Category: Accessories

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Money Saving Tips from Stylist Sam Bell: Don’t Blow Your Tax Refund

Don’t blow your tax refund on clothes without reading these money saving tips! Wardrobe stylist Gen Bell offers great money saving tips for tax season and for throughout the year.

Sam Bell

1. Have a set budget!
Having a set budget on how much you’d like to spend is key. Everyone has different methods that work best for him or her. Some people prefer to use cash so that they can see exactly how much they’re spending and on what. My personal method is to create a budget first, let’s say $100. Then I figure out how many outfits I’d like to have from the $100, let’s say 4 outfits. Then I start window-shopping and comparing prices from different stores. I always check both online and in actual stores. Often times you’ll find the best mark down prices online!

2. Hit the Discount Stores
You can find stylish bargains at stores like T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, and DSW. Designer duds for a fraction of the price! But be careful, just because a store is inexpensive doesn’t mean you’ll save any money if you over spend. Learn control.

3. Learn to Do-it-Yourself
Learning how to make a few, simple alterations can save you lots of money down the line. Master the basics of sewing, replacing buttons, and hemming pants. If you’re a busy professional like most of us, then find a local seamstress in your neighborhood that can make the simple alterations for you. The point is to have you clothes last you for a long time. So if you loose a couple of pounds and can’t fit those jeans anymore, make the necessary alterations so that you can reincorporate those jeans back into your wardrobe.

4. Shop Out of Season
Seasoned shoppers shop for spring and summer items in the fall, and buy your fall and winter looks when spring rolls around. Clothing is always cheaper when they are out of season.

5. Avoid Impulse Shopping or Emotional Shopping
Many of us can’t fight the urge to impulse buy. Remind yourself when the urge arises, are these shoes worth it right at this moment? Do not buy the shoes, wait a couple of days and if you still want them and rationalize your need then buy them.

6. Think About What’s Already in Your Closet
When shopping, build a wardrobe around one or two color families that you already have. Keep your current wardrobe in mind when you shop, and don’t buy anything that won’t go with at least two or three other items that you own.

7. Take Care of Your Clothing
Caring for your clothes will help them last longer. Use the right amount of detergent, avoid the dryer when possible and hang and fold clothes properly. Pack your seasonal wardrobe! You don’t need your winter clothes hanging in your closet all summer long. Pack them in air tight containers that are designed to keep the moisture out and your clothes fresh!
8. Shop Vintage and Consignment
Fashion is cyclical! Trends from the past always make a comeback so don’t shy away from vintage and consignment shops. It may take longer to find exactly what you are looking for at a used clothing store so you must have patience and bring a friend for a fun movie montage.

9. Accessorize, Accessorize, Accessorize. No outfit is complete without the right accessories. Take a simple dress and accessorize it in different ways to create completely different looks each time! This will expand your wardrobe without having to buy a new outfit for every occasion.

About Gen Bell:
Wardrobe stylist and creative director, Gen Bell is the true embodiment of a career girl in every aspect. Bell was born in Chicago and is currently styling key individuals in the South Florida community in film, fashion and music. Bell has worked one on one with designers, boutiques, production companies, models and more.

As a previous writer for Haute Living, Gen Bell has an impressive resume for a newbie. With a portfolio centered on beauty, video, celebrity/music, and street-chic styling, Bell has a vast knowledge of creating an aesthetically pleasing composition. Working with color palettes, silhouettes, and design, Gen Bell pulls together elements and principles to create a final “product” which sets apart from the rest.

To view all of Gen Bell’s stylist services and her portfolio, please visit www.genbell.com

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Shalaja Swimwear Collection: Interview with Style + Life + Fashion

Style + Life + Fashion had the opportunity to interview the owner and designer of Shalaja Swimwear.  Located in Montgomery, Alabama, Shaquoya Jackson decided to stop searching for the ‘sexy, flirty yet sophisticated’ swimwear she desired and create it herself.

Shaquoya

1. When did you realize you wanted to become a swimwear designer?

Well I have always loved fashion, modeling, and entertainment, and I always wanted to be a commercial model and be involved in the entertainment industry (Hosting or interviewing.)

