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Doing The Dressing Down

I think I missed a week of posting.  To be honest, everything is running together, and I can hardly remember what day of the week it is.  I'm hoping that once school falls into a normal schedule, I can get back on track, but for now, I'm doing what I can.  So sorry!

Over the past two and a half weeks of starting back to school, I have discovered that a big fashion problem is those "dressing down" days.  Now, I know we all have them.  That's just part of the university life, right? But there is a right and wrong way to dress down.  I promise you can still look cute in that t-shirt and ponytail!

Here's the deal, when you're having on of those mornings (woke up late, forgot to iron the night before, had to pull and all nighted...), even though you just rolled out of bed to make it to class on time, there is still hope!  You don't have to look like you probably feel.  I've taken notes on my own personal tips to make it easier for you to get ready in a hurry and not look like last night was spent writing a paper.

T-shirt rule number 1:  Tuck it in, and wear a belt.  Let me put it this way, too... Do not tuck in your shirt if you are not wearing a belt.  That's doesn't look polished or finished and it's not generally flattering.  But it you want to make that old t-shirt look more professional, tuck it in.  Pick a cute belt (obviously equally as effortless as any other), but it can dress the outfit up even just a bit.

T-shirt rule number 2:  Wear show stopping shoes.  Old grey t-shirt?  Wear brightly colored Vans or Converse.  Rocking the tie-dye v-neck?  Throw on some studded flats.  Make it work.  Shoes can draw the eye, so nobody will notice your otherwise drab feeling attire.  Don't worry about walking around in heels all day with tired feet after a sleepless night.  Comfort can still be cute and close to the ground. ;)

T-shirt rule number 3:  Don the jewelry.  Grab some sparkling earrings or stack on some bracelets.  Even a classy or stand-out ring can make an outfit more interesting.  Pearls are my absolute favorite, and I am a firm believer that they can be worked into any outfit, even the t-shirt and jeans. Be it a bracelet or simple necklace, pearls bring instant class to any clothing.

T-shirt rule number 4:  Use small embellishments.  You may not have time to fix your hair into more than a ponytail, but try adding a ribbon or studded bobby pins.  Even little details can make a big difference.

T-shirt rule number 5:  Trade in the classic blue jeans.  Wear brightly colored or patterned jeans to mix up the monotony.  Classic jeans have their place in our wardrobes for sure, but on those bad mornings, it's just as easy to pull out a fun pair of jeans to mix up the style.  You'll feel better in them, too!  Whether you stick to the classic blue or try some funky pants, when it's hot out, cuff the bottom to give a trendy, hot weather friendly flair.

-K

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Hot days and chilly nights are typical of fall weather.  Knock the edge of the cold with a long sleeved dress, so you can stay cool and not need a jacket.  Play around with the color palette.  Mix shades and throw in complementary colors for accent.  Pearls and gems always add class to an outfit, especially if the occasion is too casual for dressing up.

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PSA: Save your hair and skin! (Part 2)

We all love our makeup.  We all love soft skin.  We all love treating ourselves to spa day.

Here's the deal:  sometimes, we do more harm than good.

Let me explain...

Harsh chemicals and greasy formulas make our skin suffer.  It's not natural.  Our skin loves natural!  If you look at your bottles and containers of makeup and beauty supplies, you'll notice a long list of words that look hard to pronounce and don't seem to have much meaning.  Those are chemicals.  While they can temporarily enhance our beauty, in the long run, they can do damage.  So what's the best way to stay gorgeous and avoid the bad stuff?

Go natural!  Look for brands like Bert's Bees and Yes To that are known for their natural products.  Organic-based is always best, when available.  Try to do some label reading and see how many ingredients you can actually understand.  You want to know what you're putting on your face and body!  Also try substitutions.  My favorite is to use coconut oil instead of lotion.

Make your own.  Some quick googling will reveal tons of websites with recipes for natural, DIY cleansers, makeups, scrubs, and lotions.  There are plenty of options for those of you who might have allergies, especially to ingredients in common beauty products.  Cucumbers, bananas, coconut oil, and honey are among the most common ingredients.  Try one or a few that seem interesting, but if you don't like it, try a different one.  Maybe you can make up your own special recipe that works for you.  Not only is making your own products a healthier alternative, but it's much cheaper!  Beauty is pain, but beauty is also money.

