STYLE FILE: 5 WAYS TO MAXI-MIZE YOUR SUMMER WITH A TWIST!

Go Long or get back to your closet? Hmmm, I meant to say, “Go big or Go Home” with one of my besties, Ms. Maxi, maxi dress that is! Like a true friend I can always count on Ms. Maxi dress, it’s always available, ageless in style, and can create a powerful impression. Forget it being just a one-off trend: Maxi dresses are here to stay for the long haul. However, not everyone knows how to transcend beyond the 1968 birth of the dress and into a fashion forward fashionista of 2014. Today, I’m going to get out my top secret style file to uncover 5 ways to Maxi-Mize your summer with a twist!

#1 BE ON TREND

You can always be on trend with any item. A fashion staple like the Maxi Dress is easy way to apply what’s trending. Designers this year are creating the Maxi dress in electric colors, ethnic prints, abstract prints, tropical/floral prints, and a bit of sheer materials.

THE TWIST: First and foremost, with a trend it’s important that you pick the right silhouette for your upper body. This sets the precedent for how you style the remainder of your look. Whether you pick a strapless, v-neck, one shoulder, or halter will dictate your choices of what style accessories you choose. Besides the cut, it’s important to establish early on whether you want a more formal or casual tone. For a dressed up look I recommend going more for glamorous accessories, whereas casual tone go  for a boho-chic look! Here are links to get my look:

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/Dresses/Maxis/entity/pc/3021/c/0/sc/2712/264222.uts

Plunging backless Tropical Maxi Dress at Charlotte Russe $28.99- my dress

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/Accessories/Jewelry-

Watches/Earrings/entity/pc/2116/c/2598/sc/2600/259907.uts

Fanned Faceted Stone Chandelier Earrings $ 6.00- earrings I wore

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/Accessories/Jewelry-Watches/Bracelets/entity/pc/2116/c/2598/sc/2602/260955.uts

Embossed Cut out Cuff Bracelet at Charlotte Russe $6.00- cuff I wore

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/Dresses/Maxis/entity/pc/3021/c/0/sc/2712/264987.uts

Aztec Print Halter Maxi Dress at Charlotte Russe  $29.99

#2: GO CHIC AND SLEEK IN BLACK: 

When in doubt, you can always count on the color black. Black not only flatters all body types, but is a great color to style too! Surprisingly, it can be quiet refreshing to wear black in the summer and step away from the norm of bright and vibrant colors.

THE TWIST:  You can kick up the style by accessorizing with trends. For instance, since neon is hot for the moment, choosing neon shoes or jewelry to accent your overall look will not only accomplish this, but get heads turning too ! Here are links to get this look:

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Category.aspx?br=f21&category=dress_maxi&pagesize=40&page=2

Braided Halter Maxi Dress in Black at Forever 21 $13.80

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=dress_maxi&ProductID=2000070863&VariantID=

Clever Cut Out Maxi Dress Black at Forever 21 $22.80

#3 ACCESORIZE R US

Let your accessories do the talking when it comes to wearing a maxi dress. Wearing a statement necklace with a the right maxi dress can make a powerful impression, or even adding a belt to a dress can create more dimension to your look.

THE TWIST: Stick to a theme within your accessories that is not necessarily going to coincide with the style of your dress. Instead it will clash by mixing different pieces outside the main style of the dress. For example, if your wearing a tribal print maxi dress, rather than going more boho chic with tribal jewelry, choose bling type jewelry to add a touch of glamour.

#4 LAYER IT ON

An easy way to make your Maxi Dress dazzle is to add a jacket. Sure, in the heat of the summer you’re not really thinking extra layers, however in an event you want to dress up the maxi or are just cold, a jacket will do the trick. Some options you can run with are a blazer, moto jacket, bomber jacket or lightweight cardigan.

