4 FIRECRACKER TRENDS FOR THE 4TH OF JULY

It’s crazy to think that only a few days away we will be celebrating the Fourth of July. To some of us Fourth of July means hot dogs, fireworks, sparklers, barbeques, and social gatherings with family and friends to celebrate our freedom as a country. However, to many of us die hard fashionistas, including myself, the Fourth of July means showing your true colors… reds, whites, and blues. So while your busy preparing for the perfect plans, I’ve compiled a star-spangled collection that will make this Fourth of July the hottest ever. From stars to stripes to solids, I’ve got 4 Firecracker trends, so you can look Yankee Doodle dandy for this holiday!

STARS AND STRIPES FOREVER

Let your inner flag fly this Fourth of July with the stars and stripes forever theme. What better way to get Fourth of July fever then wearing your American patriotism on display.  Designers have made this trend abundantly available in every apparel or accessory type imaginable. Show your love and get decked out in one item or two, from a bodycon dress to shorts to even a headband there’s an option for everyone!  

Here are links to get this trend:

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/262298.uts

AMERICANA CUT-OFF DENIM SHORTS at Charlotte Russe $24.99

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/262873.uts

American Flag Print Bodycon Mini Skirt at Charlotte Russe $10.99

http://www.cicihot.com/clothing-tops-tanks-jcf-swt16882-1.html?color=ltblue

Reversed America Raw Tank at CiCi Hot $21.75

NAUTICAL

Ladies, It’s time to drop your anchors and have a good old time this Fourth of July. Navigate the summer season smoothly with one of the hottest styles of the summer, nautical. You don’t have to be a capitan or pin up girl to pull this look off with elegance and ease. Just pick one strong nautical inspired piece, and leave the other pieces neutral as you build your look. Ahoy Fashionistas! I assure you that no tides will be coming your way when sailing with this trend!

Here are links to get this trend:

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/256536.uts

Open Back Striped Skater Dress at Charlotte Russe $26.99

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/264365.uts

Knotty Bow Anchor Print Head Wrap at Charlotte Russe $5.99

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/264432.uts

Anchor Graphic Swing Top at Charlotte Russe $18.99

RED, WHITE, & BLUE

Showing off your patriotic prowess doesn't have to mean dressing up as a flag or one of our founding fathers. Let freedom ring for your country and for fashion by mixing chic red, white, and blue pieces this Independence Day. Patriotic colors are a big trend all summer long. The key to wearing red, white and blue is that you have to dress in two of the three colors and use the third as an accent for it to be chic, and not costume themed. So what are you waiting for, pledge your allegiance to the fashionista flag and wow others this Fourth of July showing colors of red, white, and blue!

Here are links to get this trend:

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=promo-american&ProductID=2000108217&VariantID

Retro Woven Flats in Red at Forever 21 $22.80

http://www.lulus.com/products/let%20it%20flow%20navy%20blue%20dress/144098.html

Let if flow navy blue dress at LuLus $34.00

http://www.lulus.com/products/lulus%20exclusive%20positive%20outlook%20white%20top/147930.html

LuLu’s Exclusive Positve Outlook White Top at Lulus $36.00

http://www.lulus.com/products/lulus-exclusive-glad-night-sleeveless-red-dress/156370.html

LuLu’s Exclusive Glad Night Sleeveless Red Dress $49.00

http://www.lulus.com/products/playing-coy-red-beaded-necklace/155146.html

Playing coy Red Beaded Necklace at LuLus $16.00

DENIM

Celebrate the Fourth of July in Denim.  Nothing says America more than this classic iconic staple. Today, denim is by far the easiest way to show American Pride in style. Whether you don cutoffs, skinny jeans, or a denim skirt, this is no brainer classic for years to come. Infinite possibilities make denim so fun when it comes to styling. Make this holiday a star spangled hit by adding patriotic flair through sporting a nautical themed bracelet or a red, white, and blue beaded necklace with your favorite pair of skinny jeans!

