Tag: statement

Five Steps To Identifying Your Personal Style

The term “personal style” has overshadowed “trends” quite recently. Personal style is exclusive to a person’s admirations whether it is clothes or beauty products. Surprisingly, we often notice that people find this topic intimidating. They’ll say, “I don’t really have a personal style.” The truth is, personal style is an irrepressible law. It’s there with you; you just have to define it. It keeps evolving with time, but it’s always there. Knowing your personal style is integral to triumph your fashion game. Here are a few steps to help you recognize your personal style and begin to define it.

 PHOTO: Lex Kelly

1—Understand your body structure

The foremost step to attain a niche with your outfits is to understand your body. Are you skinny or curvy? Are you curvy with a tiny waist? There is a way to dress every silhouette. For instance, horizontal stripes can make you look broad while vertical stripes will make you look comparatively petite. Also, a person with a petite waist should try to accentuate it and not hide it by wearing belted tops.

2—Examine your wardrobe

Your wardrobe speaks your personal style. Try to analyze which pieces you don’t wear from your wardrobe anymore. Figure out the styles and colors that have a majority in your wardrobe. Declutter your wardrobe accordingly and make a list of all the styles you admire for your next shopping spree. Make sure your wardrobe contains all the necessary staples for your style.

3—Follow trends that suit you

Every year, the fashion weeks define trends that will mark a statement in the following seasons. There will be trends that you like and trends that you would defy. You don’t have to follow the trends blindly, though! Always stay true to your personal style. For instance, we have seen Anna Wintour wear the same Manolo Blahnik pumps almost every day since they were designed for her. Many shoe trends come and go every year, but Anna is seen wearing the same style of shoe to fashion shows and red carpet events from the past two decades.

4—Find your signature accessories

Look for accessories that will uniquely define your style. You don’t need to buy bags and shoes excessively. Your signature accessory can be anything from bags, shoes, sunglasses, watches, etc. You have to make sure that this signature accessory will almost become your trademark. The ageless beauty, Angelina Jolie is known for wearing black. On the other hand, Gwen Stefani almost always wears a red lip. This is how these women have owned their personal style.

5—Identify your confidence cult

Always wear clothes that will make you feel comfortable. Identify the clothes in your wardrobe that would make you feel like they are your A-game. Your confidence will be your best accessory.

What is your personal style? Let me know on social media, and be sure to tag @CFashionista!

Additional photos taken by Kelly Rogowski and Valerie Cammack.

Statement Stripes Are the New Statement Piece

This summer is all about being bold. This is something that I used to be hesitant about, especially when posting pictures. Bold pieces are ones that are memorable and which can be great when trying to make an impact but can be repetitive when worn again. Since they are so memorable, people will know when you wore them last. Therefore, you must learn how to wear statement piece over again so that it does not lose its initial “wow” factor—this can often be done by adding a bomber jacket, rocking a new hairstyle, or swapping a new pair of shoes or sunglasses.

This striped jumpsuit is definitely a statement piece. It is also comfortable and neutral, so it is easy to pair with various items for any occasion. I recently traveled to Laguna Beach in California, and this jumpsuit was one of the first in my suitcase. I decided to channel my inner Californian and create a look influenced by the beachy and relaxed vibes of California. To satisfy this look, I kept my beach hair intact with natural waves and a top bun. By adding big chunky sunglasses, I fit in perfectly.

For this look, I wanted to emphasize the jumpsuit by adding simple accessories. I paired classic silver and gold jewelry because you truly cannot go wrong with either. My earrings are a small silver hoop with a gold accent, and my bracelets include silver bangles that add to the delicacy of the linen jumpsuit.

This beach vibe had to be completed by a neutral sand-colored wedge. However, for a more daring look, I would love to try a light pink block heel or black laced sandals on a different occasion.

Pieces like these are the type that I am most excited to experiment with because as long as the base outfit is fabulous, any accessories that you add on will only accentuate the look.

Summer is almost coming to a close, so how will you accessorize your favorite summer statement pieces before the season ends? Comment below or show us on social media @CFashionista!

Thrifty, Nifty… Maybe a Day Over 50

In today’s world, we see that fashion often repeats itself. We strive to have the newest of the new and frantically search for last of its kind. But with thrift shopping, you can have both! Want to step up your wardrobe but don’t know how? Listen up, Fashionistas, because I’m about to share with you the secrets of getting that one-of-a-kind style!