Do a cleanse.  Just like last week with your hair, take a week to use no product.  No makeup.  *cringe*  I know.  It's crazy, right?  An entire week without makeup?  Yes.  You can do it!  We all have natural beauty and need to learn how to embrace it.  Makeup is supposed to be used only to enhance our facial features, but it isn't to change the way we look.  You don't need makeup.  It has become a crutch for so many of us, and we need to break that habit!  I have faith in you!

If you still absolutely can't stand the idea of giving up the old life, just try to do this:

Take your makeup off at night.  Nobody will see your face while you're sleeping, so it's not necessary.  Removing it gives your skin a chance to breathe and take a quick break from layers of foundation and powder.

Substitute just one of your beauty products.  Try making a face scrub instead of using the store bought stuff for a few days.  Just one thing at a time.  You might find you like the healthy alternative better and keep it.  If not, at least you tried.  Try something else if you decide to go back, or if you like it, try one more new thing.  Start out slow, but get out of your comfort zone a little bit.

Let me know how it goes!  What are your favorite DIY products?  What did you try?  What did you like or not like?  Everybody is different and has a different skin type.  What works for you?

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PSA: Save your hair and skin! (Part 1)

First of all, I must apologize for getting this post up a day late!  I moved into my dorm yesterday, and everything was super crazy!!!

Juice cleanses are a growing fad that I have yet to try, but I think we could all do ourselves a favor and try a hair cleanse.  A while back, my mom was working on my baby book, and there was a lock of hair that I had cut myself as a youngster.  It was the softest piece of hair I had ever felt.  Ever.  So I asked my mother what had changed.  My hair didn’t feel like that anymore!!

All she had to say was “product”.

So from that moment, I put away the hairspray and heat.  My hair takes forever to curl anyway, so my curling iron wasn’t really a necessity, and I don’t have to straighten my hair.  That part was easy.  The hairspray had to go.  I found ways to make my hair stay put by styling instead of chemicals.  It’s been maybe three years now, and my hair is still so much healthier than it was before I called it quits on chemicals.  I have never colored my hair, but those chemicals dry hair out and are not healthy for it.

Here’s what I propose:

For one week—just one—stop using chemicals (hairspray, coloring, etc.) and go all natural.  Put down the appliances that fry your hair like straighteners and curling irons (hair dryers are okay).  Just do it.  It’ll be hard at first.  You might suffer withdrawals, and styling your hair will be different.  Try it.  If after one week (or maybe try two!), see what the difference is in how your hair feels.  You might find it’s worth putting the “fancy” (and expensive!) chemicals and heat away.  Embrace your natural hair.

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This season is infused with military and rocker influence! Go for green with a bold colored jean in the trendy shade. Black makes for the perfect accents, but go a bit edgier with the metal tipped collar and gold chained flats. The Clubmasters provide the perfect classy accent and continue the metallic gold theme. I am in love with chestnut colored accessories like bags and shoes! This large cross body bag is perfect for stashing all your necessities for day time; just switch to a smaller bag or clutch to go straight to the night scene (and throw some heels in there too ;). Studs are an amazing accent this season, and I love the nude colored studded headband to keep the edgy going from head to toe. A mix of colored and metallic jewelry makes the outfit more interesting, and pearls provide the perfect girly and preppy accent without being out of place.

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A Sneak Peek at Fall 2013

One of my dear readers has already asked me for intel on what will be hottest this fall.  I know many of you are primed for shopping ahead--September and all its glory will be here soon!  After a close examination of the runways, I'm here to tell you all the wonderful things I have spotted so you know what to be looking for ;) Prepare yourselves...

I want to give fair warning before any of you don the print of the season:  this style must be worn tactfully because it walks the fine like between tacky and tasteful.  Be tasteful.  Now, if that is perfectly clear for you, read on...

The print of this season is leopard print!  Appearing on everything, from dresses to bags to jewelry, a feline frenzy has broken out across the fashion world.  Perhaps my biggest heed, however, is that leopard on shoes can so very easily look cheap (panic!), and that is never ever ever the desired look.  When in doubt, wear something else.  I am by no means discouraging wearing leopard print--I couldn't be more excited that it's landed back in.  Be daring, be bold, be careful.

The military look was huge last year, and it hasn't stopped yet!  I still love my inspired boots and can't wait to break them out again.  The style has changed a bit though.  Infused with edgy, rock-n-roll vibes, the military cut of jackets and dresses alike has now added leather and plaid.  Whether you prefer to stand out with colors or stay sleek and classic in black, let your inner rocker shine with this edgy fabric choice.  Plaid is an excellent pattern for color-popping with reds or greens, or you can layer it with other prints.  Studs can also amp up a preppy look to become more hard core.  Add them to jeans, bags, shoes, and jackets, or incorporate them into your jewelry.