Here are links to get this trend:

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/Clothes/Denim/entity/pc/2114/c/0/sc/2637/263691.uts?colorCode=301634104_475

LONG SLEEVE ACID WASH DENIM JACKET at Charlotte Russe $38.99

http://www.lulus.com/products/jean-says-washed-denim-shirt-dress/158514.html

Jean Says Washed Denim Shirt Dress at LuLus $41.00

http://www.lulus.com/products/dittos-selena-dark-wash-distressed-ankle-skinny-jeans/155066.html

Dittos Selena Dark Wash Distressed Ankle Skinny Jeans Love at LuLus for $69.00

for more information go to www.trufashionfinder4u.com

GUY STYLE GUIDE: 5 FIT TIPS TO SPORT THE PERFECT TIE

Are you fit this summer? So I’m not talking about literally being physically fit, but that’s always extra bonus points when it comes to sporting fashion, but I mean more of finding the right fit when it comes to sporting ties.  There is something to be said about a great tie.  A tie can be one of the trickiest elements in a man’s wardrobe, however if done right it can make a powerful statement. From Wall Street to GQ Magazine to fashion blogs, ties are globally associated with men, style, and status. If you haven’t noticed the tie is the one thing that can make or break a look. Some men have no clue when it comes to choosing a tie. Just take a quick survey around your workplace, and I’m sure you can find one or two victims of loud wall paper print ties, super skinny ties, or even ties that fall below the stomach. No longer do you have to second guess yourself when choosing a tie, I have outlined a style guide to get you in tip top shape when it comes to sporting the perfect tie.  

FIT TIP #1 KNOW THE LENGTH & WIDTH STANDARDS

Whether you're six feet four or five feet six, the length of the tie does matter. Be prepared to know the standard measurements of the modern tie before buying. Make sure that the tip of any modern tie should hit right at your beltline, not any lower. The width of the tie matters as well. It’s ok to go for a narrow tie, but not super skinny tie.  As a rule of thumb, the modern tie measures around two and a quarter to two and three-quarter inches at it’s widest point.

FIT TIP #2 FABRIC MATTERS 

Ties come in a variety of materials and textures. It’s important that you are wearing the right material and texture for the right occasion. The best ties are made out of natural materials like silk, wool, and cashmere. Silk ties have a more polished look and work best when you need a tie for evening attire, whereas polyester or cotton blend ties are usually more durable and can hold out in a repeated wear such daily wear to the office.


FIT TIP #3 EVALUATE THE STRUCTURE OF THE TIE

It’s important that the tie you purchase is able to hang correctly from your neck. To ensure there are no defects within the construction, hold the tie up by the narrow end, and make sure it doesn’t twist and turn. If it does, that means the material wasn’t cut properly and you have a tie that won’t hang correctly from your neck. The next thing to check for is symmetry within the design, and you do this by laying a tie flat on a table to see if one side is longer than the other.  Finally, the last sign to check for is if there are any loose threads or runs in the material.

FIT TIP #4 KEEP IT SOLID

Want some great solid advice? When in doubt, keep your tie solid.  Every man should start with a few good solid color ties in their wardrobes. Of course, who doesn’t love a vibrantly polka dot, stripe, or club tie.  But stay clear of paisleys, loud wallpaper prints, and yes even cartoon characters! These are often conversation pieces, rather than ties that anchor an outfit. Remember when you are assembling your suit and tie narrative, it’s a safe bet to reach for solid or subtly patterned tie. Keep in mind for starters, you should own a solid navy, burgundy, or gray tie in your everyday wardrobe.  

FIT TIP #5 KNOT WISELY

Once you have chosen your desired tie, wearing a tie boils down to the famous knot. Your knot shouldn't resemble a huge triangle.  You really need to know only one knot—the four-in-hand. Neither too big nor too small nor too perfectly triangular it the quintessential knot to go with.  This knot is asymmetrical so it does not convey an overly formal appearance and as a result of it’s smaller and somewhat elongated shape, it goes with shirts that have narrow spread collars or button down collars. The four-in-hand knot typically goes best with skinny or medium width ties. This knot is suited best for dressy occasions that are not too formal, such as parties or nights out on the town. Learn this knot, master it, and never forget, so you will be on your way to sporting the perfect tie all summer!

