THINK PINK FOR WINTER!

Elle Woods from Legally Blonde, Barbie’s pink corvette, bubble yum, pink lipstick, watermelon, and who can forget the singer Pink! I absolutely am inspired by all these pink icons that it got me starting to THINK PINK for winter!  The hue pink is quite a game changer when it comes to creating kick ass combinations. Forget the stereotypical girly pink and think along the lines of contemporary day fashionista with an unexpected twist for a rush of excitement to your wardrobe. Whether you go for a solid color dress like I did or a simple sweater it's easier than you think. Here are a few winter ready-chic ways to get your pink on!

PUNK ROCKER PINK

Don’t get scared just yet, I’m not having you copycat the famous pink singer’s style that would be too much! But what if I told you that wearing classic styles of pink in combination with punk inspired elements like leather jackets, leather pants, motorcycle boots, vintage t-shirts, or pieces that have studs  can make your look quite avant garde!

REPLACE THE RED-AY TO GO DRESS WITH THE BERRY SWEET DRESS

Dazzle all season long in a berry hued dress!  Forget the red-ay to go dress, and focus on glamorous and elegant styles of rich berry color dresses. All hues of the pink dress are a step way from the conventional look of the red dress that is often worn during the holidays and into Valentine’s Day.  Focus on elegant and classic styles that highlight your best features with this sweet color.

TICKLE ME PINK!

The easiest way to tickle someone pink in the fashion world is being able to use accessories to take a look from dab to fab!  It’s a no brainer that the color pink is a perfect choice!  Whether you opt for a pink statement necklace, scarf, clutch, or stilettos , pink is a definitely a show stopping color for all the right reasons! The easiest way to fend off the winter blues in your wardrobe is wearing it in the form of an accessory.  Remember to wear pink accessories primarily with neutral color ensembles or look to the color wheel for complimentary colors to pair with.

       RECOMMENDED RETAILERS AND PLACES THAT I SHOP

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Category.aspx?br=f21&category=dress&sort=3&pagesize=30&page=3

My dress is a v-neck bodycon from Forever 21 $13.80

www.forever21.com

www.hm.com

www.charlotterusse.com

www.wetseal.com

http://www.agacistore.com

http://www.mystiqueboutiquenyc.com

www.necessaryclothing.com

For more information go to www.frugalfashionite.com 

WINTER STYLE CRUSH: SUMMER’S ABSTRACT TREND

Who doesn’t have a style crush I know I do! I’m not talking about style icons like A-listers or famous designers, or even the super hunky model type like David Gandy, but I’m talking pure style inspiration from the high street to art exhibits. Being a creative type I love anything with the arts you name it- acting, art exhibits, concerts, attending theatre, fashion shows painting, styling, and interior design! So when designers came out with a trend a few years ago that’s not only wearable for everyday, but also worth hanging on  your wall I was pumped! Abstract prints are no longer reserved for spring and summer months, but you can rock them out all winter long!  No matter what abstract piece of clothing you opt for the key is pairing it with winter or fall type elements to give it that wintery feel.  I have narrowed down a few style tips to make your chosen abstract print more winter-chic!

REBOOT

Just like the act of  rebooting your computer for real time updates to take place, the same thing applies to your winter wardrobe. This update especially pertains to rocking your winter ensembles with of course boots!  Whether you wear an abstract skirt print like I did, or go for an abstract top the easiest way to transition this painterly trend to winter chic is wearing with boots. 

FRAME AWAY

No picture is complete without a kick-ass frame that sums up the moment!  As with any winter ensemble no outfit is complete without the perfect cardigan or fashion jacket for layering purposes, and of course to keep you cozy from the cold! Longer sweater cardigans or shorter cropped jackets tend to add an instant pick-me-up for style and element of winter fashion to any summer or spring abstract inspired trend.