THE TWIST: For a solid color maxi, go for a colored blazer or jacket in the contrasting color family, whereas for multi-color pattern maxi dress, choose a color jacket within the pattern that you want to use as a highlight to your look. Style it with a few bracelets but keep the jewelry on the simple side. Step out in a great wedge and your ready to go!

# 5 BE BOLD

Sure, it’s a no brainer that summer is a pass to choose a bold pattern in bold colors, and Ms. Maxi, maxi dress that is, the perfect friend to pull this off! Whether you’re into stripes, polka dots, paisley, ikat or something more intricate, add a maxi with a unique pattern to your closet that you can accessorize in a few different ways.

THE TWIST: It’s important to offset the bold pattern and color within this look by applying the concept “less is more” through the accessories. Sticking to basic style accessories and neutral colors will create a fresh twist to your look! Here are links to get this look:

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=dress_maxi&ProductID=2000069772&VariantID=

Abstract Halter Maxi Dress at Forever 21 $27.80

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=dress_maxi&ProductID=2000123501&VariantID=

Cutout Maxi Dress  at  Forever 21 $22.80

www.trufashionfinder4u.com

GUY STYLE GUIDE: SHORT TIPS TO STAY COOL THIS SUMMER

When it comes to fashion, it's a well-known fact that guys get the short end of the stick, especially when it comes to summer fashion. When the weather starts getting warmer, I can bust out tank tops, skirts, tube tops, capris, short shorts, dresses and the list goes on. Obviously, there are endless options for a fashionista, however for a fashionto, well….you have shorts and that’s about it! Few other garments within your wardrobe can give rise to such interminable debates as shorts do. Confusion will prevent you from buying them, on the flip side the idea of being stuck all summer in heavy denim or pants seem too severe. Shopping for shorts doesn’t have to echo this mind banter of it being confusing, intimidating and even a stressful activity, instead it can be pure bliss. Here are several short tips to stay cool this summer!

TIP #1 MIND THE LENGTH

Don't mess around with the length. The best length for shorts is about inch above the knee. If it’s any shorter you’re bordering on short-shorts, and if keeps on going then you can possibly end up with camel toe! Anything past the knee is not really a short, but trust me a half-pant doesn’t look flattering either!

TIP #2 ALL ABOUT THE FIT

One component of killer style is the fit. With this principle in mind, it’s important that you apply this when picking out shorts.  Proper fit is key to making you look great. It’s best to avoid baggy shorts unless you want to make yourself appear bigger. Stick with a slim-fit, featuring straight legs down to the top of the knees, because this cut flatters most body types. Stay clear of anything that is too tight especially if it’s bordering too short.

TIP #3 STICK TO BASIC COLORS

Sticking to conventional solid colors such as tan, khaki, white, and navy create more versatility within your existing wardrobe.

 TIP #4 STAY AWAY FROM PLEATS

Stay away from pleats as you would with pants, because they add extra fabric and bulkiness to the hip area that you just don’t need. Flat front is the best way to go.

TIP #5 CARGO CAN GO

Cargo shorts tend to make you appear bulkier because of the pockets. Although, there are slimmer cuts out there it’s best to avoid it, unless you’re hiking , lounging around, or  working outside.

TIP #6 FABRICS COUNT

Besides the style and fit, the fabric does matter. Good fabric choices for shorts are madras, seersucker, chino, twill, chambray, and linen. They are comfortable and won’t weigh you down in hot weather.

TIP #7 BLUEPRINT YOUR STYLE

Instead of going in blind and having no clue as to what shorts your looking for, it’s best to do a little research. See what’s trending in fashion by scouring the internet to check out both designers and retailers. Find out what you like and dislike and write it down, so when you are ready to pull the trigger of buying the perfect shorts you won’t have buyer’s remorse.

