing credit: Judee’s Boutique