THE SECRET TO GETTING DRESSED FASTER IN THE MORNING

You wanna know what sucks? Standing in front of your closet, in your underwear, with no idea what to wear. It’s probably one of the most frustrating ways to start the day. Wouldn’t it be awesome to eliminate that horror completely?

I have the answer, well actually I have two …

1.) Hire someone to pick out all of your outfits (me, me!)

OR

2.) Pre-style/pre-plan your looks!

Lets talk about method #2. This method rocks the house. Why? Because chances are you have a closet full of clothing that has endless styling possibilities but unless you make the time to do it, the blank closet stare will commence.

So how do you do it? I’ll tell you …

1.) GET INSPIRED

I am a huge fan of Pinterest, I’d venture to say that I am a Pinterest junkie. I created a board called My Style with outfits that inspire me. I am constantly filling the board and my mind with ideas on how to wear the other I already own differently.

2.) SCHEDULE SOME TIME

Next I pick one day a week to style my outfits. For me this is typically on a Sunday night before dinner around 5 or 6pm. When something is “on my calendar” it’s easier for me to stick with the task.

3.) STYLE AWAY

Every stylist has their own method but here is how I do it. I pick 5-6 star pieces that I’d like to wear to work that week and put them on a rack (you could clear a space away in your closer or lay the pieces on your bed). Then I start building around the star pieces. Maybe it’s a killer cardigan that acts as the star – then I’d pick out a skirt or a pair of jeans, a top, shoes, and a necklace. Bam! Outfit #1. I repeat this process until I have enough outfits for the week.

4.) FASHION SHOW!

While I’m at it, I try on my looks to make sure they look as good on as they do on the rack. Sure this step is a little time consuming but it can be fun AND you know that when you get dressed during the week there won’t be any surprises.

Do you pre-plan your outfits or “ain't nobody got time for that!” Let me know over on my Facebook page.

Marta Marques

by LAUREN MESSIAH

10 WAYS TO WEAR SHORT OVERALLS - WELCOME BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Last week I bought a pair of short overalls at Target and I’m kind of addicted. $27 well spent if you ask me and I plan on getting my moneys worth too 

1.) WITH A COOL SCARF BELT

10 points for creativity! Belting your short overalls will not only add style but waist definition too.

2.) WITH A FANCY BAG

Oh you fancy, huh? Add a fancy pants bag to your super casual look for the ultimate cool girl vibe.

3.) WITH BOOTS AND A CAPE

Super hero or super fashionable? Upgrade your short overalls with the dressiest stuff you got.

4.) WITH A SNAPPY HAT

Y’all know I love a hat.

5.) JUST ADD A WHITE TEE

Sometimes basics are best.

6.) WHAT ABOUT A BLAZER?

I love a blazer paired with short overalls. Unexpected and oh-s0 chic.

7.) TRY SOME TIGHTS

Not about showing your legs? Just add tights.

8.) BLOUSE IT UP

Keep it nice and classy with a blouse.

9.) TIE A LITTLE SOMETHING AROUND YOUR WAIST

Go low key yet stylish with a little something tied around your waist.

10.) WITH ONE STRAP DOWN

I know, I know 90s flashbacks but it is kinda awesome, right?

I love it all

I have to have 3 or 4 :)

Marta Marques

by LAUREN MESSIAH

STYLE TIPS FOR THE SWEATY

Sweating, it’s both nasty and natural. Good thing about sweating is that it’s good for your health. Worst part? It creates mad drama when it comes to getting dressed. From pit stains to deodorant stains – shizz is gross!

REMOVING DEODORANT STAINS

White deodorant stains are not cool, especially on black garments. My favorite tool of all time are these bad boys from Fashion First Aid called Skid Out: Deodorant Eraser. If you don’t feel like springing for this $6 tool, then snatch some of the foam that comes between the clips on pant hangers. Works like a dang charm.

GETTING RID OF GROSS YELLOW STAINS

OMG pit stains are the most un-cute thing of all time. Mix 1 part lemon juice and 1 part water into a spray bottle. Spritz thoroughly and then launder as usual. Pit stains will be toast.