HERE ARE LINKS TO GET THIS LOOK:

http://www.express.com/clothing/10+inch+micro+stripe+flat+front+shorts/pro/3532495/cat280004

10 inch micro stripe flat front shorts at Express $29.94

http://www.express.com/clothing/10+inch+belted+lennox+shorts/pro/3532378/cat280004

10 inch belted lennox shorts at Express  $39.90

http://www.express.com/clothing/10+inch+linentocotton+flat+front+shorts/pro/3542470/cat280004

10 inch linen- cotton flat front shorts at Express $24.95

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=21men&Category=m_bottom_shorts&ProductID=2000061101&VariantID=

Cotton-Blend Chino Shorts at Forever 21 $17.80

for more information go to www.trufashionfinder4u.com 

FASHION FLASHBLACK: 3 FRESH LOOKS TO GET NOTICED IN NEON

As temperatures climb, and as we head into the hot summer season, I know my wardrobe is thirsty for a nice summer refreshment. So not the lemonade refreshment you would find at local street stand, but the refreshment of a shade, Neon that is! No longer strictly reserved for rave parties, on the job construction signs, and 80’s apparel, the new designs of neon are more high fashion than ever and ready to shimmy to the front of line of your wardrobe as the shade of the summer!  To help you pull off highlighter hues without looking like your a glow in the dark costume, or character from Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion, I flashed back to the 80’s and racked my brain to spin out 3 Fresh Neon looks that can fit into your everyday rotation but turn heads too!

LOOK 1: CLASSIC

My favorite guideline with any new trend is when in doubt go back and revisit the basics. This provides a great barometer for you to feel comfortable wearing this shade. In order to feel like your not going overboard with neon, choose neon garments in classic styles, like a shift, fit and flare, or skater style dress.

FRESH STYLE TIP: ADD TREND THROUGH THE ACCESSORIES: The easiest way to put a fresh spin on a neon classic garment is through the accessories.  By adding a bolder pink belt to the dress I wore, I was able to apply the monochrome trend, while also adding the tribal trend through the earrings. Remember you don’t want to overload this style technique, because the focus is on the classic style, so keep it to bare minimum with two trends. Here are links to get my look:

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/Sale/Dresses/entity/pc/2613/c/0/sc/2923/250604.uts

Belted Scuba Skater Dress in Neon Pink at Charlotte Russe $13.50 ( replaced the belt with a pink one)- my dress

http://www.lulus.com/products/lattice-dance-neon-coral-shift-dress/149226.html

Lattice Dance Neon Coral Shift Dress at LuLus $40.00

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/261307.uts

Strappy Neon Shift Dress at Charlotte Russe $26.99

LOOK 2: YOUNG HOLLYWOOD

Contemporary, edgy, and clean all describe this look. The key to this look is building your outfit around one piece of neon. Think jackets, peplum, skinny style pants, tube tops, skirts, or sleeveless tops. It’s important that you pick a piece that really stands out as a focal point. Make sure the piece complements and fits your body.

FRESH STYLE TIP: NEUTRALS: By teaming a neon piece with neutral garments reduces distraction for the eye, and holds the focus to one stand out piece. Pairing with white, black, grey, and blue are all neutral color choices to create this look. Since this look is very sleek, you can go bit further, and add more edge through either a non neon unique piece of jewelry or shoe.  Here are links to get this look:

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/260866.uts

Textured Bow Front Strapless Peplum Neon Top at Charlotte Russe $19.99

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/255676.uts

Refuge Skin Tight Colored Denim Leggings at Charlotte Russe $25.00

LOOK 3: ECLECTIC

Are you ready to take the plunge into neon territory? Scary, Right? No longer do you have to fear of looking like a fashion nightmare from the 80’s, but more of a trendsetter. This look is all about mixing and matching several pieces of neon. Nothing is off limits, and it can be any piece of neon clothing or accessory. The first way to achieve this look is mixing neon solid pieces with prints, and adding neon accessories. A second way to incorporate this look is through color blocking.  Try pairing one neon piece with another, but keep the rest of your color palette in neutral tones, such as the accessories. The final and last way to achieve this look would be to pair a neutral color ensemble with all neon accessories head to toe.