One of my favorite plaid prints.

Michael Kors, $448

A favorite of mine this fall is riding boots.  Knee-high and classic, this footwear will keep you warm and dazzle onlookers.  Simple straps and buckles embellish this simple boot.  Pair them with jeans and a sweater or a cute dress and tights for an elegant touch on any outfit.

Marc Fisher, $169

The following fall 2013 trend is not for the faint of heart:  shine on shine.  This may be even more delicate than pulling off the leopard print, so again, approach with caution.  Metallics are totally cool and fun, so putting them together can make a very bold statement.  Explore mixing prints and matte fabric.

Marc Jacobs runway, Fall 2013

Color blocking became a huge style toward the end of the summer, but it hasn't stopped there.  Look for clothes with bright color blocking on neutrals for this fall.  Orange, green, and red seem to be among the favorites, but feel free to mix and match.  Throwing black or warm neutrals into the mix carries this trend from summer to fall without losing the drama.  Color blocking is fun enough to stand alone without looking drab, but it's simple enough that you can add in busier prints and color popping accessories (bags are the best--shoes are second) if you want more excitement in your outfit.

Calvin Klein, $128

The color palette this fall is coming in clear:  military green, grey, hunter orange, light rosy pinks, and white over cream (although both are acceptable).  While I am not a supporter of camo being worn in ordinary circumstances, the trend is inevitably making headway on the runways.  The colors are warm and very available for mixing as separates, but Readers, I will not be caught in camouflage.  Incorporate the green and orange with neutrals for the same effect without looking like a wild woman, and let the camo stay with our dashing military men as they use it purposefully.  Pink, be it leather or other, creates a playful balance of these hard, cold weather colors and can brighten any outfit.  However, go for accessories to avoid looking like you walked out of spring season.  If pink is your main costume color, be sure to balance it with the greens and greys to maintain seasonal appropriateness.  Grey is also standing out this fall.  While it can sometimes be mistaken for a drab color (or lack thereof), use it to your advantage to lighten an outfit where black would become the dark, go-to neutral.

Happy fall-prep shopping!

-K

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Quick Tip!

Use dark eye shadow as liner for a more natural look. My favorite is navy, but also experiment with colors like dark green and copper. To make application easier, use the edge of the little brush that comes with the eyeshadow to put a thin line next to your lashes. -K

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Coral is huge this season, probably because it goes so well with the main color of the summer--teal. However, in this color blocked dress, mint provides that bold color contrast to draw the eye. Purple accents prevent this outfit from becoming stuck on the color of the dress. A single bangle and rings add character. Cocktail rings are always a welcome addition. The lacy mint heels put a twist on the two trends. A khaki blazer, a staple closet piece, completes the preppy look.

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Keeping It Fresh

July might be coming to a close soon, but the summer is not!  This is the time of year when t-shirts are an easy go-to option, and the heat makes us fight for our (fashion) senses.  We all need a little reminder every now and then about keeping our style preppy and fun and still totally ready for all those summer activities.

My first word of advice is this:  if a piece of clothing does not fit perfectly, it won't look right.  You could find the absolute cutest clothes ever, but fit is everything.  Those "out there", risky pieces that can totally complete an outfit are so much easier to pull off if they actually fit your size and body type.  I know we don't like to hear it, but it must be said--if you have to buy a bigger size, just do it.  You will look a million times better than if you try to cram yourself into something 2 sizes too small just to make yourself feel better.  You're not fooling anyone, anyway.  Embrace yourself.

My I would like to say this:  make every piece of your outfit deliberate.  This includes coats, hats, and all those other underrated and forgotten about items that we generally use more for practicality than fashion.  Make a statement with them, too.  In fact, accessories can be the most statement pieces available and can so easily spice up an outfit.  It's all in the details, readers.

That being said, this season has some amazing styles that are so in, so fresh, and so wearable!