Here are recommended sites to find the perfect tie:

http://www.thetiebar.com/

http://www.ties.com/

HELLO SUNSHINE! 3 BRIGHT WAYS TO SAY HELLO TO YELLOW

It’s official, yellow is the most feel good color for the summer. Between sunshine, lemon meringue pie, lemonade, and sweet buttercup frosting, it's a safe to say that yellow is my golden ticket this season. It’s at the top of my feel-good-color list, and it's the ideal way to brighten up your wardrobe this season!  Celebs like Kate Middleton, Olivia Palmero, and Kim Kardashian have started a fashion frenzy for this color, but you don't have to be famous to pull off this cheery look. Here are 3 bright ways to welcome sunshine to your wardrobe!

THE HAPPY JACKET

From street style blogs to A-list celebs, yellow blazers and jackets are taking the fashion scene by storm. This is an easy way to update a basic look, and to bring a little bit of oomph into your workplace. 

STYLE TIP 1: NEUTRALIZE: This technique is for pulling off a modern day classic look. Since the color yellow is such a vibrant shade wearing it with colors like grey, white, navy blue, crème or light blue is a sure way to achieve a clean sophisticated look.

STYLE TIP 2: COLOR BLOCK: This technique is intended for the dynamic woman who is fun and creative when it comes to making fashion choices. With color blocking it’s best to use the color wheel as a tool in helping you select colors that will be best in creating contrast. Remember when color blocking to avoid pieces of the same tone.

STYLE TIP 3: MIXING PRINTS: Trendsetter is the name of the game for this technique.  This technique is not for the faint of heart, but rather the brave. Reaching new fashion heights is what your known for when it comes to creating your own style. Whether you choose to mix florals, geometrics, polka dots, or stripes, remember keep it balanced by sticking with one color palette and similar proportions.

Here are recommended links:

http://www.dillards.com/product/Gianni-Bini-Sheba-Knit-Blazer_301

Gianni Bini Sheba Knit Blazer for $38.15

http://www.zara.com/us/en/sale/woman/outerwear/tailored-blazer-c437599p1789520.html

Yellow Tailored Blazer at Zara $89.99

HERE COMES THE DRESS

Wedding season is here, and what better way than besides the bride to make a grand entrance in this cheery hue. This color not only guarantees attention for all the right reasons, but also sets you apart from the crowd. Who knows maybe you will be the next person to walk down the aisle?

STYLE TIP 1: PICK A SHADE BASED ON SKIN TONE: There are many different shades of yellow, ranging from ice cream yellow pastels to warmer mustard tones.  It’s important when wearing this in a dress to take in account your skin tone.  If your skin tone is on the lighter side it’s best to pick shades that favor sorbet, mustard, and gold, whereas if you favor more olive or darker skin tones opt for brighter, zestier, and more neon hues.

STYLE TIP 2: ACCENTUATE YOUR BEST FEATURES: Like a little black dress, don’t be afraid to flaunt your best features with the little yellow dress.  Whether you have killer legs, great curves, an amazing décolletage, great shoulders, or a narrow waist it’s important to focus on one key feature that you would like to flaunt. If your looking to show off your curves go for styles like bandage or bodycon, whereas if your looking to just focus on your upper body, choose styles that have lower necklines and flair out at the waist.

STYLE TIP 3: ACCESORIZE IN ONE CONTRASTING SHADE:  To put a refreshing spin on a solid color yellow dress, it’s best to stick to one color that contrasts when styling with jewelry or shoes. Using one contrasting color as an accent creates unity and more dimension to your look. I did exactly that by wearing earrings and shoes in the color of mint (pastel green). 

Here are recommended links:

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=dress&ProductID=2000121008&VariantID=

Strappy Crosback BodyCon Dress at Forever 21 $19.80

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/263875.uts

Neon Scalloped Sweetheart Bodycon Dress  at CharlotteRusse$26.99

http://www.lulus.com/products/lost-in-the-light-chartreuse-dress/156482.html

Lost in the Light Chartreuse Dress at LuLus $34.00

ACCESORIZE WITH SUNSPOTS

I spy with my little eye spots of yellow everywhere this season. From fashion blogs to street style, everyone is going sunny side up. To soak up this hue while making an unexpected statement, try accessorizing with this happy color in shoes, bags, jewelry, scarves and even headwear.