FRESH STYLE TIP: TRUST YOUR INTUITION: Like any good designer or cutting edge fashionista, it’s important that you go with your gut. In order to achieve a fresh twist to this look, forget Fashion 101, and take in account what pieces your eye is immediately drawn to for styling this look.  Here are links to get this look:

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/259498.uts

Neon high waisted skirt at Charlotte Russe at $16.99

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/261849.uts

Neon Patented Pointed Toe Pumps at Charlotte Russe $28.50

http://www.charlotterusse.com/catalog/search.cmd?form_state=searchForm&keyword=NeON

Neon Swing Ruffle Crop Top at Charlotte Russe  $16.99

www.trufashionfinder4u.com- for more information

FASHION FORECAST: 3 STYLE PROOF JACKETS TO ROCK NOW!

Like the famous quote from the acclaimed Forest Gump movie, the weather “is like a box of chocolates you never what you’re going to get.” Navigating spring’s temperamental climates can be complete disaster when it comes to choosing the right outerwear. One day it’s raining cats and dogs, another day it’s 55 degrees, but not cold, cold, and then two days later it's sunny and 70 degrees out-I can go on and on.  Enough said! Ultimately this leads to a common conundrum of how to PERFECT the fashion forecast by choosing the oh so right combination of comfort and style. Luckily, I’m no stranger to this, and have come up with 3 style proof jackets that not only do this, but you can rock them right now!

SPORTY BOMBER JACKET

Although bombers jackets broke out last year, this season they are currently getting an extra zest, courtesy of spring’s sporty galm trend.  The new jackets this year almost have an athletic look to them, and are much cooler than past heavy bomber jackets. Not only are they light in weight, but they are also easy to pair with any ensemble of your choice. 

STYLE TIP: Like a lollipop, available in a variety of flavors and colors, you don’t want to get too lost with all the style options, rather choose one that complements both your existing lifestyle and wardrobe. Here are links to get this look: 

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/249577.uts

Zip Front Bomber Jacket at Charlotte Russe $26.99

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/254010.uts

Faux Leather bomber moto jacket at Charlotte Russe $30.00

EDGY MOTO JACKET

Whether you wear high heels, sneakers, or boots this trend will complement your individual style. It’s a must have for every fashionista to have in their closet. Favored by the most stylish celebs and fashionistas in the industry, moto jackets add instant style to any ensemble. It’s so versatile whether you want to wear out with the girls or running errands, there’s a reason why I reach for this every time I’m on my way out. 

STYLE TIP: If you’re looking to add more of a feminine touch, go for softer pastel colors, whereas if you want to make more of a statement try rocking bolder colors like red.  The key to finding the perfect moto jacket is all in the silhouette.  Make sure the jacket you are going to purchase has a tailored fit to your torso and upper body.  Here are links to get this look:

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?Br=LOVE21&Category=Love21_Outerwear&ProductID=2000124831&VariantID=

Faux Leather & Linen Moto Jacket at Forever 21 $29.80

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?Br=F21&Category=outerwear_coats-and-jackets&ProductID=2000111758&VariantID=

Chic Girl Moto Jacket at Forever 21 $15.80

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?Br=F21&Category=Outerwear&ProductID=2027704606&VariantID=

Futuristic Moto Jacket at Forever 21 $27.99

THE CLASSIC TRENCH 

The classic trench adds a dose of timeless chic to your outfits from season to season. This is one jacket that is too sophisticated to miss out on! It really pulls together any look and is flattering on all figures. A trench coat transcends across all age groups and is eternally classic. 

