Packing Tips for Fashion Girls: Look Fabulous on Vacation

Going on vacation is an exciting time for any fashion girl.  But there’s always the dilemma of packing for an extended amount of time.  Honestly, it can become overwhelming and the thought of going through airport security’s mentally exhausting.

Ready for anything with my Vera Bradley Duffle Bag
Ready for anything with my Vera Bradley Duffle Bag

We shouldn’t let that distract us from looking fabulous and having a good time.  To help us get motivated I want to share a few quick packing tips:

1.  Always pack a variety of summer dresses – whether it’s a maxi or shift dress.  Packing a dress makes room in your duffle bag and you don’t have to iron!

2.  Use accessories to dress up your vacation style or tone it down.  Pack a fedora hat (so we don’t have to worry about our hair) add a belt to cinch the waist for a sexy look and a few statement necklaces to dress up a basic t shirt.

Simple Travel Accessories
Simple Travel Accessories

3.  Your shoe collection should also be effortless style.  Include flip flops (easy to put on) flats for a cool night and two pairs of pumps.  In terms of pumps, I like to go with a basic color that coordinates with any garment such as nude or black.

4.  Undergarments need to reflect your coordinated pieces.  For example, a new mom should include a slimming camisole to keep the abdominal muscles (firm) underneath a blouse.  We can also add a bodysuit for that gorgeous dress that shows your curves.

5.  In terms of pants, consider a pair of shorts, jeans, or even leggings.  All three are great options when packing your vacation attire because they’re transitional pieces that can mix and match.

Kimmie Ready for Travel
Kimmie Ready for Travel

6.  Don’t forget your swimsuit – I like to keep two options in mind; one swimsuit for a sexy date and another suit for having a good time (you’re not concerned with your appearance in this suit because it’s comfortable.)

Packing for any trip can be demanding but with the right tips and perspective, we can have an amazing time and still look great!

Ashley Martini – Is Your Wardrobe Stressing You Out and Style Tips

As if there weren’t enough to worry about in day-to-day life, people often find themselves frozen in front of their closets during the morning rush, panicking about what to wear.

“I think everyone has that terrible feeling of insecurity from time to time when you just know you have on the wrong outfit – as if it’s not just your clothes that are frumpy and outdated, but you, too,” says styling consultant Ashley Martini, author of the new book, “Styletini,” and founding member of Martini Fashions, (www.ashleymartini.com).

“Unfortunately, in today’s society, people do judge books by their covers – and perception is reality. You can sense how people respond to you, especially in relation to job opportunities and relationships.”

Getting your outfit right can be challenging, she concedes. People want to be confident yet comfortable; up-to-date yet not necessarily “hipsteriffic;” professional but not overly formal. Most have a favorite outfit or two, but those get old quickly when worn twice a week.

“One of the first things you should understand is that your criteria really isn’t conflicting – you can be stylish, professional and comfortable, all with that stamp of individuality,” Martini says. “You just have to know what to look for.”

Martini talks tips to take the stress out of the morning dress hour.

• Not all trends work for all body types. “You have to be honest with yourself; skinny jeans may not work for you, and forcing yourself into a pair that’s semi-workable is not the best way to optimize your closet,” she says. “The trendiest thing any individual can do is answer the question: Is it flattering?”

Women have six basic body types: triangle, narrow above the waist and wider on the bottom; inverted triangle, with fuller shoulders and chest and slim hips and thighs; rectangle, also known as athletic with little definition in the waist and hips; diamond, high-sitting, full stomach with wide hips and full thighs; apple, similar to diamonds, but with a lower-sitting stomach – also know as oval-shaped; hourglass, with equal upper and lower halves with well-defined waists.

• Know your measurements! Measure the parts of your body that most define your shape: your hips, shoulders, waist and bust. Wear underwear (but not shapewear) when measuring hips, and wrap the tape around the fullest part of your hips and butt for the most accurate measurement. Don’t tug too tightly or loosely when measuring; the number in the center front is your hip size.
To measure shoulders, keep your back straight and your shoulders relaxed, and extend the tape from the outer edge of one shoulder to the outer edge of the other.

