Repeat after Me…ORANGE | The many ways to wear Orange this season

by: Ashley Stewart

As Spring unfolds, orange reveals itself as the hottest spring color, in ohhhh so many ways. From blood orange jeans made by J Brand, to the washed orange t-shirt from ASOS, different variations of orange are sprouting up everywhere.  Sephora recently announced their Color of the Year, and to no one’s surprise, the most sought after color this season, Tangerine Tango.

With the exception of last year, orange has not been hot since the 90’s, and even then, it looked awful (well everything looked awful in the 90’s).  So when it became the new color, it begs to ask the question, why?  The answer is simple.  Orange is just fun.  Not too much, not too little; and the most popular reason: everyone is tired of red as the, dare to be bold color.  

An extra plus, it looks great on every skin tone and can be paired to match just about any color; just find the perfect variation of orange that suits you.  One will notice that a majority of the orange clothing on boutique shelves are not created with a drastic, dramatic, life-changing effect in mind; rather a classic jean with an orange dye, or a deep-orange blouse that accents the tan glow, we all love in the summer.  Simple designs are what designate orange as the right color for the season.

When it comes to makeup, go orange or go home.  That doesn’t mean step out of the house with orange eyeshadow, orange blush, and orange lipstain.  Pick one and ride it out.  

Less is more, and you don’t want to look like you have waited your whole life for orange to become popular, just subtly wear it and it will make a BIG statement.  

If you’re wearing a lipstain but don’t want it to be as orange, try a nude lip liner as a base…not only will it tone down the boldness, it will give it more of a matte look which is totally hot this season.

Exactly how do you wear this hot new color without looking like an orange popsicle?  A great look is the full-on monotonous outfit but if you do this, hold off on applying any orange makeup.  If you don’t quite have the edge, or you’re simply not in the mood to turn heads with a bright, bold ensemble, then I suggest a neutral-colored outfit, paired with orange heels and tangerine lipstain.  Not only will you feel comfortable, you will look HOT.  So, before hitting the beach this summer, or an after work Happy Hour, remember to give yourself a quick, at-home makeover, with Orange!

What’s Metallic, Pastel and Floral all over? You! | BEST Summer Accessories

by Ashley Stewart

The best summer accessories have shown themselves, and they are looking good!  From the many varieties and types to choose from, you will have no trouble staying in-trend this season.  With so many summer-ins, I have narrowed down my top ten faves that will have you moving from side to side in style.

Try Tribal-esque – Going native is never a bad thing, and this summer is no different.  Get down to the basics with classic tribal designs that display earthy tones and bold colors.  These designs look best on necklaces and headbands – even belts and purses!

So sleek with White Leather – Leather is the way to go when looking for accessories such as shoes and clutches.  White leather is in and when I say in, I mean IN!  So ditch the fur shearlings and black leather bombers and update your wardrobe with white leather that is sleek for summer.

Turn me on, Turban – When you think of turbans this summer, think of bright, floral patterns that are looser on your head but still tight around your hairline.  There are great designers springing up very fashion forward hair turbans, so turn up the heat and try one for yourself!  This is definitely one of my favorite looks this summer.

Going out to sea, or at least looking like it – Bring the beach to the sidewalk this summer with fancy, sea-inspired designs.  Looking like a mermaid never looked so good and you can catch this look by choosing accessories such as sea-shell earrings, starfish bangles and deep blue, fish necklaces.

Hold up, you may need your 3D glasses – Turn on the illusions with 3D designs that will have all eyes popping.  Dress up your floral print dress or blouse with a dramatic, 3D flower necklace that is as overstated as the Kardashian brand.  Try a 3D hairband on a lazy hair day and you will get an “A” for Amazing!

Matte-tastic! – Satin matte is what you need this summer, whether it is in the form of cute blazer or an edgy clutch for evening.  You can find metallic accessories just about anywhere this summer, so make sure you have all the essentials: cuffs, earrings, necklaces, belts!

Dramatic Paisley – This summer is all about drama, and the drama

doesn’t stop with paisley prints!  Instead of the small, organized prints designers created last summer – this season, the top-notch fashion players brought out the paisley print, but in a looser, more dramatic pattern.  Check out all of the new designs displayed on dangling earrings, shoes and cuffs.