STYLE TIP: Try to get more daring beyond the classic belted knee-length design in beige/black/white  by opting for a trench in colors like navy, light blue, light pink, light yellow, or even bolder colors like cobalt blue, red, or even a fun print!  Here are links to get this look: 

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?Br=F21&Category=outerwear_coats-and-jackets&ProductID=2000090405&VariantID=

Wild Thing Leopard Trench Coat at Forever 21 $43.99

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/laundry-by-shelli-segal-faux-leather-trim-mixed-media-trench-coat?ID=1205017&CategoryID=269#fn=sp%3D1%26spc%3D55%26kws%3Dtrench%20coat%26slotId%3D7

Laundry by Sheli Segal Faux Leather Trim Mixed Media $89.99 at Macys 

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/w118-by-walter-baker-long-sleeve-quilted-faux-leather-trench-coat?ID=737096&CategoryID=269&swatchColor=Khaki/Black#fn=sp%3D1%26spc%3D55%26kws%3Dtrench%20coat%26slotId%3D19

Walter Baker long sleeve quilted faux leather trench coat $79.99 at Macys 

www.trufashionfinder4u.com for more information

5 WAYS TO CAMO OUT OF HIDING IN FASHION’S IT TREND!

Do you Camo? Camouflage that is! There is no hiding from camouflage this spring.  This military inspired print is popping up everywhere and like Leopard never really goes out of style. As early as I can remember I have always had a thing for military inspired stuff, like watching the late reruns of Mash to playing with GI Joe to even picking out a camo t-shirts to sport during summer camp. This season there is no wrong way to wear this trend.  Rather than playing “hide and seek” with this print, I’m going to help you come out of hiding by giving you 5 ways to wear fashion’s it trend!

MODERN DAY COOL

Think camouflage print shirts, jeans, pants or shorts are all great ways to start incorporating this look. The key to wearing this is all about the fit.  Unless you want to look like your going to combat go for more fitted garments like skinny pants, jeans, shorts, and tops. 

STYLE TIP:NON STANDARD PRINTS: Besides making sure you have an amazing fit, take it up another notch by looking for non standard camo designs. This could be something as simple as the finish being metallics, sequins, mesh, or sheer rather than typical khaki print.  Here are links to get this look:

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?Br=F21&Category=bottom&ProductID=2049256958&VariantID=

Cuffed Camo Print shorts at Forever 21 $19.80

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?Br=F21&Category=bottom&ProductID=2047161527&VariantID=

Stretchy Camo Pants at Charlotte Russe at Forever 21 $24.80

EVENING GLAM

Want to throw a curve ball at your nighttime look?  The easiest way to do this and turn heads is through a camo style dress, skirt, romper, or slinky top. STYLE TIP: ADD FEMININE PIECES: Since camouflage prints are on the masculine side, it’s important to add feminine pieces when wearing this look. Some great options are heels, jewelry, sequins, pleats, lace, or anything else that screams girly. I applied this style technique to the strapless dress that I wore by adding a coral and gold necklace and heels.  Here are links to get this look:

www.asos.com

ASOS Bardot Camo Jacqaurd Dress $60

( put in description above in search once you are at the site)

www.asos.com

ASOS Camo Buckle Cut Out Back Shift Dress $26.88

( put in description above in search once you are at the site)

http://www.dhstyles.com/Grey-Brown-Army-Camouflage-Sexy-Pleated-Mini-Skirt-p/bana-226-grey-brown.htm?1=1&CartID=0

Grey Brown Army Sexy Pleated Mini Skirt at Dhstyles.com $25.99

EVERYDAY CAMO

No longer are camouflage print jackets reserved for the army and hunting, instead they are at the forefront of our season. Think more fashion dynasty, less Duck Dynasty. In new colors and styles, camouflage jackets are the ultimate everyday staple item for spring 2014! With so many ways to wear them and an array of prints and patterns, camouflage jackets are here to stay; no hunting or fighting required, just an eye for style! 