AVOID THE WHOLE MESS ALTOGETHER

If you want avoid a sweaty mess altogether, then invest in some Garment Guards– also by Fashion First Aid. Stick these little guys directly on your shirt and all of the sweat will be absorbs on them and NOT on your clothes. Total win and total game changer.

WHY YOU CAN STOP TRYING ON YOUR PANTS!

Perhaps it’s the stylist in me, but I can’t stand trying on clothing at the store. I’d much rather try everything on in the comfort of my home without bad lighting, trick mirrors, and pushy salespeople. Sure, returning what doesn't work can be annoying but for me that’s nothing compared to the alternative.

One way to avoid standing in the return line is to purchase your correct size without ever having to try anything on.

Sounds too good to be true, doesn't it? Well it is good and it is true with this handy trick.

Check out the video below to find out how to tell if a pair of pants fits without even slipping them on.

 Enjoy the knowledge :)

by LAUREN MESSIAH on MARCH 19TH, 2015

  in FEATURED, STYLE HOW-TO'S

TAGS: how to, videos

THE 3 DENIM TRENDS YOU NEED THIS SEASON

This post was originally featured on Glam.com. 

photovia ejstyle.co.uk

Denim is arguably one of the most important pieces in everyone’s wardrobe. I mean, who doesn’t wear (and love) denim? This season there are some new denim trends that should absolutely be added to your wardrobe.

FLARES

After being shut out by skinny jeans for years, flares are finally back.  What I love about flares are they are figure flattering and they are totally on trend with the 70s style movement that was seen on the runways.

CULOTTES

Definitely not for everyone but culottes are attempting a comeback. Talk about a great way to show off your favorite shoes and to show that you are ahead of the curve.

DENIM SKIRTS

It’s been quite a while since I’ve busted out a denim skirt but this upcoming season that will definitely change. A-line denim skirts are a nice nod to the 70s and the cut is universally flattering, so everyone can enjoy this trend.

Will you try out these denim trends or would you rather play it safe with the denim trends you already know and love?

You have to try it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

MM

10 WAYS TO WEAR CULOTTES

Let me start by saying this … I do not plan on embracing this trend. The image of me + culottes just doesn’t seem like a good idea BUT it may be a good idea for someone else. So with that I give you, 10 ways to wear culottes.

1.) AS A SET

Make yourself a little culotte suit for spring. Bonus points for bold florals.

2.) IN JEWEL TONES

Make the ultimate statement in a pair of jewel toned culottes. I mean, if you are going to go big you may as well draw even more attention to yourself.

3.) GET MATCHY-MATCHY

Take the sting out this statement pant by going with a  more monochromatic look.

4.) WEAR THEM WITH BOOTS

Have a shorter pair of culottes? Cover up those stems with a pair of tall boots.

5.) SHOW A POP OF SKIN

Let your freak flag fly by showing a little peek of skin with your crazy culottes.

6.) WITH SANDALS

This trend is going to be huge for spring and you can’t have spring without some sandals.

7.) MINIMALISTIC

Keep things neutral with a minimalist palette of black and white.

8.) OR JUST WEAR ALL WHITE

Nothing says spring like an all white ensemble!

9.) PERHAPS PASTELS?

Soften up the look with some great pastel colors for spring.

10.) ADD SOME STATEMENT SHOES

Get all crazy on the bottom half of your body with a killer pair of statement shoes.

by LAUREN MESSIAH

10 WAYS TO WEAR A CAMEL COAT

 

Not gonna lie, I’m pretty much obsessed with camel coats. Problem is this … I don’t have one!! I fell in love with a camel coat on TheOutnet but sadly they didn’t have my size   So I am still on the hunt. In the meantime I will continue to be inspired by all of the other people in the world who own a beautiful camel coat.

If you are into the camel coat trend as well, then you’ll love these 10 ways to wear a camel coat.

1.) WITH RIPPED JEANS

Ripped up and ill-fitting jeans are suddenly chic with a camel coat. Dang, camel coats are pure magic!