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I realized I wanted to become a designer in 2011 after I prayed to God to show me my purpose in life. When he showed me my purpose thats when it became my passion!

2. How long does it usually take to construct a swimsuit? And what’s your favorite piece from the collection?

To actually create a sketch design only takes about 5-15 mins depending on if I already have an idea in mind. Sometimes I sketch images that I’ve pictured in my mind and sometimes I sketch and design as I go. To get the swimsuit made takes around 2 1/2 weeks. I have a few favorite pieces from the collection so this will be hard! I guess I would have to say Black Chic Monokini is my favorite because black looks nice on everyone, and the high fashion look/design plus the mesh cut outs makes me feel sexy!

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3. What was the first article of clothing you ever designed? What’s your inspiration?

My first article of clothing I ever designed was probably a skirt and top when I was in middle school. My first designed piece that was made was a swimsuit. My inspiration for my designs are everything that I like. If I see a print that I like on anything it may inspire me to use those colors or print. If I see a beautiful piece of clothing item it may inspire me to design a swimsuit a certain way. If I see a funky hairstyle it may inspire me to create a wild and crazy piece that would coordinate with the style. What inspires me in life is the fact that I am surrounded by striving, successful, and supportive people who works to achieve the best out of life and I want to do the same!

4. What are some of your accomplishments as a designer?

Actually just making it to the point where I am now is an accomplishment for me. I started a business completely on my own; researching and gaining all of the knowledge that I can to make all of this happen! I was involved in Miami International Fashion Week 2013 as well as Alabama Fashion Week 2013. I will be showcasing new pieces in Hollywood, Ca for Facet Fashion Week 2014. I have been featured in Epok Online Magazine, and Life on The Water Magazine which is sold in barnes and nobles, yachts, etc. I have also had the opportunity to supply my alumni school, ASU, with suits for ballet dancers and their performance.

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5. Who are some of your favorite clothing brands?

I don’t have a favorite clothing brand. I wear everything and anything that I like. I mainly shop online at various stores, but I do love Versace and the luxurious prints used for their clothing.

6. What’s in the future for ShaLaJa Swimwear?

In the future ShaLaJa Swimwear will have a men’s line, kids line, exotic wear, beach lounge, and cover ups.

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About Shalaja Swimwear: 

The collections feature different ranges of pieces in an array of prints, styles, textures, colors and embellishments – from simple to space age, and everything in between. All collection highlights include creative monokinis, twisted two-pieces and one-pieces that cinch your figure into svelte mode. Future plans for ShaLaJa’ include exotic wear, beach wraps, lounge wear, hats, t-shirts and a children’s line.

Shalaja Swimwear

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Fox 45 Morning News Segment: Spring Cleaning Products

The whole experience of being on television is new to me but also very exciting. It’s an aspect of my brand that I didn’t pursue (or imagine) but was presented to me through a public relations firm located in New York.

Please see the segment below:

Fox 45 Baltimore – Discussing Spring Cleaning Products

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DIGITS WATCH: Prominent Ring Watchmakers

Stellar Radiance

There’s always the thought of looking at your wrist watch when we consider keeping time.  But why not look at your finger for a more chic look?

Digits Watch

DIGITS ring watch is considered to be one of the most prominent ring watchmakers in the world.  Their watches have been featured in a variety of magazines from the New York Times to WWD’s Accessories.  Not only are the watches affordable, but their made with high quality materials.

I received the Stellar Radiance ring watch in the mail and was pleased with the product.  My particular watch has a silver tone with a stainless steel silhouette.  And in addition, the ring watch is water resistant.

Stellar Radiance

To learn more about the DIGITS brand click on the links below:

WEBSITE: www.digits.com

INSTAGRAM:  User: DigitsWatch87

TWITTER: www.twitter.com/digitswatch

FACEBOOK:  www.facebook.com/digitswatch

 

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Ann Taylor Spring 2014 Collection: Wardrobe Remix

Ann Taylor Spring 2014 Collection

When it comes to fashion, this spring will be all about cool neutrals and trendy basics. Debuting Ann Taylor’s new Spring 2014 Collection, featuring the ultimate A-list pieces for the modern closet.