Reduce, reuse, recycle—fashion. Thrift stores are where vintage meets modern. Combinations of decades all collide in one place making it somewhat timeless! What could be more fun than traveling through time, or in this case, traveling through clothing racks?

Unique items appear in thrift stores every day and go unclaimed. Maybe its because we haven’t been looking hard enough. Thrift stores can have a range of items from a cute knick-knack you hang on a wall to a pair of Gucci sunglasses. With thrifting, there is no limit. All sorts of brand name items end up in thrift stores simply because people don’t want them anymore and feel it’s time for a new owner.

One of the best parts about thrift shopping is finding great items at an even greater price. There’s nothing better than seeing that the fur coat you have been dying to have is 75 percent off! Take advantage of the sales and discounts. Thrifting can be the perfect solution to what you’re looking for without hurting your wallet.

The thrift store allows you as a buyer to get creative. Don’t like how that skirt fits? Try wearing it as a top instead. Be bold and show off your funky outfits. Basic is boring, don’t be afraid to pick out a few statement pieces. It’s the little details that make a huge difference. There is no right or wrong way to wearing something, you do what makes you feel good—even if it means getting out the scissors and sewing machine to transform one item into a completely new look!

Thrift stores are the key to hidden treasures. Each store is different, so it’s best to explore them all. Who knows, maybe you will come across your own missing artifact!

Have you found any hidden treasures? Show us your favorites on social media and be sure to tag @CFashionista.

How to Be an Individual in the South

It’s hard to find different pieces of clothing that you would want to wear. Finding what makes it you is even harder. Most people, I believe, open their social media platforms to see what people are wearing and think they should go out and buy the same pieces. Most people look at trendy styles on social media and think to themselves, “I need to go buy that, so I can be a part of the trend.” This is a common occurrence in my hometown, which is a small place with no mall but a lot of boutiques. Since everyone shops at the same places, everyone has similar styles. I don’t think this a bad thing, but it makes it hard to be individualistic and find your own personal style!

1—Stepping Out of Your Zone. 

Finding your personal style is pretty easy; you just have to learn how to step out of your comfort zone. My first tip to finding your individual style is not buying complete outfits at the same places. Try to pick out different pieces at each place you visit such as a unique top and then some distinctive pants that you may like. The cropped wide leg jean is a huge trend and also different, and you can pair it with a simple shirt. Boom! You are individual and stepping out of your comfort zone.

2—Size It Your Way.

My second tip would be to accessorize your outfit to give it a sense of flair. You can really make an outfit look more unique by adding watches, rings, or necklaces. My favorite thing to do is to pair my simple outfits with a statement necklace and a distinctive belt. This is how I like to show my individuality throughout my look.

3—Self Confidence. 

My third and final tip on finding your individual style is to be self-confident. A good thing to do whenever you are feeling down about your individuality is to get a notebook and write down things you love about your style. It could be the accessories that you style with your top or your shoes (anything will work)! Never be ashamed or tell yourself that you can’t wear something that is different! You are individual, and it’s okay to stand out of the crowd and be who you want to be stylishly!

At the end of the day, it can be really hard finding what type of clothes you enjoy wearing that make you feel individual. Just remember, the most important thing is for you to feel confident in what you are wearing!

What makes you feel individual? Comment below to let us know!

Trendy Pieces You Should be Wearing Right Now

As much as I willed them to be, my shoes aren’t real Stella McCartneys. Tragically, I can’t afford those at the moment, which is just depressing because I adore her and her insanely trendy designs!

What I love about fashion is that it’s cyclical, which means what was once in fashion will eventually come back in fashion. My favorite part is seeing how today’s designers make that style of clothing their own. Take the trend of shoulder pads, for example. Their first debut was in the ’30s as a subtle edge for a more defined silhouette. Then, they came back with a vengeance in the ’80s, creating the power look of an over exaggerated frame to help bridge the gap between men and women in the workforce. Today, they have been reinvented by designers like Jason Wu and Dolce & Gabbana with adornments and color creating a whole new era of the shoulder pad.

Trendy clothing is probably my favorite genre because it’s always so fun and funky. Today designers are getting super creative with their collections, making them feel more like artwork than just clothes. For me, that makes shopping and creating ensembles really exciting! One of the highest compliments my friends and I say to each other is how trendy the other’s look is.

The platform faux Stellas are no doubt my favorite shoe purchase I made in Europe. I paired them with my amazing red tulle skirt that I am obsessed with. I love both of these items, so I put them together, and of course they look killer!