STYLE TIP 1: ACCENT: When you want to sport a yellow hued accessory it’s best to use it as an accent to your overall look. Just keep in mind the overall color palette that you’re going for when using yellow as an accent. Yellow as an accent is best worn with either neutral color combinations or thrown in as a contrast accessory.

STYLE TIP 2: PICK A HUE: Whatever accessory you plan on sporting it’s important to take into account the shade you choose. For example, if your looking to make a subtle statement choose lighter hues of yellow such as pastels, whereas if your looking to make more of a bold statement choose shades of neon.  Start with one or even two sunspots, and before you know it you will be singing the song, “Walking on Sunshine”!

Here are recommended links:

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/248389.uts

Patent Ankle Strap Platform Heel at  At Charlotte Russe $35.50

http://www.cicihot.com/accessories-bags-ica-cp-1852.html?color=yellow

Metal Flap Handbag at Cici Hot $40.60

for more information go to www.trufashionfinder4u.com

FASHION CHEAT SHEET: 5 MEN’S SUMMER MUST-HAVES THAT HIT THE JACKPOT!

Summer is just about to start and warm weather means one thing: long days on the beach, barbeques, outdoor weddings, short trips, festivals, concerts, and the list goes on. The question you are faced with is how does a modern day gent survive all these summer events in style and comfort? Don’t worry, I’m here to give you a game changer that will prepare you as a for sure winner in the game of fashion. I have compiled a cheat sheet of 5 must-haves that require no risky bets, but will hit the jackpot and have you looking amazing from now until Labor Day!

MUST HAVE #1 DOUBLE BREASTED BLAZERS

The double-breasted blazer has apparently made a comeback this season. Are you ready? Ready that is to embrace this 80’s favorite with welcome arms. Already making its fashion mark from the runways to it’s over night popularity on street style blogs the double-breasted blazer is here to stay. HOW TO WEAR: When it comes to this trend think clean and simple. Try not to over complicate on how to wear this piece, instead keep it simple by finding a tailored and sleek cut blazer. Stay away from baggier fits, because it could end up looking like a bad vintage find from the 80’s. 

MUST HAVE #2 PRINTED BLAZERS

For those guys who need a sure shot of style, this is best way to get your adrenaline flowing! Printed blazers are a great way to show off your style. Out with the classic blazer, and in with the new age blazers for your night out with the guys. From plaid to florals, and even grids, there is a pattern for everyone.

HOW TO WEAR: Go for a tailored fit, and also wear with solid color shirts and bottoms. For a more relaxed vibe pair with jeans, whereas a more dressed up feel pair with trousers.

MUST HAVE #3 COLORFUL SHORTS

The easiest way to transition into summer mode is by injecting color into your shorts. Go beyond the classic colors of white, beige, and navy, and get more adventurous with brighter colors like red, yellow, orange, electric blue, and teal.

HOW TO WEAR: First and foremost, find a pair of shorts in the desired color that fits properly. Since the shorts are a bold statement, stick with neutral color tops to create a more balanced look. 

MUST HAVE  #4 WHITE SUITS

Wearing a suit in black is already quite the challenge for most men, however there is something to be said for a man who can pull off a white suit. The color white can be quite tricky to pull off, especially when worn from head to toe. From fashion editorials to designers, everyone seems to be encouraging all men to rock the trend.

HOW TO WEAR: The trick with wearing all white is to make sure textures contrast in order to prevent it from becoming tacky. For example, a white cotton shirt looks good with a linen suit, whereas a white t-shirt balances out a silk jacket. 

MUST HAVE #5 COLOR BLOCKED SHIRTS

Block a part of your wardrobe to designate this trend as part of your summer style! Color blocking has permeated men’s fashion for a while and is stronger than ever. It's perfect for those who aren’t fans of busy patterns but still want a pop of color.