To measure your waist, bend forward and note where your body creases – that’s where to measure.

For bust, wear a top without a bra, which often alters measurements. Wrap the tape across your back and under your shoulder blades and arms – and around the fullest part of your breasts.

• Own your plus-size, petite or tall body. You’ve probably heard the statement, “Real women have curves.” Yes, they do, but there are also real women with smaller busts; long and lean women, and some built like the ancient fertility goddess statues. All of us are “real.”

One tip for plus-sized women: highlight your assets — shapely legs and well-toned arms are meant to be flaunted. Petite women: Opt for pieces that come in naturally shorter lengths, such as cigarette pants, knee-length or higher skirts and three-quarter and shorter sleeve tops and jackets. Showing more skin will make your limbs look longer. Tall women: Wear high heels if you want to — just because you’re taller doesn’t mean they’re off limits.

About Ashley Martini

Ashley Martini, styling consultant and founding member of Martini Fashions, LLC, discreetly assists both men and women in unearthing and exhibiting their inner beauty through style, fashion and the top trends. Ashley is the author of the new book on style, “Styletini,” (www.ashleymartini.com). A business graduate of Lynn University, she specialized in fashion marketing and merchandising. She also completed her master’s degree in business with a focus on international business, and studied abroad in the world’s fashion capital, Paris, with a concentration in fashion styling and trend forecasting. She worked as a styling intern with Jennifer Lopez’s fashion company Sweetface/JustSweet/JLO, and earned numerous fashion awards.

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National Wear Your Lilly Day – June 21st First Day of Summer

Lilly Pulitzer®, the authentic resort fashion brand owned by Oxford Industries, Inc., (NYSE:OXM), is thrilled to celebrate the long-awaited first day of summer, June 21st, aka National Wear Your Lilly Day in a bigger way than ever before. Never needing a cause for celebration, Lilly Lovers will toast their lighthearted lifestyle and the sunny days to come in their favorite Lilly pieces.

 

Summer is bolder and brighter and in the world of fashion, Lilly is THE resort brand to fulfill those requirements. The perfect answer to a jet-set lifestyle inspired by their Palm Beach roots, the Lilly world is filled with bright colors and wild prints. Whether you’re at a pool-side soiree, weekend wedding or burying your toes in the sand, Lilly Pulitzer’s classic chic styles and personality-filled prints are always bound to kick your summer into high gear.

 

Lilly will also be spreading the celebration on June 21st in-store, online, and via their social media platforms. Just like Lilly opened stores wherever she had friends, on National Wear Your Lilly Day you will find well-known friends of the brand painting your Instagram feed in colorful prints and sunny illustrations custom made by the Lilly Print Studio. Taking the social media a step further, this summer Lilly is innovating with a user-generated content gallery via Offerpop Commerce that turns the hashtag #summerinlilly into a shoppable feed from bright & stylish Lilly Girls.

 

Finally, Lilly Pulitzer retail and signature stores will be partying Saturday, June 21st with music, sips & sweets, giveaways and much more!

 

Shop the Summer Collection at www.lillypulitzer.com so you are ready for the First Day of Summer!

 

 

Statement Necklaces: Wardrobe Must Have

I am a huge fan of wearing statement necklaces. The right necklace can transform an entire look and can be worn with a variety of clothing items.  Fashion girls can purchase this accessory from a number of retailers either online (my personal favorite) or in a department store.  No matter what’s your preference anyone can find a necklace that suits her individual style.  Whether it’s a basic tee shirt or elegant dress, this fashion accessory is a wardrobe must have!

 

 

 

On The Run Tour: What Do We Wear Part I

After feasting our eyes on the “On the Run” tour trailer, we were left speechless by the fantastic outfits, dramatic plot twists and the 1st Class cast. When we finally regained our senses, our 1st question was,“what do we wear to one of the most highly anticipated tours of the summer?”

