Fashion Friday: Winter Workout Wear

It that time of year when we start thinking about getting in shape.  No, really, this is the year we're gonna do it!  Welll...if you're gonna start in January, you're going to need some gear that will keep you warm, 

First, you need a long sleeve shirt that will wick away sweat and regulate your body temperature.  There are a lot of different brands out there, and they don't come cheap.  $40-60 is a standard price.  This one is from Asics. 

Next, you'll need some pants, right?  Now, you can wear your sweatpants, but beware.  The wind will whip right through them.  Nooo, what you're gonna want is some thermal wind-resistant pants.  These are from Mizuno and run about $85.  While I'd love to have a pair of these, I layer workout leggings under a pair of fitted sweatpants. 

If you're a chicky-babe, you understand the need for a good bra.  Working out is no exception!  If you have smaller breasts, you can find a good sports bra many places.  When you have a fuller bust, it's more difficult.  This bra is from Nike and comes in sizes up to 3X!

Now, you'll also need a jacket.  No one wants to exercise in their big, bulky, heavy coat.  No, you want something that's going to keep you warm without getting in the way.  And, you want something that will regulate the temperature so you don't get too hot.  This half zip is awesome for that!  I wear a polar fleece jacket that's somewhat fitted to my body. 

Of course, you need a good pair of shoes.  This is a place that you don;t really want to scrimp, but that's not to say that the most expensive shoes are the ones that are right for you.  Good shoes will last you a long time.  Personally, I like a pair of cross-trainers, as I like the way they support my foot.  I have a pair that are very similar to the ones shown above that I'm getting ready to retire after 3 1/2 years.   These are from Asics and run around $70. 


Other items you may want include an ear warmer headband, gloves, and, depending on how cold it gets where you are, possibly a hat.

Fashion Friday: Scrubs Have Style

Scrubs have come a long way, baby!  My dad worked at a hospital and always wore scrubs.  They were just plain in whatever color the hospital was using at the time.  Sometimes blue, sometimes green or burnt orange scrubs.  Never with any real fit or style to them.  

My my my, how times have changed.  I noticed while at the Dr’s office one day that the gals all had super-stylish scrubs on.  One even had a cotton knit top that looked like something I would wear to work!  And they came in modern colors like red, turquoise, even black.  I was quite impressed. 

If you’d like to see some of the new styles of scrubs, check out http://www.blueskyscrubs.com/categories/Scrubs/Scrubs-for-Women/Original-Scrubs/

brought to you by your friends at Blue Sky Scrubs

Fashion Friday: Tights

I think socks and tights are a fun way to dress up a boring outfit.   Do you have to wear a uniform to work and want to add your own personality?  How about the dress that fits perfectly, but is totally plain? Some of my favorites: 

Flower Tights.  via

Tattoo Tights

Cable Tights

Fashion Friday: Ways to Wear Scarves

Here's a roundup of fantastic ways to wear scarves!

via

The Kelly.

I am particularly fond of this with a pair of oversized sunglasses. Especially when I'm feeling dramatic. Or dramatique!

Scarf Style Needed: Square Scarf.  Use an Oblong/Rectangular scarf for added drama

Tying the Scarf:

Take the square scarf and fold it diagonally from one corner to its opposite. Place the scarf over the head with the folded edge facing forward. Bring the folded corners down under the chin and cross them, pushing the points back around the neck on each side.

In the back of the neck, gather the folded corners and tie them together, making sure to catch the loose corners of the scarf under the knot being formed. Leave the ends loose, or tuck them under as you prefer. Add a pair of tortoise-shell sunglasses and you'll be ready to slip past the paparazzi.

Fashion Friday: Sweater Dresses

I love a good sweater.  I'm not super fond of wearing a jacket unless I'm going to be outside for a while (like apple picking) or it's really cold.  I find a sweater keeps me toasty-warm but not too hot. 

Pink Rose Dress V-Neck Cable 

How great is this sweater mini dress?  A great cut that is so flattering to most body types.  I especially like the cable knit pattern.   While I'm digging the Teal, this sweater is also available in purple, brown, and a burnt orange.  The best part?  It's from Pink Rose, is available at Macy's, and really reasonably priced.  How reasonable, you ask.  Does $38 sound good to you?  It does to me.  Oh -  it's on sale right now for $24.99.  