HOW TO WEAR: Whether you choose horizontal, vertical, or diagonal, color blocked shirts is an easy way to jazz up any look. Treat this as your new go to black t-shirt and wear with your favorite pants or shorts. An easy way to wear color-blocked shirts is to stick within a color palette. Whether you choose  neutrals, pastels, citruses, or jewel tones colors, picking a color palette for your overall look creates unity and allows for you to pull off this item with ease. 

HERE ARE SOME RECOMMEND LINKS FOR THE ABOVE MUST HAVES:

http://www.zara.com/us/en/sale/man/blazers/linen-blazer-with-white-piping-c541718p1763504.html

Linen Blazer with White Piping at Zara for $99.99

http://www.zara.com/us/en/sale/man/blazers/casual/floral-denim-blazer-c541719p1725517.html

Floral Denim Blazer at Zara for $99.99

http://www.hm.com/us/product/95002?article=95002-I

Chino Shorts at H&M in various colors $19.95

http://www.hm.com/us/product/28510?article=28510-A

Double Breasted Linen Blazer at H&M $99

http://www.express.com/clothing/fitted+short+sleeve+color+block+shirt/pro/5579035/cat1020003

Fitted Short Sleeve Color Block Shirt at Express $59.90

http://www.express.com/clothing/color+block+burnout+graphic+tee+to+e+photo/pro/4805240/cat1490002

Color Block Burnout Graphic Tee at Express $44.90

http://www.express.com/clothing/cotton+plaid+blazer/pro/6113214/cat1260002

Cotton Plaid Blazer at Express $118.80

http://www.bachrach.com/mens-suits-best-men-s-suits-shop-online/best-linen-suits-for-men/beach-wedding-linen-suits-for-men-white-monaco.html?gclid=CjgKEAjwt4-dBRCDnaTUn-mC_0oSJAC4Q6kGTCOh3tbQ1vhPheXbLz6r6sTOXioNqAIK-cklc3vM-vD_BwE

Monaco 2014 Modern Fit Linen Suit for Men – White at Bachrach $199.00

http://us.asos.com/

ASOS-Slim-Fit-Double-Breasted-Blazer-With-Gold-Buttons/- $123.85

(Put the description in the search tool on the site)

http://us.asos.com

New Look Denim Blazer with Spotted Print $95.25

(Put the description in the search tool on the site)

for more information go to www.trufashionfinder4u.com

FASHION GUIDE 101: 3 STEPS TO ACE GEOMETRIC PRINTS

I must confess math was not my strong suit in school, especially geometry. Back in my teens, my knowledge of theorems was questionable and I never liked proving triangles were matching, so I was quite surprised when I found myself this season drawn to pieces that are very geometric, and I can’t believe I’m saying it, have a mathematical feel too! Designers and retailers have put a fresh twist on bold geometric patterns that make use of diamonds, squares, circles, hexagons, lines and other shapes, which result in an acutely stylish outcome. Feeling obtuse about this trend? Whether you choose to wear a top, dress, or pair of shorts, I have pulled out my fashion guide to ensure that you pass this season’s geometric prints with flying colors. So take note, because these 3 steps will get you an A+ for style!

STEP #1 AVOID UNECESSARY VARIABLES

So how do you wear the geometric trend without looking like an unsolved math equation? No problem, the first tip is to stick to one print. Whether you choose to sport this print in a top, jumpsuit, romper, skirt, shorts, or dress, such as I did, sticking to one print allows for versatility and harmony within your look.  Designating one print as your focal point versus two prints creates a more modern and clean look.  Like an unbalanced equation, throwing another variable to the mix often results in a big a blur to your look resulting in an inability to solve for the missing X- the right accessory. Don’t over complicate your fashion equation by throwing in unnecessary variables, stick to one variable, and that way you won’t find yourself in a stump!  

STEP#2 DECODE THE PRINT

After you choose the key item you will be sporting it’s important to analyze the print and take into consideration the colors and shapes. These key factors will dictate how you build the rest of your look. For example, if you are dealing with a print that has more than two colors I recommend pairing it with neutral color separates or accessories. On the other hand, if your dealing with a print that has only two colors, such as the one that I wore above, target accessories that are going to contrast. I did exactly that by wearing red heels to contrast the blue/white pattern, which created more pop, and dimension to my overall look.