The shift dress is always in style.  This classic look can cater to any of the latest trends and is a staple item to keep in the closet.

www.reiss.com $256

This adorable dress may appear simple, but that is wear the beauty lies.  A polished look in itself, adding a few pieces of shiny jewelry and a pair of color popping pumps can take this dress to the next level (or 3!).  On the other hand, a pair of funky flats and big day bag makes this dress totally suitable for work or a day on the strip.  Shift dresses come in any color, pattern, and fabric imaginable, making them suitable for all tastes and personal styles.  The slightly loose fit flatters almost any body type, which is very important when buying new clothes.  Not every cut of clothes looks good on every body type.  Shift dresses generally don't gather at the waist like this one, but if yours does, make sure it hits the smallest part of your waist in order to accent it at the most flattering place.

This season, layers are a must!  And what better way than to put a twist on a super fun summer skirt?

www.forever21.com $14.80

Maxi skirts are an excellent way to stay cool in the summer heat and look fashionable at the same time!  The layered look makes this skirt a little edgy but still very playful.  Add a cropped top and some colorful wedges or strappy sandals to complete the beach-ready feel.

My favorite layered look has always been the blazer.  Suitable for dressing up or down in any season, a blazer jacket can complete any outfit and remedy cute base layers in cold weather.  Find a light weight fabric for the warmer months to stay cool and keep up the preppy school girl look.  If preppy is not your thing, blazers easily fit in with distressed jeans, an old band t-shirt, and combat boots, giving the outfit a simple, yet fashionable lift.

When skirts aren't practical, there is another option... shorts!  This season, go bold with stripes, florals, or neons.

Marc Jacobs $576

These head-turning shorts will wow everyone if worn right!  Try wearing them with chunky-soled sandals and a colorful, short-sleeved button up to put a new spin on casual.  Shorts are a very underestimated item of clothing.  Aside from the totally acceptable outrageous prints and colors available and encouraged for wear, take them to the next level with colored over-the-knee socks or tights.  For example, the Jacobs shorts pictured above could be worn with red legwear for the ultimate bold summer look.

And what about shoes, you may ask?  Readers, my favorite of this season are wide-strapped sandals.  They've covered the catwalks and sidewalks in fabulous footwear.

Calvin Klein (Lorianne) $119

This pair has been my favorite so far--if only they had my size (8.5!) when I was shopping a few days ago!! :'( The light neutral colors make this sandal perfect for the summer months.  Flatforms are excellent for dressing up an outfit just a bit while still maintaining a wearable and somewhat practical shoe.  And for those of us lacking in much height, the few extra inches are an added bonus ;)  

Don't forget about my Friday feature on one stylish reader!  It could be you!  Check out the end of this post for more details...

http://bloguntamed.tumblr.com/post/55935631876/handling-that-summer-hair

-K

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An adorable look by Brittany C. at blondetothebone.tumblr.com, this outfit is perfect for a day out shopping with the girls or a lunch date with that cute guy ;) I love the ruffles, same but different, and contrasted in the shirt and flats. The shorts keeps it classic with a crisp, clean white and extra exterior buttons for detailing. Nude colored shoes are always a necessity as a go-to for those out-the-door outfits because they match everything. The fishtail braid is simple and quick, yet totally stylish. Neutral eye makeup is totally in the summer. It provides a natural, beach-ready feel, while adding than understated shine to bring out the eyes. Go easy on the liner, ladies! The top is by Agaci, shorts are Lei, and shoes by Steve Madden. Urban Decay Suspect makeup completes the look. Thank you, Brittany, for your submission! Keep inspiring the world with your summer fashions (: -K

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Fresh florals, crop tops, and pops of color are all the rage this season! Accessorize with statement pieces of jewelry. Metal, leather, and chains are an easy way to add a punk-rock edge to any posh outfit.

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Handling That Summer Hair

Long hours in the sun call for high maintenance on those lovely locks of hair we love.  This summer, my favorite (and totally adorable!) method of keeping up with my mane is braids!  Now, if we're truly honest with ourselves, the traditional French braid down the back of the head gets really old really fast.  And who doesn't love to mix it up a bit?! I know I do ;)

I'm a runner.  I work out a lot.  The best way to keep those bangs back when getting sweaty on those summer workouts is a cute side braid.  Just tightly French those wispy pieces to your hair line, and you're all set!

This can also be perfect for hiding those bangs you're trying to grow out.  We all know about that unavoidable awkward stage but never fear... Having those bangs just a bit longer makes them just that much easier to braid without the ends starting to stick out.  That can turn the sleek, classy look into a mess.

I discovered a favorite braid of mine one day just messing around with my very long hair.  Fortunately, I discovered a picture so that I might share it with all my lovely readers (:

This look can be elegant and dressy or messy and fun, depending on the destination.  Basically, the braid starts at the part and works its way down the side of the head, pulling pieces from the other side to make a disconnected French braid.  This is a super simple way to keep all that hair off your neck and face without suffering the routine ponytail.