STYLE TIP: VERSATILITY: Choose a style that you can wear beyond a statement coat.  It’s important that you can wear this more than once or twice.  STYLE TIP 2: POLISHED: Besides choosing a style jacket that is versatile, it’s important to make sure you don’t go too big in size. Forget the notion that military inspired jackets are worn bigger; today you should look for a more tailored fit. Aim for an overall polished look when wearing this jacket.  Since the print is already tough and rough, choose pieces underneath that are polished and simple.  Here are links to get this look:

http://www.debshops.com/military-style-cropped-camo-jacket/91000048885.html?model_name=9003530

Military Style Cropped Camo Jacket $17.45 at Debshops.com

http://shop.reebok.com/us/product/Women-Alicia-Keys-Camo-Jacket-Apparel/BD702?cid=Z77673&ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=887390850299&cm_mmc

Alicia Keys Camo Jacket at Reebok $34.97

BRIGHTEN UP

Not a fan of your typical camouflage print? Designers have dropped it’s classic color scheme of brown and green, favoring something fresher, louder and admittedly more exciting colors. 

STYLE TIP: Light blues look great for a toned down look where as brighter colors like pink, red, purple, orange, and yellow are perfect for rocking a bolder but modern look on this trend. Here are links to get this look:

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?Br=F21&Category=bottom&ProductID=2000075261&VariantID=

Desert Darling Camo Skinny Jeans in Light Blue at Forever 21 $16.99

www.asos.com

ASOS Camo Mesh Insert Cami Dress at Asos $34.80

( put in description above in search once you are at the site)

MINIMAILIST

If you are not exactly feeling this trend try adding it in small doses, such as the accessories. Camouflage print handbag, or clutch would be a fun choice in addition to watches, scarves, jewelry, and shoes. 

STYLE TIP: NEUTRAL COLOR PALETTE: These accessories often pair well with neutral color ensembles. Also, with that in mind, remember to use the camo accessories as a highlight to your overall look, so pairing with neutral color clothing will create this effect. Here are links to get this look:

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?Br=F21&Category=Shoes&ProductID=2000071437&VariantID=

Mesh Camo Booties at Forever 21 $39.80

http://shop.guess.com/en/Catalog/View/931316

camo skinny belt at Guess $34.98

www.trufahsionfinder4u.com

MEN'S FASHION: STYLE SECRETS TO AVOID SUMMER'S 7 DEADLY SINS

Socks with sandals, wraparound sunglasses, tank tops- do I need to say more? Out with the spring, and in with the summer- tis the season for fashion errors, or what I call sins!  Summer not only brings in more skin and heat, but also unleashes fashion’s ugliest ensembles. Perhaps there’s something about the heat that makes most of you guys fall into a fashion comatose of abandoning any sensibility that you would normally exercise during the rest of the year. Maybe it’s the season slowness of just chillaxing with your buddies, family, or girlfriends that gives you permission to take a vacation from discriminating taste. Either way summer has a set of style mistakes all on it's own. These are the seven deadly style sins of men’s summer fashion, and lucky for you, I am here to save you with my style secrets!

SIN #1 SOCKS & SHOES

Any other time of the year, please keep your feet bundled, but summer calls for no socks at all, especially with the footwear of the season- sandals.

STYLE SECRET: Ditch any heavy-duty socks and if you need to wear socks with non-sandal shoes, go for no show socks or shoe liners.

SIN #2 CARGO SHORTS

Is it 1997? Are you painting your house? If you answered no to both these questions, then do not go out of your house I repeat wearing these. These shorts were in two decades ago, but time after time, from parks to the streets you can find many men sporting these throughout the summer.

STYLE SECRET: Try a slimmer silhouette cut short without bulky pockets. The key to finding a great pair of men's shorts is finding ones that don’t stray away from a straight line running from hip to hem.  And speaking of hems they should end an inch or two above the knee.

SIN #3 STRONG COLOGNE 

If you don’t want to be the poster boy for Axe Products, then please ditch your heavy winter cologne.  Summer weather dictates a lighter approach to your signature scent.  For these months you need to invest in summer scents. STYLE SECRET: Switch to something light and clean. Look for scents with citrus notes or floral notes they tend to go better with the heat and humidity as well as your natural body odor.