 

To answer that question we created a Mr. & Mrs. Carter approved style guide with some of our favorite pieces. Tap into your inner Yoncé by whipping out your freak em’ trousers, then turn it up like the Queen B by tossing on a soft, figure flattering blouse. For the guys, feel free to cop some of Jigga’s swagger in a black ensemble with eye catching accessories. Then, the only thing you’ll be on the run from are all your new admirers.

 

1. A.L.C. Fremont crochet cropped blouse, $340; 2. Vintage Chanel Gold And Black Premiere Watch $1,370.00; 3.House of Holland Soft Leather Trousers, $826.29; 4.Vintage Chanel Gold And Silver Two-Tone Earrings, $680.00; 5. High Heel Strappy Sandals, $60.00; 6.Zara BOX MINAUDIÉRE, $99.90; 7.Alexander McQueen Skull Embroidered Cotton Sweatshirt, $1,217.93;8.Ballon Bleu de Cartier watch, 42 mm, $20,700; 9.Rick Owens Silk Organza Overlay Trousers $965.94; 10.Rich Kids VIP Flat-Peak Cap, $244.51; 11.Givenchy Classic Matte White High Top Sneaker, $$1,155.75; 12.David Yurman Single-Row Rondelle Beaded Bracelet, $395.00

 

Dress Your Best to Meet the Parents: Fashionable, Chic, and Classy

The holidays – like Thanksgiving –  are a stressful time for ladies who will be meeting their man’s parents for the first time.  You must find the perfect look to impress his mom and sisters — one that’s fashionable, chic and classy.

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STEP 1: DO YOUR RESEARCH

No one will be a better judge of the in-law’s judgment than your significant other. Ask him what his moms and sister’s fashion sense is. Check out Facebook photos from past holidays. If they look like East Coast Blue Bloods, dress conservative. If they’re total ex-Berkeley activists, try hippie chic and go vintage.

STEP 2: PACK FOR EVERY OCCASION
Bring one flowery dinner outfit, one semi-sexy outfit for a night on the town with your guy, and one laid back combo for that Sunday morning stroll with his mom. Tiny skirts are best left at home – because you don’t want them to think you’re Miley’s doppelganger – and don’t channel Lady Gaga with uncomfortable fashion ensembles that will just make Granny give you side eye.

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STEP 3: BRING THE WHOLE KIT & KABOODLE
Pack tons of great accessories, especially a statement necklace to glam up any normal outfit. Stella & Dot pieces, for example, can enrich any holiday outfit.

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STEP 4: CHECK IN WITH YOUR FRIENDS
We know you can’t bring your fashionable friends that weekend to help you find your perfect outfit. But you can send them your fashion selfies and ask them for advice. Postelio is the perfect app to quickly and discreetly ask your friends for fashion advice.

About Postelio

Founded in 2012, Postelio (www.postelio.com) allows you to quickly ask friends and family for opinions on the items you like while out making purchases – all through your phone. You can also check out what is trending around you, follow your favorite stores, get top deals, and even earn points that you can redeem for cash or rewards. The platform enables you to quickly reach key friends and family at shopping decision-making times and fashion emergencies. While shopping at our retail partners, you receive deals as you visit the store, helping shopper get great deals, and helping  retailers. Postelio’s first iPhone app was launched in August 2013 and the android app was launched in October 2013.

From the Office to Happy Hour: Transitioning to a Professional Wardrobe Tips

Building a professional wardrobe that’s affordable and timeless can be a difficult task but purchasing the right pieces can also be an investment.

Very often, your career will dictate a variety of social affairs such as attending an office meeting, company picnic, or even a happy hour.

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To help us transition from the desk to a night out with our colleagues, I’ve provided a few dress options below for inspiration. The options shown take into consideration an individual’s personal style, figure type, and office setting.