The braid that I have used the most so far this summer is classy yet so simple and quick to do...

...a French braid around the bottom of the head.  This style can be worn with a trendy graphic tee and sneakers or a classic sundress and sandals.  It's all purpose and all fabulousness!  You can even tie it off at the base of the head and curl the ends or leave them in a low side ponytail (for all you lovelies with stick straight hair like me).

A style that I love love love to use when dressing up a bit is the waterfall braid.  It looks a little tricky at first, but with some practice, it's a snap to put together and look amazing!

It's probably easier for you to just do a bit of googling for specific how-to instructions than it is for me to try and explain it to you, so now you have homework... Learn the waterfall braid ;) In my experience, this braid is easier done with long hair, so I would love love love to see some waterfall braids done on short hair!  Send me pictures!!  I want to see how your hair experiments turn out, for better or worse... ;)

I've noticed Blake Lively's affinity for sticking random braids in her hairstyles, and I totally envy her flawless ability to do so.  I'm still working on it.  More times than not, it looks like a seven-year-old got a hold of my hair and practiced braiding.  (Can sever-year-olds even braid? I don't know...)  Anyway,

Here she is sporting a stunningly messy updo that is partially hidden from the camera (cry!), but we can still spot those summer-loving braids!  Pulling them into a bun or updo is an easy way to finish off the ends if you want to keep that hair up without a dangling braid.  The effortlessly messy look is so in, although some of us could use some practice on that windswept look.  There is a difference between messy and I-just-got-out-of-bed.  Please don't mix them up! :'(

Cute messy...

Bedhead...

I'm just going to assume we have that down now.

Now, as I mentioned before, buns can be the perfect way to finish off a braid.  Again, we come to the messy vs. classy competition.  The choice is yours...

This side bun completes the look of these braided bangs.  Obviously, this model is wearing some sort of formal attire, but that doesn't have to be the case for you.  And as promised...

A messier and definitely more casual look.  I, personally, love this so much!  But for some reason, whenever I try to French braid up the back of my head, it gets loose and bumpy, and I have to start over so many times that I just give up and go with one of my go-to's.  I really should persevere more for this twist-on-a-normal-back-of-the-head French braid, though.  I guess that will be my homework ;) Once you can get past the braid, the bun is no problem.  In all honesty, I've never actually worn a sock bun before, but I absolutely love them!  The slacking must stop for me.  My hair is suffering for it -- missing out on two cute styles put together!

And finally, for those days when everything else is just too much, I give you...

...the fishtail!  Perhaps one of the easiest things you could ever do with your hair, this braid can be worn with absolutely anything and look amazing and perfectly suitable.  I love it as an alternative to the regular braid... I feel like everyone wears that look out by age 12.  Sorry, not sorry.  You can mix it up a little when fishtailing by using big pieces of hair, small pieces, or both.  I prefer to mix it up to make it a big more edgy, but that's all based on personality.  Make any of these looks fit you and your style!

I specially requested photos of some waterfall braids on short hair earlier, but I want to see the impeccable fashion taste of all my readers, not just those with short hair (: So, each *probably* Friday (I'm still deciding the for sure day), I want to post one picture a week of an outfit that you guys (and gals!) send in.  Put your best shoe forward and flood my submissions box with what you love to wear!  Include a brief description of the occasion and/or outfit (brands would be a nice addition!), your name (I'll only post first names and last initials for privacy's sake...no worries), and where you're from.  I'll highlight your look in a blog post!

-K

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Hello, my name is...

For some time now, I have desired to run a blog, but never really had the motivation to create one and keep it up.  It does take quite the level of dedication.  However, here I am.  Finally.  Armed with years of studying fashion magazines (and staying up on my Gossip Girl), I offer my blog to inspire, create, and instruct.  Sit back & enjoy or contribute (please!!), and maybe we’ll all better prepare ourselves to take on the world, one pair of heels at a time.

A life of fashion is not easy.  To truly make a statement, one must put him or herself out in the open, available to receive praise or criticism.  Learn to take the bad with the good to make better.  Your clothes, healthy lifestyle habits, and all-around style should reflect who you are inside, promoting confidence and self-worth.  Dress how you would like to be treated.  Whether you like it or not, people judge based on first impressions before you ever say one word.

Make a good impression.

-K