2.) WITH A SKIRT

Just don’t forget the tights – especially this winter.

3.) WITH A SWEATER

Keep things extra warm and cozy with a sweater layered under that fancy coat.

4.) CLASSIC WHITE BUTTON UP

Its class all the way when you pair your camel coat with a white button up.

5.) JUST ADD SNEAKERS

Take things down a notch with a pair of worn-in classic sneakers like Converse or adidas shell toes.

6.) POP OF NEON

Who says camel has to be paired with other neutrals. Try adding a vibrant pop of color like a neon to shake things up a bit.

7.) NEEDS MORE CAMEL

Or just go full on camel instead.

8.) WITH A BRIGHT SHOE

Add a subtle pop of color with a shoe – the color choice is all yours.

9.) BET ON BLACK

You can’t go wrong with black.

10.) WITH A FUN SCARF

Perhaps the best accessory for a coat! Have a little fun with bold color or classic pattern like plaid.

by LAUREN MESSIAH

7 TOOLS YOU NEED TO GET DRESSED (TO LOOK PULLED TOGETHER)

For a lot of you this post is going to be a big old DUH but based on the work I’ve done with my clients this post is necessary.

Why?

Because putting on a great looking outfit is only step 1 in the process of looking great. There are a few simple (and some some very obvious) tools you need in your arsenal in order to look your very best.

Here we go …

1. FULL LENGTH MIRROR

I know, I know … bring on the eye rolls but you won’t believe the number of clients that I’ve worked with that don’t own a full length mirror. It’s crazy town. People, please get yourself a full length mirror and look into it before leaving the house. Seeing your complete outfit from head-to-toe is a non-negotiable.

2. STEAMER

Wrinkled garments are NOT okay. So I suggest investing in a steamer. Steaming your garments is so much easier than whipping out an iron, so there is no zero excuse for walking out of the house looking all rumpled.

3. LINT ROLLER

I have a dog and sometimes he sheds but no one should know that by looking at me. Before you walk out the door give your clothes a quick once-over with a lint roller. Even if you don’t have a dog, there are other little nasties that can ruin your overall appearance. Get to rollin’

4. MINI SEWING KIT

I like to keep a travel sewing kit in my closet for quick touch-ups. Never leave the house with a loose or missing button. Have a small hole that you think no one will notice? People will notice, stitch iy up with your mini sewing kit and you will be good to go.

5. LOTION

This is a weird one but it’s true … dry skin can ruin an outfit. I keep a bottle of lotion in my closet and make sure that any exposed skin is hydrated before I set foot out the door.

6. PINTEREST

OMG I love Pinterest! I keep my Pinterest board loaded with outfit inspiration so I never have a “I have nothing to wear” moment. Keep an iPad in your closet with your Pinterest board bookmarked or print out a few images from your board and post them on your closet door.

7. PROPER UNDERGARMENTS

Your undergarments lay the foundation for your ensemble and you must have a solid foundation in order to look your very best. If you are wearing a racer back top, make sure you have a racer back bra. Wearing thin pants? Skip the granny panties and opt for a thong instead. You get what I’m saying?

What tools do you need in order to look your  best?

by LAUREN MESSIAH

THE 3 DENIM TRENDS YOU NEED THIS SEASON

Denim is arguably one of the most important pieces in everyone’s wardrobe. I mean, who doesn’t wear (and love) denim? This season there are some new denim trends that should absolutely be added to your wardrobe.

FLARES

After being shut out by skinny jeans for years, flares are finally back.  What I love about flares are they are figure flattering and they are totally on trend with the 70s style movement that was seen on the runways.

CULOTTES

Definitely not for everyone but culottes are attempting a comeback. Talk about a great way to show off your favorite shoes and to show that you are ahead of the curve.

DENIM SKIRTS

It’s been quite a while since I’ve busted out a denim skirt but this upcoming season that will definitely change. A-line denim skirts are a nice nod to the 70s and the cut is universally flattering, so everyone can enjoy this trend.

Will you try out these denim trends or would you rather play it safe with the denim trends you already know and love?