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?

10 WAYS TO WEAR NUDE PUMPS

I recently ended my hunt for the perfect pair of nude pumps. After attempting to buy a pair of nude Louboutin pumps (all sold out) or a pair of Manolo’s (they didn’t have nude) – I settled on a pair of Kurt Geiger pumps that were on sale atShopbop. To my surprise, these pumps are freaking perfect and due to their classic nature, will last me a lifetime.

If you don’t have a pair, I recommend you invest because the outfit possibilities are endless. Here are 10 ways …

  

1. WITH A FLIRTY SKIRT

Ton down the crazy with a classic pair of pumps and let that flirty skirt shine.

2. WITH WHITE

Who knew that nude and white were a match made in heaven?

3. GET ALL MATCHY-MATCHY

Nude on nude? Sexy.

4. WITH NEUTRALS

Blend in to the background with a totally neural ensemble. Pop some color with your bag if you’re bored.

5. ADD A CAMEL COAT

Tie in the nude with a cozy camel coat.

6. WITH A TOMBOY-INSPIRED LOOK

A subtle touch of femininity will totally upgrade a tomboy-inspired weekend look.

7. WITH SOMETHING KOOKY

Let your freak flag fly without a fussy pair of shoes getting in the way.

8. ALL BLACK WITH A TOUCH OF NUDE

You wouldn’t think to add nude shoes to an all black outfit but it works AND it elongates your legs.

9. ADD TO COLORED BOTTOMS

Can’t figure out which color shoes match your colorful pants? Keep it simple with nude.

10. WITH BAGGY JEANS

Baggy boyfriend jeans look suddenly polished and pulled together with a pair of nude pumps.

10 WAYS TO WEAR FLARES

Let me tell you something, I am SO glad flare jeans are making a comeback. I, like everyone else, fully embraced skinny jeans and swore I would never put another pair of flares on again. But a few months ago, I bought a great pair of Current Elliot flares on The Outnet for $45. I reluctantly wore them to an event and I was shocked at the response. People loved the flares and more importantly, I loved the flares! Not only were they comfortable, they made me look taller and thinner (who doesn’t enjoy that).

So like a true fashion junkie, I bought another pair and am excited to add flares into my closet rotation. Want to wear them too? Here are 10 ways …

THROWBACK STYLE

Get a little retro with it (like Rachel Zoe) and add a 70s spin to your flares.

WITH LEATHER

Toughen up your flares with a leather moto jacket.

EXTREME STYLE

Go big or go home with a pair of extreme flares that drag on the floor (oh god, here comes the college flashbacks)

CHANGE UP THE MATERIAL

Who said flares have to be in classic denim? Try a coated denim or leather instead.

JUST ADD FUR

Adding a touch of fur (real or fake) adds a bit of luxury to your casual flared jeans.

TRY THEM IN WHITE

Because white jeans just look so darn classy, don’t they?

TOP IT OFF

Hats make everything better, even a pair of flared jeans.

DENIM ON DEMIN

Canadian tuxedo anyone?

WEEKEND STYLE

Make it extra casual with a striped tee and messy hair.

PREP IT OUT

It’s class all the way with this polished preppy look that Victoria Beckham is rocking.

11 STYLE CHOICES THAT ARE ACTUALLY AGING YOU!

There is nothing wrong with getting older. Actually, getting older is kind of awesome. With age you become smarter, savvier, and way cooler. You couldn’t pay me to be 25 again. I’ll stick to the age I am now, thank you.

Of course getting older is no walk in the park. Areas of your body start randomly hurting (how the heck did my back get so stiff?), you can’t eat how you used to (pizza is no longer an option), and staying up late? Forget about it! Getting dressed can be a bit more challenging as well. The words “age-appropriate” start swirling around. Does this outfit make me look too young or, even worse, too old!

These 11 items are masquerading as regular old garments but they are actually making you look older. Proceed with caution or simply avoid at all costs …

CRAZY DENIM

“Crazy” denim should be reserved for young people. Super low-rise, whiskering, and acid wash jeans are things you should stay away from. These denim styles look cheap and lack sophistication. Just say no.