STEP #3 ADD A RIGHT ANGLE

No look is completely finished, until you give your stamp of approval! Since geometric prints can be quite fashion forward to pull off, you can add a bit of flair to your look by usually tweaking or adding an accessory. Go back to Step 2, and see where you can add a trend that you are drawn to. Make sure this trend reflects your personal taste.  I did just that by wearing tribal themed triangle shaped gold earrings and a gold tribal inspired cuff. Keep in mind with geometric prints since it’s so eye catching, it’s best to select jewelry in gold or silver finishes, while avoiding jewelry that contains too much embellishment, such as rhinestones or heavy beading.

Here are recommended links:

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/259100.uts

Bow -Back Geometric Print Peplum Dress at Charlotte Russe $20.49

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/263987.uts

Geometric Print Belted Strapless Romper at Charlotte Russe $29.99

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/253733.uts

Geometric Print Cut-Out one shoulder dress at Charlotte Russe $28.99

http://www.lulus.com/products/oh-em-geode-blue-print-dress/153010.html

Oh Em Geode Blue Print Dress at LuLus for $56.00 

http://www.lulus.com/products/lulus-exclusive-geo-grande-black-print-dress/147122.html

LULUS Exclusive Geo Grande Black Print Dress at LuLus for $38.00

for more information go to www.trufashionfinder4u.com 

GUY STYLE GUIDE: 4 STYLES TO COLOR YOUR SOLE

Are you afraid to venture out of your comfort zone and wear this season’s hottest trend? Some of you might be saying to yourself, “Colored dress shoes are you kidding? No Way!” But 2014, is all about breaking fashion rules, and busting out swag. Take some cues from celebs like David Beckham, Kanye, Bradley Cooper and even the oh so cool Brad Pitt who have received A’s for the art of “popping up.” Not the act of “popping up randomly per se, but the style technique of “popping up color” in their shoes that is! Like a Pop of Video from VH1, this trend is here to make unexpected statement. Good bye boring brown and black shoes, and hello color! Yes, as a head stylist and designer at Trufashionfinder, I’m all about the color, so it seemed appropriate that I share 4 styles to color your sole! Read on to sole search how to put your best foot forward this season…

 LOAFERS

Start steaming up your streets this summer with a pair of these. Simple yet highly versatile, they complement a large variety of social occasions and are able to pull together many looks. Whether you use it to sharpen your off-duty attire or play up your suits, the loafer is the epitome of effortless chic. Not only is it the perfect “go to” shoe for the summer months, but also when worn with invisible socks it adds a clean and modern touch. Designers have given this shoe a color refresher course in offering a bright and energetic take on this classic silhouette.

STYLE TIP: ADD IN A TREND:  Besides incorporating the pop of color, take it a step further and add another trend to your look. This could be as simple as going beyond the basic loafer and seeing what type of loafer is trending. I did my homework and found out this season’s must have is the ever popular leather tassel loafer. Here are links for this style:

http://www.dsw.com/shoe/bacco+bucci+stelvio+loafer?prodId=273197&category=dsw12cat1970004&activeCats=cat20192,dsw12cat1970004

Bacco Bucci Stelvio Loafer at DSW in lime green $69.95

http://www.shoebuy.com/l-c-micheal-61/711378/1460728

Loafer L &C Micheal  in Denim at Shoebuy.com $31.95

SUEDE DERBY

For many of you guys finding a summer shoe that is versatile, comfortable, and stylish all wrapped up in one can be quite challenging. Perhaps the most ideal style shoe serving both casual and formal occasions is the suede derby. The perfect balance of smart and casual, making this a great option for all warm weather occasions, such as barbeques to outdoor parties to weddings. Available in an assortment of bold, summer-appropriate hues with this season’s twist on citrus colors will separate your look from the crowd.