LEG AVENUE

Unfortunately  sleet, ice, dipping wind chills, and all that good stuff which comes with winter weather make it practically mission impossible for bare legs.  The easiest way to transform any abstract  skirt or dress piece to winter-chic is to slip into a pair of tights or leggings.

HERE ARE RECOMMENDED LINKS   *= top picks

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?br=F21&category=bottom&productid=2000103484

Abstract Scuba Knit  Skirt at Forever 21 $9.66-

My skirt was from Strawberry for 9.00 on Clearance. This is my recommendation that is similar in price range to my skirt. *

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?br=LOVE21&category=DRESS&productid=2000137321

Draped Dress at Forever 21 $24.90 *

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?br=LOVE21&category=Love21_Tops&productid=2000117621

Abstract Color Water Blouse $13.90

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?br=LOVE21&category=DRESS&productid=2000058321

Pleated Abstract Print Dress $17.43

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?br=LOVE21&category=bottom&productid=2000081656

Abstract Print Metallic Skirt $13.93

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?br=LOVE21&category=DRESS&productid=2000122791

Abstract Print A-line Dress at Forever 21 $17.36

For more information go to www.frugalfashionite.com 

JUMP INTO HOLIDAY STYLE!

Holiday Party Invitations are out, RSVPs are in , schedules are jammed packed , and of course  if  your like me the next thing to think about is the outfit! Just like the amazing food presentation and décor that you see at these soirees, the fashion is sight to talk about too! So if your over the typical holiday dress  but your not digging just wearing pants, look no further because 2014 is all about the jumpsuit! I have narrowed down 3 trends that make it easy to jump into holiday style!

RED-AY TO MAKE AN ENTRANCE

Like that song “Lady in Red” all eyes will be on you when you step foot in your destined holiday party donning the color red.  The color red has been huge this fall and will go strong into winter 2015. Rocking red in a jumpsuit from head to toe is no longer a fashion faux pax, instead if done right can be quite chic! Go for styles that are classic, flowly, and can create that old Hollywood glamour. With red it’s best to keep accessories in neutral colors, and gold jewelry tones to achieve balance like I did.

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE GLITZ AND THE GLAMOUR

Holiday parties tend to bring out all that glitz and glamour, and perhaps one of the easiest ways to do this is through rocking garments that have sequins, stones, glitter, or metallic.  Finding a jumpsuit with a jewel embellished collar, or with an  appliqué of sequins or rhinestones on it will allow you to dazzle all night long. The key here to finding balance with the sequins, glitter, or rhinestones in proportion to the jumpsuit and not overpowering you.

THE NEW LITTLE BLACK JUMPSUIT

 

Every fashionista has their favorite lbd for those occasions when everything else fails, I know I do! With the changing tastes of the fashion industry, the stale lbd is slowly taking on a more updated version of the Little Black Jumpsuit. When rocking the color black from head to toe it’s like a blank canvas which  enables you to put your personal stamp on it  when it comes to styling with the accessories.

HERE ARE THE RECOMMENDED LINKS *=top links

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=jumpsuit_romper&ProductID=2000081963&VariantID=

Strapless V-Cut Jumpsuit at Forever 21 $27.90

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=jumpsuit_romper_02pants&ProductID=2000060363&VariantID=

Wideleg Jumpsuit in Burgundy at Forever 21 $27.80 * -Similar to my jumpsuit

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/Dresses/Jumpsuits-Rompers/entity/pc/3021/c/0/sc/2628/272761.uts

Beaded Cap Sleeve Chiffon Jumpsuit at Charlotte Russe $32.99

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/Dresses/Jumpsuits-Rompers/entity/pc/3021/c/0/sc/2628/268636.uts

Beaded Bib Strappy Deep V Jumpsuit  at Charlotte Russe $32.99

http://www.agacistore.com/chain-reaction-jumpsuit/30030-15144.html?dwvar_30030-15144_color=41#sz=100&start=1

Chain Reaction Jumpsuit  at Agacia 19.50

http://www.agacistore.com/drape-kimono-sleeve-jumpsuit/30010-15891.html?dwvar_30010-15891_color=41#sz=100&start=1

Drape Kimono Jumpsuit at Agacia $35.50 *

For more information go to www.frugalfashionite.com

WEDNESDAY WINTER FASHION: KNIT UP YOUR STYLE!