Go, Go, Gadget Go! – Bring out the robot in you with geometric shapes that are both flattering and at the top of the summer list.  From triangles, to octagons, you can find just about any accessory that will give you that robot-feel; just remember geometric accessories look so good in neons and brights!

You’re such a Softy, Pastel – Bring in the pinks, the purples, and the blues…pastel version, of course.  Every accessory looks good in pastel and this summer is no different.  Not only does pastel serve up something fresh for the season, it also makes you look classy and put-together, without even trying.  So get soft and get it together with pastel clutches, headbands, shoes and belts!

Take care of Mother Earth – This season you can save the earth while saving your dress code.  Turn the style up with organic cuffs and bangles made from recycled materials.  Not only do you get the earthy look, you get the reputation as a “green machine.”

http://hot-new-fashion-trends.blogspot.com/2012/03/spring-summer-accessories-2012.html

http://www.elle.com/Accessories/Accessories-Spotlight/Editors-Picks-Accessories-of-the-Day2#mode=base;slide=5;

http://www.elle.com/Accessories/Accessories-Spotlight/Haute-Decor#mode=base;slide=0;

Look Your Best, You Beauty | Swimsuit looks that will keep you HOT

by: Ashley Stewart

Strut your stuff this summer with a swimsuit that not only makes you look hot, but feel hot as well!  From string bikinis to cutout one-pieces, this summer is sure to add beauty to all body shapes and sizes.  I searched hundreds of sites and used my own personal fashion-eye, to find the best looking swimsuits for your body type.  Look below to see where your body fits!

Are you pear-shaped?Look for a great one-piece that has a v-neck to take distraction off of your bottom half and make your figure come alive.

 Any suit with stripes, polka dots and patterns looks great, as do the one-shoulder suits that reveal elegance and a little skin.  Avoid boy shorts as they add a box-shape and cause an illusion of a bigger bottom half.








Do you want to enhance your chest?

Bring out the bold colors, ruffles and frills!  Anything embellished on top or full of fluff is great for the women who want a little more action on their upper half.  Try string bikinis, bandeau tops and cutout one-pieces to bring it all together…up there.



Got junk in the trunk?
We all would love to have a booty like Kim K., but for those who want to hide it just a tad, go for a suit with a plunging neckline to add emphasis to your friends upstairs.  If you want to stay away from the one-pieces this summer, go with a fold-over style bottom with adjustable side strings.  This takes away from the attention of your booty and still has that sex appeal we all crave.  A handy tip is to try a suit with rings on the sides instead of strings.  This is a great look and also prevents your bottoms from slipping up and showing more of your bottom.  A suit with a skirt bottom or a strapless one-piece and full bottom coverage is great as well.  My recommendation, try them all and select which style works for you!



Got a pin-up body with a lot of curves?
One-pieces and tankinis will be your best friend this summer and will not only mask what you don’t want revealed, but your curves will be accentuated marvelously.  Stick with bright solids and not too many patterns or stripes.  Bold colors are all the rage this season so get your favorite color and feel great at that upcoming pool party.  I love the classy look of tankinis and skirts because they hide the problem areas but make the legs and arms look great.  Whatever your choice, choose a suit that hugs your body and even go for rouching on the sides which will accent those curves in the best way!




Are you Miss Ab-less?

No worries this summer!  Go with a suit that has a high-cut leg which will take the distraction off of your tummy and put the attraction into those long legs of yours!  One-piece, solid color suits are great looks along with tankinis, which hide those “love handles” that we hate.  If you are going for the one piece, opt for a sexy number with a plunging neckline, belts, or ruffles – or all of those!  Loose, draping necks look great and give some attention to the girls upstairs.  Another way to hide that belly is to camouflage; try color blocking with black and white and you will notice a dramatic change!

Are DD – elicious?