Astrid Alpaca Minidress

Simply put, I adore Fair Isle and Intarsia knitting.  Sometimes, though, it can look a little ski lodge-y.  Sometimes, that's just not the look you're going for.   The Astrid dress is able to take fair isle knitting and make it totall modern, sophisticated, and dare I say - a little edgy.  This dress is handknit from delightfully soft undyed Alpaca yarns.  Swoon!  From Peruvian Connection.

Sweater Dress with Tucks

I love the line of this dress.  I like the way it falls from the bust, but isn't an empire waist.  The gold accent around the neckline seems to be just the right amount to be flattering but not fall over into tacky territory.  And, I have to admit - I dig the pockets.  I know they're not for everyone, but I like 'em.  From Roaman's. 

Striped Sweater Dress

I love this one.  I have a ridiculous affinity for stripes.  It's undeniable, and perhaps a bit of an obsession.  This dress is still really cute even if you don't love stripes like I do.  The flare of the skirt is fantastic.  That is one complaint I have about sweater dresses sometimes - I don't necessarily want it to be clingy everywhere.  I also really like that it looks like two pieces.  From Amanda Charles.

Cross Back dress

This is more of a tunic, as you'd definitely need some bottoms.  I love the detailing in the back.  However - I think this would be really cute with some jeans and maybe a thin long sleeve top underneath.  You could wear it as-is when the weather warms up, too.  Great for casual date nights or being cute while running errands.  From Charlotte Russe. 



 

Fashion Friday: Mens Jeans

We lady bloggers don't seem to write a whole lot of posts for the fellas.  I guess it's because we're used to our audience just being us girls.  Well, the boys like to look good, too.  Or so I've been told by a couple guy friends.It's all about mens jeans. 

 

Boot Cut


These are a great jean for so many guys.  Wear them casually with a good tee.  Dress it up with a nice shirt or sweater.  The boot cut is pretty flattering, the color is a great classic, and the distressing gives these a fantastic worn-in look without the months or years of breaking in!  These are from 7 for All Mankind and run about $200. 

Cords

Personally, I love cords.  I like the velvety softness of them.  These are great to mix it up a little, so it's not all denim, all the time.  This pair is a slim fit, which, admittedly, isn't for everyone.  Levi's 511s have a vintage wash treatment, too.  About $58.

Straight Leg

I think a Straight leg in a dark wash is a universally flattering style.  Good for chicks, good for dudes, good for everyone.  These are a classic zip fly jeans.  This particular pair is from Levis and made in the USA.  $178. 

Chinos

While not really jeans, they are an important part of a man's pant arsenal.  These are from Banana Republic and normally run close to $80.  They're currently on sale for $25! 


 
Okay, I admit it,  This was partially just for some eye candy, too. 

$100 Dulce Mio Gift Certificate - Fall Fashionista Giveaway

It's here! It's finally here!! Fall Fashionista is in full effect. I'm giving away a $100 (US) gift certificate to Dulce Mio.

Fashion Friday: Boots

I love boots. They're so versatile! Wear them with skirts, pants, dresses, leggings (gasp!) Sometimes you can even wear them with shorts.

Knee High Boots

I have always wanted a pair of over-the-knee boots. I mean, since I was 9 or so. Maybe it was when I watched Pretty Woman, I don't know.  These are from Stuart Weitzman and are as much as my rent. Eeek! I do love the fact that they're flats. We need more stylish flats!

 Low Cowboy Boots

 How cute are these?  Studded and like a cross between a cowboy boot and a motorcycle boot.  Fantastic for those who might be a little ample in the calf area, not that I would know anything about that.  Nope, not me.  ;) From Kenneth Cole and verrrry reasonably priced!  I've seen them online priced as low as $40.  These are year-round boots.

Rain Boots

Until I moved to the Pacific Northwest, I never really understood why people had rain boots.  Then I got Wellie fever.  Once I moved to the Midwest, I understood the need for insulated rain boots.