Now that Christmas and New Years are slowly approaching it’s that time of year where staying warm may triumph over style. However dressing to stay warm doesn’t mean you have to always look like your covered up in a  snuggie 24-7! Designers and retailers have come up with so many fresh versions of sweaters that building close-knit relationships with you favorite slouchy, dress sweater, or cropped sweater may give your loyal lbd a run for it’s money! Knits no longer have to be like the basic vanilla ice cream on a sundae when it comes to adding an extra kick of style, instead it can be more  flavor like rocky road or moose tracks!   Whether you want to go for loose knit crew like I did or a sweater dress the art in executing a perfect 10 all boils down to what you pair it with. Lucky for you, I have gone on a bit of a sweater craze and have narrowed down my favorite styles to help you not only kick your snuggie to the side, but keep the sizzle all fashion season long!

CLASSIC CREWNECK

Classic Crewneck sweaters are a must have for every fashionista. It’s the most versatile sweater that one can own, so get one in at least two neutral solid colors and then go for one in a different design like I did. When opting for one in a different design stick with a neutral color palette because it creates more versatility.  I did just that by opting for black and white knit which created endless styling options. To create more of a pop factor to the sweater I paired with cobalt blue pants.  Remember any Black and white color scheme makes it easy to pair with practically any color. 

OVERSIZED SWEATERS

The art of slouchy is more fashionable than ever this season. With slouchy oversized sweaters look at areas where you can give it shape. This can be something as simple as adding a belt, wearing leggings, tights, or a micro mini.  It’s important to create balance and that comes with either wearing form fitting separates or creating dimension with the accessories.

CHUNKY KNITS

 With chucky knits the options are endless. Whether you want to use as layering piece and throw on a fur vest or pair with leggings and riding boots this is a quintessential winter staple. Chunky sweaters also are great to be worn in monochromatic looks or on the other end of the spectrum in creating a color block effect.

GRAPHIC SWEATER

For a bit more drama trying wearing a graphic sweater.  Not only is it going to bring a cool vibe, but also it will give your style an extra oomph of edge. These tend to look great when paired with trousers, black leather leggings, midi or mini skirts. Dress this type of sweater up rather than down.

CARDIGAN SWEATER

 The Cardigan sweater is great addition to be used in layering, dressing down an outfit, or framing a bold statement top. I view the cardigan as that missing variable in an equation to complete a look. You can add this piece to practically any look, and it’s best to have a long as well as a shorter version. Neutral colors like black, navy, grey, or beige are the best for starters. Wear with a belt, open it up, layer it with a turtleneck or camisole underneath, or wear with a pair of skinnies.

CROPPED SWEATER

The cropped sweater is the perfect item to wear on a girl’s night out or on a hot date!  Dress it up with high waisted pencil skirt or jeans, and throw on a pair of stilettos and your ready to go.  

METALLIC OR SEQUIN SWEATER

Holiday parties are in full blast, so try wearing a metallic sweater, or sequin or glitter appliqué sweater to replace the go-to holiday dress or jumpsuit. Remember these sweaters look best when paired with darker solid color separates like black, dark brown, or charcoal grey.

FAIR ISLE SWEATER

You don’t have to be a ski bunny or a poster child for holiday season to sport the Fair Isle Print Sweater in killer style! A holiday favorite for festive wear, but if styled right can be worn past the jolly season.  Like any  piece of clothing depending on the style, garment, and fit  that you opt for will determine how you style it. Remember when choosing the perfect  fair isle sweater it’s all about size of scale when it comes to pattern and fit. If you go for oversized versions make sure the pattern is smaller and is only on the upper section of top, whereas if you go for more form fitting far isle sweaters go for a larger print. Furthermore, adding more elements of glamour and formality to dress up this casual piece will create a winter chic style!