Having big tatas is what every girl wants, but if you are over your natural bust of beauty than don’t hide your friends, support them!  Try a v-neck suit that shows cleavage (not too much), and elongates your figure.  Halter top suits are great because they add support and if you can find one with thick straps, even better!  For extra support, find a suit with an underwire that will give you an energetic, perky look.
For whatever your body type, this summer is bringing you beach-sexy looks without all of the baggage.  If you’re shopping in-store, bring a friend who will tell you how they really feel and spend time picking out that perfect suit!

http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/beauty/fashion/swimwear/best-swimsuits-for-pear-shapes/?page=3
http://www.cosmopolitan.com/hairstyles-beauty/tiptool/swimwear-for-body-shape#/category1

Top Ten Ways to say Thank You this Father’s Day | Bestest Gifts for Pops

by: Ashley Stewart

Being called Daddy’s Little Girl after the age of twelve is pretty creepy, so this Father’s Day, be your father’s favorite daughter, and get him what he really wants.  From grills, to sporting tickets, to bling, this list will give you the insider look at what Dad wants.  Like they say, money can’t buy happiness – or can it?

First things first, before dropping cash on a present for Pops, answer this question – what kind of guy is he? – nerdy book geek, sporty jock has-been, outdoor type, cultural philanthropist, busy corporate tech guy.  If he’s none of these, then make up your own definition of him and get to thinking.  Hopefully, this list will help!

Live in a cool place? – Get dad something that he will            wear, like a NY Yankees hat or Knicks sweatshirt.  Nothing says I love you like some hospitality.  If you are really missing dad, then splurge for a plane ticket…that way, he HAS to visit your one-room, walk-up studio!

Obsessed with Dexter or Californication? – If your dad has his show, then surprise him this holiday with a DVD gift-set; or if he has a tablet like an iPad or Kindle, an iTunes gift card is practically the same thing!  He’ll be streaming in no time!

Remembering the good ol’ times – Create a gift that your dad will love for years to come.  Everyone loves personalized gifts (that includes men), so start digging (not too deep), for those pictures and keepsakes that will make your dad tear up once he sees his old-but-new treasure.

Guys night out – If your dad has any friends (don’t jinx it), then treating him to dinner and drinks with his buddies is a perfect gift.  You can even go a bit further and make a reservation at a restaurant/pub that has his favorite team playing, so he can catch all the action with his friends.  And hey, if he doesn’t have enough of his own friends, then get creative and invite yours!

Go, Go Gadget, Go! – With all of the electronics surfacing every three minutes, you can be sure your dad is lacking in the tech department.  Help him out by scoring an iPad, Kindle, or new cell phone (throw that flip phone out!).  Not only will he look cooler, he will not have to carry around an actual book again.  CAUTION: with a new phone purchase, he may call more.

Finger Lickin’ Good – If your dad can throw down when it comes to summer bbq’s, then why not get him something that he will be sure to use?  Look for items that you know he needs to replace such as grilling tools, charcoal and even a humorous guy-apron.  Not only will he be happy at his new additions, you will benefit too!

Book Worm? – There’s nothing like a good book to reel you in and take you to another place, so why not share that gift with the man of the house?  Look for bestsellers and those that you think your dad would enjoy.  Still clueless?  Ask his significant other for ideas or rummage through his book case for evidence to see what he’s in to (don’t dig too deep).

Tell Him what Time it is – Every guy on this earth (okay, ninety-percent), wears a watch.  To have dad get that warm and fuzzy – yet cool and in-style feeling, gift him with a watch.

Ticket-up! – Have a dad who is totally obsessed with his alma mater and their sport’s team?  For those whose dads can’t get enough of March Madness or NBA Playoffs, surprise him with tickets to see his favorite team play.  If your dad is more into music than sports, find out where his old school favorite band is playing and buy him a couple of tickets.  Maybe you will be his plus one!

Surprise! – Nothing is better to a dad than some QT and what better way to give it to him than with all of his closest family and friends.  Plan a bbq or a potluck and invite everyone over.  Have hamburgers and beer on hand and dad will be sure to remember how much time and love you put in to surprising him with his own party.

Tips!

None of these options sound like your dad?  Try thinking of what he really likes to do (fishing, hiking, traveling to wineries, etc.) and go off that.  Not all dads like the same things, so think outside of the box if your dad is hard to pinpoint.

Still can’t figure it out and want to get him something you know he will love?  No one has ever denied a massage, and a free one at that.  Treat dad to a spa day where he can enjoy relaxing with an aromatherapy massage and facial.  The spa is not just for us women!

