Nailing it!

Your hands are one of the first things that people notice when interacting with you. This is reason enough to make sure that your hands and nails are always presentable. Although people have always cared about manicures and pedicures, it seems that nails have now firmly taken their spot in fashion and serve not only as a matter of grooming, but also an expression of personal style. There are as many nail trends out there as there are fashion trends. Here is a quick guide to help you navigate:

Nail Shape: Square, rounded or oval
Square has been the prominent shape for quite some time now for both long and short nails. The shape has a bit of a masculine edge to it and structurally is the strongest shape for the nail.  This shape can be viewed as "neat and classic", but is merely a matter of opinion.  It is undeniably the most popular shape of nails at this time.

There is something very feminine about the rounded nail.  Whether long or short, it gives the illusion of an elongated nail bed and daintier fingers. This shape is certainly beginning to give the square shape competition and is in the midst of resurgence.  The oval, which is an exaggerated round is easier to adapt for the avant garde.    The long and pointy are called stiletto nails.  The look can take the vampy route when painted with darker colors or can be softened by lighter lacquer choices.

Nail Color:  From Nudes to Brights
Nude is simple and universal but most of all safe. Why not shake it up with a wide spectrum of color choices.  Whether it be the soft and trendy pastels to the bold and beautiful vibrant bright.  Live a little and be adventurous from time to time.

Prints and Designs

The old adage of less is more has now been converted to more is more....and better! Whether there it is vintage floral nail prints inspired by the Vivian Westwood models coming down the runway or eye popping 3-d designs jumping off the nails of pop stars,  there is no denying the impact that these designs have made.  It is not uncommon at all now to see these designs on the masses.  Many of these options are certainly not your most professional or practical of choices and certainly can be quite pricey.  However, if you are in a creative field, a younger girl or just determined and young at heart, this could be a fun option.

Check out my Pinterst board on "Nailing It!" and get inspired.

My Boyfriend's Back

Not only are boyfriend jeans back, but they seem to be sticking around for a while. In the Summer of 2008 people snickered at Katie Holmes when she wore her BF jeans french cuffed with silver flats, but the comeback has continued. During the Fall 2008 they were paired with booties for the cool weather. Now, just about every jean company has a BF jean offering and they are hotter than ever this summer.

Although the relaxed thigh and the straight leg fit is the opposite of a skinny jean, they can both be worn in the same way. The BF jean is not just for the casual look with flats or sandals. Instead, it can be dressed up in a very chic way for day or evening with the cutest heels. As with any jean fit, the next decision is the wash. Since this fit is so versatile, there is no right answer, so go crazy, feel free to be creative!


Wardrobe Tip #1: Why spend extra money if you don't have to? You may have some old loose fitting jeans in your closet that don't get worn anymore....why not cut them and make them into the shorts version of the BF jean?

Wardrobe Tip #2: If you are one of those girls who are lucky enough to fit into your honey's jeans, maybe you can "borrow" those and roll up the cuffs as you throw on your cutest shoes on your way out the door :-)

Jumpsuits Anyone?

If you have an eye for fashion, it is hard to ignore the jumpsuits that have entered the scene as a result of the Spring/Summer 2009 collections. Surprisingly this style is not as hard to wear as people think. Silhouette should be the primary concern when deciding what works best for you. This year, the designers have given us enough style and cut options to inspire the choices that you make in your local stores.

Balancing or skillfully distorting proportion is the key to wearing a jumpsuit successfully. Petite women and those with shorter legs should be looking to elongate the leg to give the illusion of height. This can be achieved with pant legs that are straight or skinny. Tall women have the luxury of adding the options of full length and wide leg versions. Curvy women with dominant hips should look to fit the widest part of them to ensure that the material falls as it should. Hips and narrow shoulders can be balanced with details that add volume, such as ruffles. Conversely V-neck and boat necks can open up narrow shoulders so that your upper-body does not get lost in the look. Lastly, those with killer legs, should be sure to wear the shorts version of the jumpsuit/romper...even plus size gals!

The best thing about a jumpsuit is that it is a one-piece garment that you can put on when you are on the go. It is a no brainer for those of you who do not enjoy the challenge of putting together too many pieces. Much like a dress, all you need are accessories and you are out the door. Accessories give you the chance to have your personality shine through, as well as take your jumpsuit to different places. A simple swapping of shoes, belt and/or jewelry can take your jumpsuit from day to night.



Stay on trend this summer and find the jumpsuit that is best for YOU.

Style Lesson: Pant jumpsuits can also be worked into your Fall wardrobe in a few months by adding a blazer and booties, so don't be afraid to invest.

A Great Day For Trendy Plus Size Gals

It has been over a year....I have missed you so.

Not only does today mark my return to being your blogger bud, but it is also the day that Forever 21 introduces their new plus size line called Faith 21. There has been plenty of buzz about this launching since the announcement earlier this year. Unfortunately this line is only going to be available in select stores and online. Don't let that discourage you. The more online support that the line receives, the sooner merchandise will be available in your local store.

The selection of clothes is not yet as extensive as the other sizes, but I am sure that will change. Most of what is currently available can be categorized as trendy-casual, with a couple of pieces that can be dressed up for good measure. One of my favorites is a black tiered skirt for under $20!! This skirt can go with anything and take you practically anywhere.

Styling Tip: This skirt would be best suited for plus size ladies with an hourglass, or reverse triangle shape. Ladies that have issues with the tummy area may want to select a top that is gently skims over the area and/or lightly layer.

Be sure to keep checking the website and if you are lucky enough to have Faith 21 in your area, be sure to check it out in person soon.