Most importantly, one suggestion that I always recommend (to those seeking to build a professional wardrobe) is to shop a variety of brands that will help pull together the right professional wardrobe.

Transitioning to a Professional Wardrobe Tips

 

1. Pencil Skirt, Clutch Bag, and Stud Earrings

Professional Dress Tips

2. Peplum Top, Stilleto Pumps, Pearl Necklace

Professional Dress Tips #2

 

 

3. Large Cuff Bracelet, Leather Dress, and Red Black Lipstick
 

Professional Dress Tip #3

 

 

4. Nude Nail Polish, Hoop Earrings, Tux Blazer

Professional Dress Tips #4

{REPOST} Dressing for a Fashion Event 101

To support the fashion industry in the state of Maryland, I will be attending Baltimore Fashion Week 2012. Although it’s exciting to see what each designer has to offer, there’s always a question of, “What should I wear to a fashion show or how should I dress?”

Whether it’s Mercedes Benz Fashion Week or you’re attending Fashion’s Night Out, most participants want to look sleek, chic, and pulled together.   And it doesn’t hurt to try a new trend or wear something that’s created by the designer.

But, if you want to make a statement, keep in mind (when shopping) what’s your personal style.  Below I have created some style inspiration for attending a fashion event!

 Dressing For A Fashion Event 101:

1.   Support the Designer (if you can) and wear something from a previous collection.

2.  Seek to look casual and chic.  For example, wear a pair of well fit slacks and blazer; a sheath dress with pumps; or jumpsuit with bold accessories.

3.  Take into consideration the time and season of the event. Most shows happen early fall, mid winter, and early spring.

4.  Carry an oversized bag or clutch for your camera, notebook, e tablet, or any other important accessories.

5.  If you’re walking to a variety of shows, parties, or boutiques keep a pair of flats in your purse.  Nothing is worth having foot pain at the end of the night!

 

FASHION EVENT INSPIRATION

 

 

The Show #1

Sequin top
$31 – newlook.com

H m blazer
$47 – hm.com

Valentino tech accessory
$610 – colette.fr

 

The Show #2

Talbot Runhof classic black dress
$2,590 – veryeickhoff.com

Stacking bangle
$18 – diva.net.au

Ellis Faas lip makeup
$35 – liberty.co.uk

The Show #3

 

 

The Editor’s Look for BFW 2012

 

Dress: bebe| Speedy Damier Handbag and Charm: Louis Vuitton | Shoes: bebe

also visit: Pinterest.com

Weddings: What Should I Wear?

With so many weddings approaching, women everywhere are asking themselves, “what should I wear to this wedding?”  And this is a common question because you want to look elegant without appearing as if you’re apart of the bridal party.  Clearly, there is a fine line between wearing a cocktail dress and a sequin gown.

But most importantly, you also want to follow those “timeless” guidelines such as not wearing white (obviously the conservative bride will wear white) and don’t wear black (if it’s not a request from the bride and groom.)

Lastly, one must also take into consideration the time of the day when searching for attire.  Short dresses can be worn for informal/semi formal daytime weddings.  But if the wedding is in the evening, generally it’s considered formal, as well as black tie or even white tie, long dress can be worn with extra glamorous accessories.

Either way, finding something to wear to a wedding can be lots of fun and a great excuse to dress up!

  

PERFECT WEDDING ATTIRE 

 

Wedding Bliss Part 1

Warehouse summer mini dress
$81 – johnlewis.com

Lipsy metallic sandals
$51 – lipsy.co.uk

 

Wedding Bliss Part 2

 

Wedding Bliss Part 3

AX Paris party dress
$47 – axparis.co.uk

Yves saint laurent lipstick
bloomingdales.com

 

Happily Ever After Shoes

Platform shoes
celebboutique.com

Wide shoes
$34 – clothingattesco.com

L.K.Bennett strappy sandals
$195 – lkbennett.com