HERE ARE LINKS TO KNIT UP YOUR STYLE =* top choices

http://www.hm.com/us/product/23953?article=23953-A#article=23953-B

KNIT SWEATER In GREY MELANGE AT H&M FOR $17.95 *=MY SWEATER

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=sweater&ProductID=2000116947&VariantID=

Draped Shawl Cardigan at Forever 21 $14.90

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=sweater&ProductID=2000066906&VariantID=

Colorblock Cable Knit Sweater at Forever 21 $27.80 *

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=sweater&ProductID=2000100634&VariantID=

Abstract Geo-Patterned Poncho at Forever 21 $27.90 *

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=sweater&ProductID=2055878275&VariantID=

Abstract Brushstroke Sweater at Forever 21 $19.90

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=sweater_printed&ProductID=2000059887&VariantID=

Fair Isle Sweater at Forever 21 $22.80

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=sweater_printed&ProductID=2000130114&VariantID=

Striped Metallic Woven Sweater at $24.90

http://www.forever21.com/Search/SearchResult.aspx#brm-search?request_type=search&search_type=keyword&q=sequin%20sweater&l=sequin%20sweater

Feeling Festive Sequined Sweater at Forever 21  $22.80

For more information go to www.frugalfashionite.com 

THE GOOD-TO-GO FUR VEST!

Let’s face it when it comes to dressing for cold weather the options are slim to none.  Spending my entire life in a cold weather climate this has been quite the dilemma!  As each winter approaches the question becomes how does one stay warm and fashionable at the same time? With so many accessories like earmuffs, scarves, furry boots, gloves, and other items to protect one from the cold the art of choosing which ones to create an instant polished look over looking like your one of the kids again heading to play in the snow can be quite complex! Luckily, I have done my research and a little secret I discovered along the way is that the fur vest is fashion’s best winter accessory. You can literally throw a fur vest with everything from skirts ,pants, dresses, sweaters, blouses, leggings and jeans.  Whether you want to wear with a blouse, sweater, or plain shirt the options are endless. Fur vests come in several colors and styles. In order to get the most bang for your buck go for styles and colors that can fit into your everyday wardrobe.  For a dressy casual version you can wear it with flared jeans, a white blouse, and heels like I did. On the other hand, for a more formal take wear it over a black dress or pants.   Here are some quick tips to make the good-to-go fur vest your best fashion accessory this winter season!

• Go for classic styles and stick to neutral colors like black, brown, beige, or crème to create more versatility

• To create a more formal look stick to monochromatic pieces and opt for a black colored fur vest

• Add leather pants and booties with your fur vest to create a rocker chic look

• Add flared jeans like I did to create a touch of bohemian glamour

• For an office appropriate look wear over a solid knit color dress or try a pencil skirt and turtleneck

• Look for styles that are going to flatter your body type.  If you’re taller go for longer lengths if your more on the petite side like myself go for silhouettes and styles that are not going over power you

• Remember it doesn’t have to be real fur it can be faux fur.  Whether it’s 25 dollars or 70 dollars it’s all about the look and feel principal that I stress which is moving your focus away from brand name items, and focusing on the look versus the cost.  

HERE ARE RECOMMENDED LINKS *= top picks

http://www.rainbowshops.com/Faux-Fur-Vest/1414066459195,default,pd.html?dwvar_1414066459195_color=CREAM

Faux Fur Sweater Vest in mocha at Rainbow $24.99- my vest *

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?br=LOVE21&category=Love21_Outerwear&productid=2000059280

Textured Faux Fur Vest at Forever 21 $44.80 *

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?br=F21&category=outerwear_coats-and-jackets&productid=2000057254

Faux Fur Vest at Forever 21 $34.90 *

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?br=F21&category=outerwear_coats-and-jackets&productid=2000101485

Longline Faux Fur Vest at Forever 21 $42.80

FALL INTO LOVE WITH FLORALS!

