Mix and Match: 3 Simple Rules

With a little practice and some confidence, anyone can mix and match the right patterns.  If it doesn't come as naturally to you, I've put together 3 simple rules to make it easier.

1.Coordinate one color- select different shades

To create a subtle look, while still being creative, select hues of at least one main color. It’s visually stimulating without being "too much."

2. Vary the size- keep one pattern smaller than the other to create a distinct difference.

One way to make sure that you don't look like you got dressed in the dark is to choose patterns that complement each other- stripes and floral always mesh well, as well as strips with leopard or polka dots.

3. Accessorize- add a pop of color from smaller details to pull the outfit together.

A colored belt between two different pieces works really well to separate patterns, or colored shoes or a neutral purse pop against different mixtures.

PhotoCred: http://www.chasingdavies.com

Flattering Fashion

When it comes to body type, disregard your height and weight; focus on your shape.  There are generally 5 different body types (which it's possible to be a mixture of one or more): pear, wedge, rectangle, apple, and hourglass.  Determining your body shape helps you decide which styles to embrace, and which to avoid.

A well-known example of a pear shaped body is Kim Kardashian, if you're in the same boat, you want to focus on your upper half to minimize your lower half.

• Avoid cargo pants or print skirts that draw attention to the hips.
• Try a-line skirts, to camouflage wider hips.
• Balance the hips with wide hems in pants and skirts.
• Contrast light colored tops with dark, slimming bottoms.
• Show off your arms and even out proportions with strapless tops.

If you're like Audrina Patridge, and have a wedge shaped body, draw attention downward to your waist and hips where you're the most narrow.

• Bright colors on bottom.
• Wide-leg pants or full skirts.
• Avoid spaghetti strap tops.
• Experiment with high-waisted styles.
• Look for clothes that accentuate your waist.

Natalie Portman has a rectangle shaped body, so it's important to try and create curves that don't actually exist.

• Create a lean look with long jackets.
• Details like ruffles and collars flatter the chest area.
• Wear layers to create more dimensions.
• Dresses with ruching or cinches on the side are ideal.

Apple-shaped bodies like Jennifer Hudson's, need to elongate the midsection to create a smaller looking waist.

• Monochromatic pieces
• V-neck tops to make the torso look longer.
• Belts at the smallest part of the waist.
• Empire tops and dresses conceal a larger tummy area.
• Boot cut or flared jeans create and even line from the waist down.

If you have an hourglass body that looks anything like Beyonce's, then you're extremely blessed! Finding clothes that don't fit too loose or too tight is key to properly showing off all those curves.

• Fitted dresses to accentuate your shape, nothing baggy.
• Wearing a belt at the waist can accentuate your shape.
• Wrap dresses give your curves a natural flow.
• High waisted skirts and shorts show off your hips while making your waist look thin.

PhotoCred:  http://www.sheknows.com/beauty-and-style/articles/826747/dressing-for-your-body-type

Boots on a Budget

Well-made boots at an affordable price may sound too good to be true, but sites like Zappos.com and stores like Designer Shoe Warehouse actually have trendy boots on a budget.

PhotoCred: Zappos.com

These Pink & Pepper combat boots can be found on Zappos.com for less than $50.  If that isn't pleasing enough to your pocketbook, Charlotte Russe has a huge selection of boots, starting at only $20.  Although they won't be as sturdy as a designer pair of shoes, they're perfect for those chilly occasions that need a stylish kick.

PhotoCred: charlotterusse.com

Designer Look-a-Likes for Less

 Marni Leather Pouch Shoulder Bag: $1,555.00

PhotoCred: allwomenstalk.com

 Forever 21 Glitter Canvas Tote: $27.80

PhotoCred: forever21.com

 A hobo bag is a cute and convenient choice.  This look-a-like saves you enough money to almost go to college for a semester!

 Roberto Cavalli Swarovski Frog Earrings: $625.00

PhotoCred: allwomenstalk.com

Forever 21 Flashy Frog Earrings: $4.80

PhotoCred: forever21.com

Why spend a whole rent payment on a pair of earrings that will most likely be covered by your hair 95% of the time, when you can get them for five bucks?

 

 Forever 21 Lace Yoke Sequin Crochet Tank: $17.80

PhotoCred: forever21.com

Stella McCartney Sequined Crochet Top: $595.00

PhotoCred: allwomenstalk.com

I’m a big fan of anything Stella, but my bank account disagrees.  The top from Forever 21 is a little more flashy, but either would be cute with a bright pair of skinnies and some boots.

WANELO: Want. Need. Love.

Online shopping is one of my most addicting habits.  Hours of “study time” have been put off thanks to my favorite app, WANELO.  It’s free and simple to use with a bunch of neat features that allow you to find just about anything you think you might need.  There’s a constant “trending” news feed, with options to either buy or save your favorite products.  Holidays are coming up, so it’s a great place to either make your own wish list or find gifts for all of your loved ones. 

Homemade Halloween Costumes

How is Halloween already just a week away? For those of you who like to get festive but don’t want to spend seventy-five bucks on an outfit you’ll only wear for a few hours, I’ve came up with a few costumes you can put together yourself. 

 

Photo Cred: http://www.pinterest.com/pin/388505905324737742/

Minnie Mouse:  High-waisted skirts and skater dresses are all the rage this year, so scour the racks for something red.  You can use a stencil and white fabric paint to make white polka dots.  Pair your outfit with white gloves and big round ears to create the finishing touch.

 

Cave Woman:  This was actually one of my costumes last year, which I put together for about fifteen dollars.  I went to JoAnn’s craft store to find some leopard print fabric, which I cut into two large triangle strips and tied them around myself like a tube top and skirt.  The more distressed the better, so I cut and ripped the edges to look worn.  I found some cool wooden beads that I made necklaces and bracelets out of, and to top it off, a  big chunky “club” out of my back yard.

Photo Cred: http://www.family.go.com

Tiger:  Hobby Lobby will be your one stop shop for transforming yourself into a frisky feline.  Find an orange t-shirt and some black or orange shorts.  Use black fabric paint to draw your stripes, and don’t forget to paint on your whiskers (you can use eyeliner if you don‘t want to buy face paint).  Pair it with some orange ears and you’re good to go.

Recent Discovery!

 Photo Cred: http://www.commercialobserver.com

About a week ago, I was on a mission to find some red skinny jeans.  As I walked into the Oak Park Mall, I headed straight to Forever 21.  Much to my surprise, there was a brand new H&M right below it.  Both stores are very similar, with an endless amount of trendy clothes for the cheapest prices, but H&M takes the cake.  They’re a little more organized, as any shopper would know, Forever 21 can be a bit overwhelming.  Lucky for me, their color coded sections led me right to the perfect pair of red pants.  For those of you looking for cute winter wear, I suggest taking a trip to Oak Park.  H&M has tons of sweaters for less than thirty bucks, which is a steal compared to any department store.