Revamp Your Closet! | DIY on turning your jeans into some stressed out shorts!

by: Ashley Stewart

When you go to sleep you dream.  When you dream, you dream about finding the perfect pair of high-waisted, distressed shorts.   When you wake up, you realize it was just a dream and start to cry.  When you cry, you call your parents.  When you call your parents, you end up telling them all of your secrets.  When you end up telling them all of your secrets, they make you move in with them.  When you move back in with them, your life as you know it, is over.  Don’t let this snowballing effect happen to you!  Search your closet, find a pair of high-waisted jeans (or hit a local thrift store for “mom” jeans), and follow this DIY.  This will guide you step-by-step through the jean-to-short world and will take you about 30 minutes to conquer.

Supplies

Pair of soon-to-be shorts

Scissors

Razor (retractable blade)

Chalk or fabric marker (optional)

Directions

1. Fold jeans in half so one leg is on top of the other
2. Measure, mark and cut (make sure to always cut below the inseam so you don’t make a skirt!)
3. Take scissors and open widely.  Without actually cutting the shorts, you will place the shorts between the scissors and go from one side to the other with the long edge of the scissors.  This should create frayed edges.  You will need to do this step for a while.
4. Once you are done fraying the bottoms of the shorts, you will put down the scissors and grab the razor.
5. There is a grain in which the denim goes.  Find the direction in which the grain is going and scrape (not cut) in a diagonal direction to it.  This will turn those dark blue spots to white and is prepping for the next step, holes!
6. Keep razor in hand and make holes while cutting horizontally with half pressure where you have scraped.  This will take a while and you should stop once you get your desired look.  Don’t worry if it doesn’t look distressed enough; after washing they will look amazing!
7. Wash, dry, wear!!

Now you have amazing shorts in hardly any time at all, and just saved yourself the money!

Step it up…with Neon Heels

by: Ashley Stewart

A pop of neon this season is like 6AM boot camp in Central Park: scary but worth it – and much needed.   Whether it’s an electric orange purse or a neon green, oversized top, you MUST grab a pair of neon heels, and get noticed.

So, how exactly do you move to the bright side with ease?  Baby steps of course!  For those too scared or simply turned off by things that glow in the dark, start with a neutral color-based shoe that reveals a neon heel or sole. You will be sporting full-on neon in no time.

I like to pair neon shoes with a monotonous outfit (all one color) for that spark, creating that, too strong for words, look.  If you are in a professional setting and have a meeting to catch than pair these bad boys with dress pants and a blazer for that, I know what I’m saying, look.  Searching for an outfit for that not-so-blind date that you met on Match.com?  Well, to look as good as your profile picture, dress to impress with skinny jeans, a ribbed tank and a draped leather jacket.  Hey, if the date doesn’t go so well, you have already grabbed the attention of the thirty other single guys in the place.

Feeling inspirational?  Try this DIY I found at (www.whatwouldashleywear.com) to turn your old kicks into show stoppers.

#1 Start by selecting a pair of shoes that you want to makeover (wipe clean)

#2 Head to the nearby paint store

#3 Use Jacquard acrylic paint or Tulip soft paint for fabrics ranging from silk to denim and leather (don’t forget the brushes!).  For plastic, stick with the acrylic paint

#4 Start painting! Start small for a big look and if you are thinking the color may be too strong, you can always dilute with water.

#5 Let dry and get to steppin!

If you love what you see, then it’s time to head online, to your favorite boutique store, or to the paint supply shop so you can achieve this summer’s hottest look.  No matter what option you choose, one thing is for sure: you will give both Dorothy and her red slippers a run for their money.

http://pinterest.com/poshmark/electric-neon/

http://high.heels.com/neon-signs/

Summer is Coming, Bronzer it Up!

by Ashley Stewart

Wanting to be bronze is like wanting to be the president:  you have all of the resources, know about the different issues, but don’t know how to quite pull off the job.  Start with some easy tips that we found to pull off that bronze-goddess glow, we all envy.

Powder vs. Liquid, Gel, Cream

Choosing what type of bronzer to use can be a chore of its own.  With so many options out there, your bound to get lost in the maze.  But if you stick to what your skin needs and looks best in, you will achieve that perfect look.  If you have oily skin then stick only to powder.  The exception to this rule is if you find a great primer, then you can try the gel bronzer to achieve that dewy look.  If you have more dry or combination skin, then score with a great liquid, gel or cream, which not only gives you that glow but adds moisture at the same time!