I think these are adorable!  Better yet, it's a DIY!  And inexpensive! 

Shoeties

They're like shoes but kinda like booties.  They're shoeties!  Less than an ankle boot, more than a pump.  Fabulous with pants!  These are from Dillards. 

Ankle Boots

Sooo many styles, so little time.  How fun are these?  I like a fun, crazy shoe though, so I am in no way impartial!  I would guess that a full 1/3 of my shoes have pattern to them.  These are around $80 from The Gap. 

And a bonus!

Fashion Friday: StyleFind

Have you heard about StyleFind? StyleFind is a great site that allows you to find great items from all over the web.

Is there a new trend that you've seen and love? Take, for example, Navajo. The editors of StyleFind have put together a collection of great items. Want to explore Navajo more? Just do a search!

Or maybe you need some help determining your best jeans for the fall. StyleFind's editors have put together collections based on body type to help you find the jeans you'll want to live in. Not quite sure what your body type is? There's a handy-dandy quiz for that!

StyleFind isn't just fashion though! Oh no. They also have beauty and accessories! Items are broken down into just about any category you want and the search engine is crazy powerful! This is a search I did for mineral:

It got cut off, but there's 106 pages of mineral makeup and related items. 106 pages!!


One complaint that I do have about StyleFind is that they seem to only pull their items from the big sites (Anthropologie, Zappos, Piperlime, Ulta, etc.) While there are sites & brands I wasn't familiar with, I was hoping to find a lot more of the indie lines and sites that could really use a boost by being included in a site like this.

I participated in this campaign as part of the BzzAgent campaign.

Fashion Friday: Nail Polish

I love nail polish. Like, I seriously looooooove nail polish. Among the many reasons that I like it so much is that nail polish is an inexpensive, fairly quick pick me up. You can pick up a bottle for a couple dollars or you can go have a manicure an treat yourself to some pampering.

Blaze Nail Polish

Remember those Hypercolor clothes that changed color in the sun? Well, this nail polish does the same thing.  Some are a subtle change - pink to a darker pink or purple, while some shades change from blue to green! Cray-cray! $12.95 each.

Essie In The Bag Collection

I know. These have been out for a little while, but it's a great collection for people that need to be a little more conservative in their choice of makeup.  A gorgeous collection of shades that could be used year-round.  $8 each.

Nail Polish Strips

There are quite a few of these out there currently.  Sally Hanson has a line, as does Avon.  So does Sephora. I haven't  tried these, mainly because I don't think picking them up when I'm out and about.  Maybe I'll need to plan to do so!

DIY Fun Times

DIY Nail Decal

Mix Your Own Shades

Fun designs

Fashion Friday - Animal Prints

I have to admit it - I have always loved animal print. Ever since I can remember, I've always had some accessory or piece of clothing that was animal - even when it wasn't in vogue. Zebra shoes, a pony satchel, a cheetah big shirt...it was like a menagerie in my closet.


Here are some way to inject animal into your wardrobe.

Tyler Satchel

 

A cute bag at a ridiculously low price.  Under $25 from Payless Shoes.

Zebra Hair Cowboy Boots

Oh my!  I have to admit - these are calling my name!  A bit pricey for a trend, but Ariat makes boots to last.  I particularly like the turquoise lining and piping.  From Ariat.  

Leopard Penny Loafers

Penny loafers are back for fall.  You know the old saying 2 trends, one shoe.  Or something like that.  From Aerosoles, so you know these are ridiculously comfortable too. 

Bold Animal Print Ring

A great statement piece.  Fun, flirty. and a weapon if need be!  From QVC and under $20.

 Zebra Trench Coat

Totally wild and unexpected.  Of course, for around $60 for a coat, you can afford to be uber-playful! 

Fashion Friday: A-Line Skirts

A-line skirts are so cute and flattering on almost all body types.  They're great for running around in summer, for both work and errands.  Pair them with tights and an A-Line Skirt will take you into fall. 

Women's Plus Size Eyelet A-line Skirt

This is a great basic piece - with a twist!  A navy blue A-line skirt made of eyelet.  Perfect for the summer into fall transition.  The eyelet pattern is subtle, so it's not too casual for the office.  I'd pair this one with a solid color tight.  From Land's End. 