SIN #4 FLIP-FLOPS

I know you guys are going to hate me for this one, but I had to bring it your attention, your beloved flip-flops. Keep in mind there is a time and place for everything, especially when it comes to wearing your flip-flops. Flip-flops are reserved for two places only: barbeque type events, and every spot connected to the word beach. Any other place of business like going to a restaurant, the office, clubs, and other business establishments don’t allow flip-flops, so choose a sandal instead.

STYLE SECRET: Rather than resorting for a flip-flop to run your casual errands during those hot summer days choose sandals that are light and will make your foot breath. 

SIN #5  TANK TOPS

Gone are the days of MTV’s Jersey Shore, however if you want relive those episodes of Pauly D and the guys getting ridiculed then do so this summer by wearing a tank top! On the flip side, tank tops should be worn as an undershirt only, or if your at the gym for  working out purposes. So the big question remains, "What are you supposed to wear in the sweltering summer?" 

STYLE SECRET: Try a light colored V-neck t-shirt or polo shirt instead. Look for lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen which allow for more room to breathe.   

SIN #6 WRAPAROUND SHADES

Summer fashion would not be complete without a perfect pair of sunnies! But that doesn’t mean you have to wear terminator type wrap around shades as your “go to.”  Yes, I completely agree that sport inspired glasses are great for outdoor sports, but when it comes to fashion everything else requires style like an aviator, wayfarer, round or other fashion forward eye frames.

STYLE SECRET: It’s best to be prepared with what styles you are interested in. Doing your research on the internet and going window shopping prior to purchasing will make the process a bit easier.  I recommend going to at least 3 different stores and trying on as many styles as possible to get an idea of what looks best on your face. Although it may be frustrating initially to try on so many pairs, it’s an amazing feeling when you find the-one to have fun in the sun!

SIN #7 BOARD SHORTS

Move over oh so cool Mr. Board Short! It’s time to pull all those board shorts from your closet to give to charity. This is perhaps the summer’s most common fashion mistake made among men. The typical board short dips below the knee and is baggy, and in worst cases is so shapeless the lines merge into what appears to look like a mono-legged swimming skirt. So you’re probably thinking what other options do I have? And no I’m not telling you to wear a Speedo…that is joke waiting to happen, unless your Olympic swimmer! It’s called finding the right pair of swim trunks.  

STYLE SECRET: For even the most body-conscious men there are more grown-up and flattering options for men’s swimwear.  Remember, when looking for men’s swimwear they should fit like a great pair of everyday shorts. Go for slim ones that sit just under the waist with an inch or two above the knee work best for every beach guy this summer! 

www.trufashionfinder4u.com

MOVE ON UP WITH FASHION'S MOST WANTED- GINGHAM

It’s time to throw out the plaids, and the tartans, and get your hands on fashion’s most wanted pattern of the season-GINGHAM. Yes you heard me right! Designers have given this pattern a new makeover. If the classic little checks remind you of Dorothy and Toto in OZ, and picnic connotations, then, think again. If your still not a believer, please click your heels three times and say there is “No Print Like Gingham.” “Poof”, here are 5 ways to move on up wearing the most wanted print of the season!

TOPS UP

The best way to pull off this print is through the top. But for this spring, fashion has us thinking beyond the basic button-up. Crop-tops are on trend this season. Why not mesh the two?

STYLE TIP: GO CLASSIC: Go for overall classic look with the crop top. Since the crop top already shows skin, pair with solid color ensembles. Think high waisted pencil skirts or trousers. If this is boring for you, add more edge through your choice of accessories. Here are links to get this look:

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?Br=F21&Category=top&ProductID=2027704409&VariantID=

Cropped Gingham shirt at Forever 21 $8.99

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/topshop-gingham-crop-top/3707055?cm_cat=datafeed&cm_ite=topshop_gingham_crop_top:845324&cm_pla=tops:women:t-shirt/tee&cm_ven=Google_Product_Ads&mr:referralID=8321467a-d87d-11e3-9926-001b2166c2c0&origin=pla

Gingham Crop Top –topshop at Nordstroms $48.00

BOTTOMS UP

Cheers! to the gingham bottom being an easier piece to style than a top. Working your way from the bottom to the top is is the best way to start. Pick out a bottom style that you have in mind, and want to build your look around. Since pastel colors are a huge hit this season, I recommend looking for prints in this palette.