How to find the Right Match

Never go more than two shades darker than your natural color!  The exception to that rule is if it's Halloween, then you can do what you want.  From there, follow this advice to choose the color that is right for you.

If you have fair to pale skin, choose a rose or peach infused bronzer, even try blush if you are very pale, and pull off that damsel in distress look.  If you have medium tan to olive skin, then go with gold and shimmer bronzer for the earthy look.  And for dark skin, stick with the darker, mocha infused bronzers for extra glow.

Bronzer ain’t bronzer if you don’t apply it right! Make sure that you use a blending brush; short, light-weight and fluffy. If the brush bristles are too stiff, the bronzer will go on streaky, and no one wants to look like a bronze zebra.

Once you have decided on your bronzer type, and your brush, it’s time to apply! This is when the power of three becomes so important! You want to bronze your forehead, cheekbones, jawline, and neck.  Your starting point should be right below your hairline on your forehead, swooping down through your cheekbones (hit your nose of course), and curve again down to your jawline and sides of neck, drawing a three on each side of your face.  This will leave you with a sun-kissed look, minus the UVA and UVB rays that demolish your skin’s health.

Tips!

If you are going for a dewy finish rather than the satin-finished look, try a bronzer gel over a face primer.  Facial primers go great after your morning moisturizing regimen and work by blocking oil and minimizing pore appearance.  Just apply about a quarter size all over your face and Hello Flawless!

If you must wear foundation, please don’t put on a liquid, gel or cream bronzer.  It will make your face look very shiny (not in a good way) and primer cannot save that mess.  If you are a liquid foundation-goer, stick to a powder bronzer.  If you wear a powder foundation, then slip on the gel bronzer before applying the foundation so it sets and isn’t too bold.

If you are new to the bronze game, start with a powder and leave the gel and liquid to the rookies.  It is difficult at first to master, so I recommend practicing before you perform a sales pitch to potential clients.

Less is more -  More people notice you (in a good way), the more natural you appear.  Hey, no one said you have to go Blake Lively on everyone, but if the question ever pops in to your head, am I wearing too much makeup? Then the answer is, YES.

Last but not least: if you have practiced and still don’t have the look that you want, get help. MAC stores are always around, and who doesn’t use MAC? Just walk in, ask them to show you how to apply bronzer – the normal way (no one wants to have as much makeup on as a MAC employee) and take mental notes. Good Luck!

From Poverty to Harvard | How Dreams Really do Come True

by: Ashley Stewart

Today is the day that Dawn Loggins will graduate from a small high school in Lawndale, North Carolina.  Soon after summer’s end, her journey as a freshman at Harvard will take place.  This story captured my attention because it shows the roughness, abuse and poverty that someone can endure, and then somehow, build the strength to keep fighting forward.

Throughout history, we have all heard the stories of those great people that overcame adversity, made a change, and survived their troubles; that is what keeps people motivated and inspired. If you haven’t read the well-written CNN article (http://www.cnn.com/2012/06/07/us/from-janitor-to-harvard/index.html?hpt=hp_c2), I suggest you do.  Not only does it bring you back to reality of the overwhelming poverty epidemic that rests in our nation’s hands, it forecasts how one’s struggle, can in turn, prove to be one’s success.

Not only should we applaud this teenage girl for chasing her dreams, we should also take a look at ourselves and evaluate how much further we wish to go in our own success – and how to make our life journey meaningful.  This shows that you should never give up and all though it is cliché, it seems to be the perfect fitting for such a moving and motivating story.  Let us all try to achieve above our standards and help people along the way to create a positive change in the world :)

Nail Stickers…Just Stick ‘em

From classic to trendy, to downright outrageous, your mouth won’t have to utter a word…your nails will say it all.  This season, take life with a firm grip, all while keeping your nails intact and chip-free.  Nail stickers and decals are this season’s sure thing, a way of avoiding those rushed, lunch-hour manis (that only last three days), and actually giving us time for the stuff that really matters…like lunch hour trips to an end of season sale or downing an entire Chipotle burrito in one sitting.  Whatever you do during your precious lunch hour, you can now remove the nail salon from your list.