Green Tweed Mini Skirt

For the more daring, this mini skirt is super adorable!  Now, I could never wear it, as I am of the thunder thigh tribe, but there are lots out there that could.  Pair it with heavy tights or even leggings.   By Tibi. 

Menswear Inspired Tweed A-Line Skirt

Another fantastic basic for Fall.  Dress it up, dress it down.  Wear with a white button down for a menswear inspired look.  Pair with a jewel-tone blouse for a bold pop of color.  Match it with a bodysuit and pile on the jewelry.  It's all good! 

Dizzie Plaid A-Line Skirt

Super casual and perfect for weekends.  It looks a lot like shorts, but it's a skirt.  This would be great for running errands or going to the Farmer's Market.  Organic cotton and reasonably priced at under $25 too!  From Horny Toad. 

White BadaBing A-Line Skirt

A fun print in a great cut.  A little bit longer, a little swingier.  A whole lot of cute.  Great for everyone from moms to pinups.  From indie brand Heartbreaker.  Under $50 & made in the USA.

Fashion Friday: Caftans

I know, I know.  Caftans?  Are you crazy?  Honestly, I had the same reaction!  I was totally like "NO way am I gonna be caught out in a caftan!" These aren't your mama's (or grandma) caftans, though.  They're cute, and dare I say it, kind of hot. 

Iconic Sequined Caftan - Sir Alistair Rai

Silk. Sequins.  Great new, neutral color.  

I'd pair this with skinny jeans or leggings.  Maybe a wide or skinny belt, too, to change up the line.

Tallulah Print Caftan - Roberto Cavalli

Love love love this!   Floaty sleeves with a flattering boat neck.  It has a self tie belt for some shape definition.  And the print, oh the print.  It's to die for!  If not for the price tag, this would be my go-to piece for the fall.  And winter.  And probably spring, too.  

Now, I know what you're saying.  Greta, I don't have $700 to spend on a top or $200 for a dress.  Neither do I!   There's great choices under $50, too. 

DG2 Ikat Print Linen Caftan

Take Ikat, linen, bright colors, and beading and you have a good thing.  Add in the fact that it's $50?  You have a great thing!  Available at HSN.com in sizes from XS to 3X. 

 

Green Floral Top - Old Navy

Another winner.  We all know Old Navy - inexpensive, pretty decent clothes, on-trend styles.  Almost everyone has one close by.  You can throw this in the washer and dryer.  Dress it down for running errands or work, dress it up for date night. 

Bisou Bisou Chiffon Batwing Dress

 

Floaty chiffon with smocking at the waist gives definition while the bold, vertical pattern elongates and slims.  And it has paisley.  Paisley!!  From JC Penney and around $50 on the website.  Stores may have it cheaper and there's a ton of coupons out right now for an even better deal!

Fashion Friday: Shoes

There are certain styles of shoes every girl should have. Of course there's the black pump, a good athletic shoe, casual sandals - like flip flops, nice sandals and a pair of clogs. But there's others, too!

Stilettos

Every girl needs a pair of super sexy stiletttos.  These Badgley Mischka shoes add a fun pop of color, but are still fairly neutral in both color and style.  A fantastic secondary basic.  

Mules

Mules are a great alternative to boots or clogs.   Great with jeans and a fun pair of socks on cold days or  casual skirts.  Born has several cute styles in their line. 

Boots

Where do we even start with boots?  Cowboy boots, motorcycle boots, riding boots, booties, the list goes on and on.  Madden Girl Boots has many of the styles covered, but these are one of my favorites.  Western styling with a bit of city styling.  Cute with skirts, leggings, jeans, even cutoffs in the summer.  

Storage

You can keep your shoes on the floor in your closet, but soon you run out of room.  You can get one of those plastic over the door shoe organizers, but...really?  C'mon.  No.  Your shoes deserve a fantastic place to hang out!  Some place like a wonderful shoe cabinet!  This one almost looks like a wine cabinet.  There's a style to fit every decor from huge glass cases to small stackable units. Plus, a shoe cabinet keeps shoes neat and organized.