STYLE TIP: GO GLAM: Add a metallic finish top or one that screams “glamour”. Pair with heels that have studs, or a unique finish. If you prefer to go with a non-metallic top, add glamour through the jewelry and accessories, such as a statement necklace, unique clutch, or an eye catching shoe.   Here are links to get this look:

rever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?Br=F21&Category=bottom&ProductID=2000126303&VariantID=

Retro Gingham Denim Shorts at Forever 21 $15.80

http://shop.guess.com/en/Catalog/View/W4FA26D1HK0

Mid-Rise Crop Gingham Jeans at Guess $34.99

http://www.dillards.com/product/Living-Doll-Gingham-Skater-Skirt_301_-1_301_504432605?df=04230312_zi_coral_ivory&scrollTop=1999

Living Doll Gingham Skater Skirt at Dillards $29.00

HEADS UP

Do I have your attention now? I hope I do! Hair accessories, sunglasses, jewelry, and scarves are the easiest way to sport this 50-style print.

STYLE TIP: NEUTRAL COLORS: Wearing these accessories with neutral color ensembles create a winning look. Here are links to get this look:

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?Br=F21&Category=ACC&ProductID=1000105772&VariantID=

Rustic Gingham Headwrap at Forever 21 $3.80

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?Br=F21&Category=ACC&ProductID=1000070573&VariantID=

Fresh Gingham Round Sunglasses at Forever 21 $5.80

SURFS UP

Transport yourself back to the days of the pin up girl, and the surfer inspired look. This summer why don’t you make waves sporting this print?

STYLE TIP: KNOW YOUR BODY: With so many bathing suit styles it’s important to know what flatters your body type. Also, just because it may not look that great on the rack, doesn’t mean it won’t look good on you. Go with an open mind, and be confident in whatever suit style you choose! Here are links to get this look:

http://www.charlotterusse.com/catalog/search.cmd?form_state=searchForm&keyword=gingham

Gingham Checked Ruffle Bikini Bottoms at Charlotte Russe $16.99

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/258920.uts

Gingham Checked Flounce Bandeau at Charlotte Russe $18.99

http://www.landsend.com/products/womens-gingham-french-bikini-top/id_258477?cm_mmc=139971612&source=GS

Women’s gingham French bikini at Lands’ End $19.99

http://www.landsend.com/pp/StylePage-410142_A6.html?CM_MERCH=REC-_-FPPP-_-GGT-_-1-_-410142-_-410140

Women’s Side Tie Bikini bottom at Lands’ End $14.99

HEELS UP

Heels up are the easiest way to add a playful amount of pop to your look. Statement, highlight, or wow factor are names that describe this style technique.

STYLE TIP: DRESS IT UP: Try paring this shoe print with formal styles. Think evening dresses, jumpsuits, or dressy separates. Also, please keep in mind to avoid any pattern prints, and stick with solid colors when pairing the shoes with any pieces. Here are links to get this look:

http://www.shoebuy.com/bettie-page-flora/533795/1120323?cm_mmc=googleproductads_pla-_-none-_-none-_-none

Bettie Page Flora wedges at shoebuy.com $53.95

http://us.topshop.com/en/tsus/product/shoes-70484/heels-70512/gingham-bow-pointed-courts-2779772?bi=101&ps=20&geoip=noredirect&cmpid=pla_us&istCompanyId=da794a11-99cb-4206-8e52-61037452aeeb&istItemId=xqptixlma&istBid=tztx

Gingham Bow Pointed courts at TopShop $95.00 

www.trufashionfinder4u.com for more information