STYLE TIP: SHAPE: The old adage, “Buyer Beware” applies particularly to this style. Please note to take in account the shape you opt for with the derby style. Those styles that are sleek, and pointed will suit more tailored dressing, whereas wider more larger styles will be more appropriate for the every day look. Here are links for this style:

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/1901-carson-derby-men/3227364?cm_cat=datafeed&cm_ite=1901_'carson'_derby_(men):396510&cm_pla=shoes:men:oxfords&cm_ven=Froogle,Google_Product_Ads&mr:referralID=49c0f0bb-f3ec-11e3-8dbe-001b2166c2c0

Carson Derby Men at Nordstroms Viola $66.96

https://www.nordstromrack.com/shop/product/825194/vintage-shoe-co-vintage-shoe-co-warren-wingtip-derby?color=BREEZA+SUEDE#results

Vintage Shoe Co. Wingtip Derby in Breeza Suede  at Nordstrom Rack $129.97

THE BOAT SHOE

Boat shoes are not only back, but also bigger and better than ever. Formerly known as a yachter staple, designers have put a fresh twist on a 4.0 version of Boat shoes- A Technicolor explosion that will not only get your peers talking but heads turning too! From tri-tone color ways, neon blue soles, and stripes, designers have pushed the envelope with this shoe. 

STYLE TIP: THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX: Typically worn with khakis, seersuckers, or casual shorts, but think outside when it comes to creating beyond the preppy look. Add a bit of edge to this style by wearing it with camo print shorts, gray jeans, leather jacket, or even pairing a vintage t-shirt with it. Here are links for this style:

http://www.sperrytopsider.com/en/authentic-original-burnished-leather-2-eye-boat-shoe/

Authentic Original Burnished Leather 2-Eye Boat Shoe Teal Grey Blue Leather at Sperry Top-Sider $69.99

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/nautica-hyannis-boat-shoes?ID=753134&CategoryID=55636&swatchColor=Sunset#fn=sp%3D1%26spc%3D98%26ruleId%3D66%26slotId%3D22

Nautica Hyannis Boat Shoes Sunset  $64.99

THE DOUBLE MONK STRAP

Laces out, straps in! Guys, this is the dress shoe of this season. Not for the faint of heart, the double monk strap style is a game changer. Whether you wear them all suited up, or with casual clothes for the weekend, the double-monk offers a unique and modern touch to any ensemble. 

STYLE TIP: PAIR ACCORDINGLY: Matching this shoe up with the right pair of pants is more than half the battle to pulling off a dapper look.  Just make sure the pant hem is slightly cropped or is narrower at the ankle, so your footwear panache can be seen. For an extra shot of style adrenaline, try leaving one of the straps unbuckled.  Remember stick with smarter attire that means slim fitting jeans and lightweight tailored pants with this shoe.  Here are links for this style:

http://www.6pm.com/donald-j-pliner-zaki-granite

Donald Plilner in Granite at 6PM  $137.99

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/j-d-fisk-marc-double-monk-strap-slip-on/3667970?origin=category-

Marc Double Monk Strap Slip-On in Yellow Leather at Nordstroms $149.00

more information go to www.trufashionfinder4u.com

STRIPE RIGHT! 3 MATCHES TO PLAY UP YOUR STYLE

There’s nothing scary about playing with stripes, in fact wearing this pattern is a for sure safe move in the game of fashion. In times of wardrobe brain-freeze, there’s something to be said for having a signature print to turn to, and stripes are the perfect choice! Striped pieces are super versatile in they can easily slide from casual and cozy to work-appropriate in a heartbeat. But in it’s newest form, the stripe can be a little more challenging to pull off. From bold colored stripes to chevron zigzags to big top pants, these new stripes can leave one utterly lost. Don’t worry- I have tips and few tricks up my sleeve to not only play up your style but also beat this season’s trend in the ever-changing face of fashion by striping right! Keep playing… check out what match works for you…

MATCH #1 THE TWILIGHT ZONE

Start daydreaming! Yes you heard me correctly step away from reality with this look and take on the free spirit mind you had as a toddler playing dress up and watching reruns of Tim Burton’s Alice of Wonderland. Think fantasy and endless possibilities with this look.  Step away from the ho-hum vertical and horizontal stripes, and into the unexpected striped finds that feature the pattern in diagonal, zigzagging, patch worked or sheer varieties.  Go even deeper in the rabbit hole, by opting for combinations of stripes that cleverly blend with bright and bold colors to create flattering silhouettes. Eyes wide open, this look is one of kind print you can’t pass by!