EXTREME PLATFORMS AND “STRIPPER” HEELS

I’ve never been a fan of extreme platform shoes. Some are okay but overall, they are tacky. Extra high platforms and too-high heels should be reserved for the 20-something sect. Too high heels makes it look like you are trying way too hard to stylish and sexy. Ladies, we can still get the job done with 4 inches or less.

THOSE DARN KITTEN HEELS

The other extreme is wearing heels that are too low. Now I am sure there are SOME cute kitten heels out there but overall they are too safe and too matronly looking. Pump those heels up for a more modern look.

LIVING IN THE FAST FASHION LANE

I liken fast fashion with going to the club. Its fun and cute in your 20s but once you hit 30, you’re the oldest chick in the club and it just starts getting sad. Wearing clothing from H&M and Forever 21 will make you look old. Zara? We can still do Zara – love me some Zara.

RACOON EYES

Heavy black liner is like drawing a bulls eye around your aging eyes. Even if your eyes haven’t started budding wrinkles, the overdrawn liner look should be reserved for angsty teens. That’s their look, let ‘em have something.

OVER TANNING

Being a slave to the sun, the tanning booth, or even self tanners is a bad idea if you want to keep your youthful appearance. Appearing too tan can make your skin look leathery instead of healthy and glowing. Think about Tan Mom. Does Tan Mom look young? Uh huh …

MATCHING JEWELRY SETS

Oh boy this one really upsets me to no end. Wearing those 3-piece jewelry sets – together! You know the necklace that comes with matching earrings and if you’re lucky a bracelet too. That just screams OLD! Run away from matching jewelry sets or at least never wear them together.

ILL FITTING CLOTHING

Clothes that are too baggy or too tight will age you. You are grown, you should know how clothes are supposed to fit by now. If you don’t (and that’s okay too) find a tailor or a qualified personal stylist to guide you.

WEARING DATED CLOTHING

There is a difference between retro and old! There is nothing wrong with wearing older clothing or items from past seasons but you must remember to give them a modern twist. Mix an 80s blazer with some clothing from today. If you are rocking head-to-toe 1998, you are going to look old.

DRESSING TOO SEXY

Nothing is sadder than a woman trying to hold on to her sexy. Newsflash, you are still sexy. In fact, with age you have become so sexy that you no longer have to show it off to such an extent. Wearing garments that are too tight and too revealing will make you look older than you are.

by LAUREN MESSIAH

4 STEPS TO LOOKING (AND FEELING) LIKE A MILLION BUCKS

I think its pretty safe to say that everyone wants to at least feel like a million bucks. Some people even want to look the part too. The thing is, when you look good your chances of feeling good dramatically increases. I know when my outfit, hair, and/or makeup are less than stellar, I certainly don’t feel as good as I do when they are.

I have an easy formula that quickly elevates my look from $5 to at least a million …

SIMPLE FACE + RED LIPSTICK

It’s a sad reality but wearing makeup really does make you look more put together. You don’t have to breakout the makeup paint gun or anything, a simple face will do. My simple face involves foundation, blush, mascara, and red lip. Red lipstick (or you go-to color of choice) makes it look like you give two craps about your appearance. I am never without a tube of red lipstick.

STYLE HAIR OR ADD A HAT

I give my hair the once over with the curling iron but maybe your go-to style is a blow-out or something else that makes you feel awesome. Feeling super lazy? Then just throw on a chic hat and call it a day. You all KNOW that is my go-to.

PUT ON A PAIR OF HEELS

Sure flats are comfortable but heels really do make a statement. A pair of jeans and a tee shirt are suddenly chic and expensive looking with a great pair of heels. This trick works every time.

TOP IT OFF WITH A STATEMENT PIECE

Adding one wow piece to your look instantly increases the cha-ching of your look. Maybe its a great pair of sunglasses (celebs do this trick all the time) or it could be a great coat or a killer necklace. The trick is to focus on ONE piece. Too many “shiny” things to look at can end up coming off as cheap.

How do you step up your look?

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?