As temperature dips, and the holiday season looms, the theme of love permeates all over from couples getting engaged over the holidays to new relationships beginning to the gathering of family and friends, and of course giving to the less fortunate. Although summer is long gone, and the landscape is desolate with Uggs, and parkas everywhere doesn’t mean you can’t find a bit of love for summer’s sweet florals! If you have been following my blog you might notice that I have a little floral obsession to say the least!  The sight of pure flowers gets me super excited so can you imagine when I decided to rack my brain and come up with fresh ways to wear florals all fall and winter long! Read on to find out how to add a bit of love and joy this season long while falling head over heels in love…

TIS THE SEASON OF MOCK NECKS!

Nothing says fall or winter then a mock neck/ turtleneck piece of clothing. This signifies coziness, warmth, and that the cold weather is finally here. Whether you want to wear a floral mock neck sleeveless dress like I did, or go for a richer darker floral long sleeve turtleneck remember to add an extra bit of dimension.  This can be done through the styling of the accessories or an added layer.

CRISP BLACK AND WHITE

Yummy stuffed turkey and rich eggnog are to Thanksgiving and Christmas as monochromatic black and white prints are to fall and winter.  Perhaps one of the easiest ways to wear florals all winter long is black and white. 

PUNK IT UP

The rebel schoolgirl and rocker chic trend isn’t reserved only for Halloween, but celebs to the highstreet are being spotted all over in this. I absolutely love this trend because it adds a bit of edge to a classic print.  The first way you can achieve this is to go for a floral piece that exudes a bit more of the punk inspired motif such as a piece that has studs, or even a funky graphic floral pattern. The second way is to pair classic floral prints with punk inspired pieces like a moto leather jacket, leather pants, leather skirts, black motorcycle boots, or booties.

PAIR WITH GO-TO BOOTS

Like a solid structural foundation is to a building, a snazzy pair of boots are the building blocks to every fall wardrobe.  Pair your designated floral top, skirt, or dress with a pair of classic riding boots or ankle boots to provide a fresh fall twist!

BLOSSOMING SHIFT DRESSES

With the swinging 60’s and groovy 70’s shift dresses are blossoming all over the fashion scene and for good reason!  An absolute favorite of mine to spice up my style. Whether you wear a floral shift dress over your leggings, tights, or skinnies this is the perfect fall staple because it’s extremely versatile and can get you thinking out of box when comes to creating kick ass outfits!

HERE ARE RECOMMENDED LINKS *=top choices

http://www.maykool.com/dresses-light-blue-floral-print-bodycon-party-dress-010972.html?gclid=CjwKEAiAqMajBRCdjejki6yjuDwSJACQeVukPMw_EuO_tv6HBc89TaGoeZXso5z8i2skVeBcjgyNRhoCEjHw_wcB

Light Blue Floral Print Bodycon Dress $22.99 At Maykool *

Similar to my dress- I got my dress at Rainbow stores on Clearance for $7.00

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?br=LOVE21&category=DRESS&productid=2000137668

Pleated Floral Oganza Dress at Forever 21 $27.90

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?br=F21&category=DRESS&productid=2000099983

Floral Print Skater Dress at Forever 21 $22.90

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?br=F21&category=DRESS&productid=2000102940

Rhinestoned Floral Halter Dress at Forever 21 $32.90 *

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?br=F21&category=outerwear_coats-and-jackets&productid=2000102623

Floral Bomber Jacket at Forever 21 $24.80

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?br=LOVE21&category=DRESS&productid=2000085123

Floral Print Mock Neck Dress $19.46

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/271519.uts

Ikat Floral Cold Shoulder Dress at Charlotte Russe $26.99 

http://www.lulus.com/products/near-and-far-out-black-floral-print-dress/179610.html

Near and Far Out Black Floral Print Dress at LuLus $48.00 *

For more information go to www.frugalfashionite.com