STYLE TIP: NEUTRALIZE THE ACCESSORIES: The most foolproof way to wear an eye-grabbing match is to anchor it down with neutral accessories. I did exactly that by wearing gold/nude color wedge, and metallic copper gold necklace and cuff to break up the pattern of the maxi dress. Here are links to get this look: Here are links to get my look:

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/kensie-striped-maxi-dress?ID=1432357&CategoryID=5449#fn=sp%3D1%26spc%3D98%26kws%3Dstripe%20maxi%20dress%26slotId%3D22

Kensie Striped Maxie Dress at Macys $44.99

http://www.slimskii.com/mint-low-back-striped-maxi-dress/?gclid=CjgKEAjwn-WcBRD61NHM-uqDrm4SJADrP4tPywQSpM9-ZzlVhPglmsQ8FRijZEoxZ-9vwULRpLN0dfD_BwE

Mint low back Striped Maxi Dress at Slimskii $39.95

http://www.lulus.com/products/roxy-fire-bloom-teal-print-maxi-dress/142050.html

Roxy Fire Teal Print Maxi Dress at LuLus $69.50

MATCH #2 WALL STREET

Bring the trend into the boardroom this season. Like Tess McGill from the acclaimed movie Working Girl, move on up the corporate ladder while making a statement. Think beyond the basic the classic black and white stripe look, and throw a curve ball by wearing this pattern in different color combinations, but still going for a classic work appropriate styles like a shift dress, oxford button up, blazer, pencil skirt, tops, midi skirt, pleated skirt, or a maxi dress.

STYLE TIP: HIGHLIGHT: One of my favorite style techniques that I frequently talk about is highlighting.  Make sure to designate the stripe piece as the focal point of your look. This easily allows for you to build the rest of your look. Keep in mind it’s important that you choose something that is a show stopper so it can be the highlight of your look. Therefore, proceed with caution and stick with simple accessories and shoes. Here are links for this look:

http://www.lulus.com/products/others-follow-charlotte-black-and-mint-striped-dress/138770.html

Mint Striped Dress at LuLus $55.00

http://www.lulus.com/products/pleat-chaser-blue-striped-skirt/147306.html

Pleat Chaser Blue Striped Skirt LuLus $45.00

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?Br=F21&Category=bottom&ProductID=2000091710&VariantID=

Sweet Stripes Pencil Skirt at Forever 21 $8.80

MATCH #3 FESTIVAL

Summer doesn’t feel quite right without attending an art, music, or food festival. For those of you who are unsure of how to proceed with this trend, this is a match made in heaven! So, go ahead and add flavor to your wardrobe with bits and pieces of stripes. Add a graphic punch to your outfit by choosing accessories with multi-colored stripes like a scarf, handbag or headband would be a great way to sport this trend. Take up your style a notch or two by wearing stripes on your feet. If your looking for a shoe of the summer, try espadrilles, wedges, flats, and even open toed heels! If your still not convinced with this match, try thick bracelets, watchbands, necklaces and even manicures are surprising ways to show your stripes!

STYLE TIP: NAUTICAL THEME: Ahoy, Summer! This is the easiest match to ignite fireworks! Whether you choose a red or white striped belt, or a navy blue and white wedge, it’s pretty easy to create a nautical look! Always in style, and this style makes a statement. What are you waiting for, set sail this summer in nautical style!  Here are links for this look:

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/266835.uts

Stripe & Chevron Printed Infinity Scarf at Charlotte Russe $9.00

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/263320.uts

Railroad Striped Canvas Bag at Charlotte Russe $20.00

http://www.target.com/p/women-s-merona-penelope-espadrille-wedge-pump-assorted-colors

Women’s Merona Penelope Espadrille Wedge Pump- Navy Stripe at Target $20.98