My purse is from a small Florentine boutique called Garbage ‘En. I loved the patches and the black stitching around the outline. I walked past the store, saw the bag in the window and turned right back around and went in to buy it.

What’s perfect about patches is that you can make your own customized purse or any item of clothing! It’s so easy to create a completely original piece by just buying patches and sewing them onto the fabric exactly how you want.

I thought the colors of the purse and the fun patches would compliment my other standalone pieces and make my look even more extra! And of course, would the outfit even be cool or edgy without a trendy leather jacket?

What is your favorite trendy item of the moment? Comment below. 

Street Style Made Easy

We all see pictures of celebrities and famous bloggers online rocking edgy street wear that looks impossible to wear in everyday life.  However, when attempted, street style is a lot easier than it looks!  One trend that seems too daring to try is the mesh shirt, but, if you’re looking for the ultimate ’90s outfit, then mesh will be your best friend!

The first step to rocking the edgy trend is to really focus on the undergarments since they will be shown through the mesh. Also, it’s important to match the color of your bra to the color of your shirt to look more put together, making it less noticeable that you’re totally wearing a sheer shirt. Everyone is going to see it, so this is the best time to break out your best bra or bralette!

Since the shirt is such a statement piece the rest of the outfit doesn’t have to be too overdone. In this case, just a pair of loose mom jeans were worn as bottoms, adding to the ’90s style. Large accessories definitely aren’t necessary here, all that’s used is a chunky black belt to tie it all together. Trying to dress up the outfit a bit more? Add black Mary Janes! They add to the ’90s trend and are more unique than just regular black flats or sandals. With the basic pieces being used, the outfit is minimalistic enough to be rocked as everyday wear.

Pictures of street style found online can definitely be intimidating, but it’s not hard to reproduce in everyday wear. You would never believe this super simple outfit was put together so effortlessly!

Will you be trying to rock this super easy street wear look?  Let us know on social media by tagging our handle @cfashionista. 

WHAT TO WEAR: Make a Statement

These shoes were made for making statements, and that’s just what they’ll do. –Carrie Underwood…kind of.

If there’s one thing a girl knows, it’s that your shoes can either make or break your outfit. This Fashionista took her look to the next level by throwing on a pair of bold shoes, making it clear she’s ready to make the best of this crazy month. Whether you’re finishing up final exams or kicking off your best summer yet, this month has so much to offer. Think: pool parties, Memorial Day weekend festivities, catching up with your friends, and outdoor adventures. Say hello to May, and hello to changing (and fun!) fashion.

To go into more detail about this Fashionista’s look, we have to start by looking at it as a whole. Upon first glance, we get a sense that this Fashionista is bold. She isn’t afraid to let the world see her, and she knows that because life is short, every outfit has to count. I mean, what’s the point in dressing your best if you can’t capture the attention of all who see you?

Diving into the specifics, this Fashionista is wearing the cutest white, backless romper. She isn’t afraid to take a risk by wearing white before Memorial Day (is this really still a rule?), and she knew the plain ensemble would pop against the bright background. Rompers are great because they look like they take a lot of effort, and yet they are the easiest outfit to wear. They’re basically a dress but shorts.

Moving onto her shoes, this Fashionista is wearing the boldest of bold shoes—knee-high gladiator sandals. She’s giving off strong bohemian vibes and it’s working for her in every way. Looking at her simple, yet stylish, accessories, she paired silver hoop earrings with the look to stay on-trend with the latest celebrity accessory craze.

Overall, this Fashionista knows how to work bold shoes and a fun background to stand out in all of the right ways. This is exactly what you want to wear if you’re ready to make a fabulous statement.

STYLE ADVICE: Keepin’ It Cool

As summer showers and sunny days become frequent happenings, Fashionistas everywhere prepare for these spontaneous months. “Spring cleaning” takes full effect, and this Fashionista shows us what spring staples you don’t want to throw out.

This Fashionista nails the cool-girl, laid back vibe with embroidery and neutral colored clothing. To start off the outfit, a neutral top—preferably tan—is the perfect base to build on. Since the weather in Florida is pretty unpredictable during these months, you want to get a T-shirt that is light and airy. Another year-round staple that works for day or night is denim. I’m the kind of girl that lives in her skinny jeans and denim shorts, and this Fashionista is after my own heart. When buying anything denim, make sure it’s not coarse and has a little stretch—you want to be able to move in them and be comfortable, not suffocating. I also love how this Fashionista rolled the bottom of her jeans to create a boyfriend, more relaxed, look.