By now, we have all come across the cheap-looking nail decals that we would never be caught dead in; but if you take a closer look, brands are popping up everywhere, and their stock of stickers is anything but cheap.  Nail stickers and decals have a bad name, but once you browse the selection at Duane Reade, CVS, or even Sephora, you will take a double look.  Designs from pure pink to cheetah, to metallic-gold are all options and the combinations, endless.

If you are like most women, and can’t stay within the lines when using the microscopic brush of an OPI bottle, or have the patience of a three-year old, then all you need to repeat is: peel, stick, file.  There is no staying in the lines with nail stickers.  They come precut and you just match them with the size of your nail, and file off the excess with ease. Don’t worry about waving your hands obnoxiously to dry them either, no dry time needed.

Stickers are the anti-nail polish and it’s clear to see why.  You can be cute from head to nails for up to fourteen days for only around $10. You can’t even get a polish change for that! Worried about your nail’s health after a Shellac or OPI Gel massacre?  Well, calm down…do a breathing exercise, and count to ten, because there is zero damage with nail wraps.  Another positive is once you’re ready to forfeit your bold look, simply peel off or use nail polish remover for a quick removal.

For great brands that have the newest looks and designs, check out Sally Hansen, Kiss, and Nail Rock. Oh, and for that, right out of the spa look, put the stickers on your toes and go all in!

http://fashion.elle.com/beauty/2012/01/13/instant-runway-ready-nail-art/

http://www.sephora.com/nail-bling-P294707?skuId=1357888

Girls who Show Skin have More Fun!

The rulebook this season is full of do’s, and pretty empty on don’ts. The verdict:  Anything and everything goes as long as you look good in it, which must be why crop tops are back with a tummy-twisting vengeance.  I suppose all women should be praising the genius (yeah, right), who thought it was a good idea to sneak these small tops back into the fashion forefront, but since top designers such as Donna Karan and Prada revealed there bare-bearing fashions on the runway this Spring, a whole new mindset has set in, on us all.

Before you hunt down the crop top culprit, read on about how this unsettling trend may bring out the NEW you!  The great thing about this trend is that there are several ways to wear these midriff showers, and different types and variations to give a try.  If you are very confident with your body and don’t mind getting some extra attention, then I would go with the bandeau type. 

Yes, people are actually purchasing and wearing swimsuit-style bandeau tops for a day of shopping and brunch.  Most of us, unless we are workout buffs or were on the last season of ANTM, cannot pull this off without constantly looking down, worried about what is happening below head-level. 

For us working women, a simple midriff bearing, corset-crop may be the perfect option for us.  This allows us to show just enough skin without feeling like we work in the Red Light District, and in addition, lends us the sexy appeal only crop tops can offer.  If hitting the work scene, slide on a blazer and a long pleated skirt or dress pants, to have an outfit that makes you feel like you’re on the runway, and look like it, too.

Still not convinced?  Then you should opt for the cut-out dress.  This shows the least amount of skin and if you are not feeling so great about your ab-game then this style is perfect for you.  It portrays the illusion that you are in tiptop shape without the hassle of the workout.  Another option to try, is grab a pair of high-waisted shorts or jeans and have a loose crop top that will only show an inch of skin, if that, and will give you the security that not too much is revealed.

Keep in mind that confidence is everything, so if you don’t have it…get some!  Look around, everyone is trying new things and there’s no reason you shouldn’t.  Yes, fashion is a scary thing sometimes, but it is always fun to try new things and that’s what fashion brings to us each season: new ways to wear something and new attitudes to go along with them.  Something is always too far out there for us, but with a little exercise (and some praying), we can pull it off!

http://www.vogue.com/guides/the-list-voguecoms-50-plus-picks-for-spring/
http://www.elle.com/Fashion/Fashion-Spotlight/The-Cropped-Top-Challenge/Wear-the-Bra-Top-Trend-in-Public-Spring-2012-Fashion-Trends-ELLE.com
http://www.elle.com/Fashion/Trend-Reports/Top-10-Trends-From-Spring-2012/Top-10-Trends-From-Fashion-Week-Spring-2012#mode=base;slide=36;