Perfectly combining the spring classics that every woman needs from the perfect shirt to slim pants to a classic trench, the spring collection plays on runway trends by adding sheer fabrics, piped lines and stripes in slate grays, creams, navy and black tones. “I like to mix different prints or textures within a color family so you can create this high-low look within your outfit. I think this love affair that we’re having with blush instantly modernizes and feminizes old classics like black and navy,” Creative Director Lisa Axelson says of the new Spring Collection.

Below are a few images from the new spring collection, which will be in stores through April. Please let me know if you are working on any Spring fashion trend stories. I’d be glad to provide Ann Taylor’s full Spring look book for consideration for any fashion roundup, trend stories or cover shoots. Images featuring Kate Hudson, the face of Ann Taylor for Spring 2014, are also available.

Ann Taylor Spring 2014 Collection

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Gwen Stefani Launches GX Collection with ShoeDazzle.com

Gwen Stefani’s new collection, titled gx launches today with ShoeDazzle.com The collection is a mixture between tomboy chic and old hollywood glamour; featuring diverse influencers such as tribal punk, and graphic black, red, white, and cobalt.

We’ve always been a fan of Gwen’s style so a collaboration with ShoeDazzle was the “perfect fit.”

 

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Jennifer Lopez Accessories: Look for Less from Designs by Millo

Can’t get enough of Jennifer Lopez’s accessories from American Idol? Well look no further….Go-to accessory site, Designs by Millo, carries almost identical items so you can “get her look for less”.

Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez

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Dannijo Blanca Earrings, $445 Designs by Millo Starburst and Mother of Pearl Earrings, $4,300

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Lisa Freede Wing Ring, $95/ Vita Fede Omega Ring, $188; Kismet by Milka Black Diamond Quilted, $1,875

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ShoeDazzle VIP Membership and Shopping Experience

I finally became a VIP member of the ShoeDazzle brand. We’ve all seen the catchy commercials and noticed their cute shoes.

After reviewing their online look book for this site, I decided to give their membership a try.

The process was very simple for joining the site.  I selected a group of shoes according to my taste and based upon the selection my showroom came up.

Once you’re officially in the site, there’s an assortment of shoes to select for purchase. Boots, flats, pumps, and accessories everything on this site is hip but yet there’s a variety for anyone who’s looking to update their shoe wardrobe.

Personally, that’s my reason for becoming a member because with such a hectic schedule I don’t always have the time to shop for shoes.

When I purchased my Love Pumps and Nichole Booties the shoes arrived very quick and lived up to the quality that I expected.

Honestly, I am an active shopper (now) on their site and I suggest anyone who’s looking to have a stylish pair of shoes to try becoming a member of “the world’s premier shoe society.”

 

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ShoeDazzle and Chloe Blanchard: Latest Lookbook

ShoeDazzle and Chloe Blanchard of Next Models have teamed up again to highlight the most desirable sporty-chic styles. Please check out the latest lookbook to see how stylists mastered the art of pairing minimalist threads with this season’s perforated heels.

 

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Heather Blond Premium Resortwear: Layering Style Tips

While the Southern Hemisphere is enjoying record warmth, here in New York we are battling bitter cold! Our fans below the Equator are enjoying their Heather Blond Resortwear by the pool or on the beach, but just because it is winter up north doesn't mean you can't enjoy your all-eyes-on-you fabulous Heather Blond! Yes, whether it is Moscow or Madagascar, resortwear can be worn anywhere!

Since it's been proven that bright colors and prints can lift you out of the doldrums of the dark, cold winter, this is the perfect time to rock your Heather Blond Premium Resortwear! The trick to wearing your kaftans and tunics in the cold is layering. By using your existing wardrobe basics you can create a fun and fashionable wardrobe that won't break the bank!


Here are some of our stylist's tips:


1. Leggings and skinny jeans – a stylish neutral base to contrast color and texture

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. Scarves – trendy and oh-so-warm!!





3. Layering Knits – Cozy cardigans for brunch with the ladies, chic blazers for running around town

 

 

 

 

 

So while it maybe cold and snowy in Chicago, before you head off to that warm escape to Punta Del Este, you can wear your favorite kaftan to brunch in the city, hop on a plane and be ready to hit the beaches when you get there!