Embroidery is something that makes any look complete, and this Fashionista’s jacket is calling my name! A statement jacket adds that bit of edge to any outfit and adds a personal flair that is all your own. This Fashionista’s jacket was purchased at Urban Outfitters, the brand known for providing “it” pieces for any Fashionista’s closet. If you’re too busy to hit the mall, get more bang for your buck by bedazzling or decorating your own jacket. To complete the outfit, this Fashionista wears nude heels. With a back strap, and a small heel, these shoes are perfect for day-wear and campus walking. And this Fashionista doesn’t leave anywhere without her clear frames—and you don’t need to have prescription eye-wear to wear these bad boys!

So before you toss and buy, search your wardrobe for these fashion forward pieces that are timeless and certain to make a statement for any season!

BEAUTY BAR: Lip Statement

It’s the time of year when we bring out all our flirty and fun colors! This can be done with tops, bottoms, dresses, shoes, and even your make up… that’s right, make up can be a total game changer when it comes to looking chic this season. There’s so much to choose from now a days when it comes to your beauty products. Even a simple bright shade of lipstick and winged eyeliner can make your outfit.

Make up can be used to make a statement within your everyday look. It adds that special wow factor and draws positive attention to you even if your outfit may not be styled to the max. Lipstick specifically can make any look that much better, just as this Fashionista shows us here. She gives off a relaxed, yet totally trendy and chic vibe. Her outfit is subtle and comfortable, but by adding her bright lipstick, she pulls this look together and makes her very own statement!

This Fashionista made her look complete by sticking with a natural look but adding a bright pop of color on her lips! To keep it looking natural she used Stila Aqua Glow Serum Foundation, Kat Von D eyeliner, Benefit high beam highlighter, and finally her lip color Anastasia Beverly Hills liquid lipstick mixed with Lancôme’s Juicy Shaker Pigment infused Bi-Phased.

If you’re feeling like your look might be missing that special something, try a fresh new lip color to brighten up your style while looking ultimately fashionable in such a simple way! I recommend heading to your nearest beauty supplier and stocking up on some must have spring/summer lip colors… I promise you won’t regret it!

BEAUTY BAR: Glitter Glow

Personally, I’m not a beauty guru. I don’t even wear makeup. However, I am able to recognize an amazing beauty look when I see one. So, when I saw this Fashionista wearing glitter with her otherwise casual look, I had to find out her tips and tricks for the look.

Glitter was the biggest makeup trend at Coachella this year. However, there are ways to rock this trend without shelling out hundreds of dollars for a music festival. This Fashionista proves that. She incorporates this glitter highlight into an everyday look for any college girl/guy.

I asked this Fashionista all about her process of doing her makeup for this look. First, do your normal face makeup. Second, do a normal highlight. Third, where you normally would do your highlight, use lash or glitter glue to attach the glitter to your skin. Fourth, use cosmetic grade glitter for your eyes and face. This Fashionista does not recommend using glitter from a craft store because it could be painful to remove. It would be okay to use it on your skin but definitely not your eyes. You’re finished and ready to go take on the world with your glitter glow look.

Besides her glitter highlight, this Fashionista has other interesting components of her makeup look. She has an interesting look for her eyes with lighter eyeshadow colors, like matte yellow, shimmer yellow, and a deep matte hot pink color on her lower lash line from the Morphe 35B Palette. Then she mixed in a shimmer pink from the BH Cosmetics Galaxy Chic Palette with that pink from the Morphe Palette to create the eye look. For a palette with a wide range of colors, try the Make Up For Ever Artist Palette Volume 3. Finally, she tied it together with a darker shade from Wet N Wild’s MegaLast Liquid Catsuit Matte Lipstick. For a similar liquid matte lipstick, try this BareMinerals GEN NUDE. This Fashionista says she purposefully contrasts a darker lip with a lighter eye look when doing her makeup.

In order to let her beauty look be the main focus of her entire outfit, this Fashionista decided to go with a more neutral look. She paired her thrifted skirt with a black cami from Forever 21. Keeping her accessories tame, she went with all black pieces: sunglasses from Francesca’s, a thrifted purse, and hi-top shoes from Forever 21.

One thing is for sure, even with an average cute outfit, this Fashionista manages to stand out with her glitter highlight look. If you’re looking for a new makeup look to spice up your everyday beauty routine, try to add some glitter and rock it with confidence.