Man Up

31. August 2011 · 1 comment · Categories: Trends · Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Ladies and Gentleman,

It’s my pleasure to announce that this Fall, something very exciting is happening for the male gender.  Fitted leather jackets, boots, and dark denim are going to hit hard.  That’s not the exciting part.  The reason I’m so pumped for all of this to happen is because these things don’t contain rhinestones, studs, or anything of the sparkly sort.  Fall is bringing back “the guy’s guy” and it’s about time!  I’m thinking James Dean…or Brad Pitt in the motorcycle scene on Benjamin Button.  Pardon me while I melt.



Nothing is more entertaining to me than to see guys acting tough while brandishing a sparkly skull on their chests, or a rhinestone tiger face on their back pockets.  Pull that V-neck down a little lower and I can see your belly button.  And I get it, Ed Hardy and Affliction told you that if it costs $100 or more, it’s trendy and awesome.  It’s not, and you just spent a hundred bucks on something your little sister could have bedazzled for you.

Not true, boys.

Luckily, the frilly phase is over and guys can go back to fixing cars instead of their hair.  PacSun, Guess, and Urban Outfitters are already distributing men’s attire that can’t be mistaken for women’s, so retailers are on the right track.  If you want some good visuals, check out GQ’s Fall Trend Report.  Remember guys, change is a good thing.  Embrace it.

Write you soon,

Jenn

Muffins Are For Eating

23. August 2011 · Write a comment · Categories: Tips · Tags: , , , , , , ,

Today I’m getting a little personal and talking about a tiny pet peeve of mine.  The reason this little issue is so obnoxious to me is because it is completely avoidable.  What am I talking about?  The Muffin Top.  It’s unattractive and makes people look bigger than they are.

I see at least one girl everyday who is spilling over the top of her shorts because she has squeezed into a size 2 instead of her rightful size 4.  I also help shoppers on a regular basis who insist they’re a specific size (when I can clearly see that is NOT the case), but then can’t breathe in the jeans they’ve forced themselves into.  What’s the result??  You know it, we’ve all seen it…

The Muffin Top

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Listen up ladies!  If you’ve realized that you’re two different sizes in two different stores, there is a perfectly good reason.  It’s a little thing called “vanity sizing.”  Since smaller sizes are more appealing to customers, stores have created this simple solution:  Put smaller numbers on bigger clothes.  Yes way.  A typical size 10 is now labeled a size 8, an 8 is a 6, and so on.  And if you find that you tend to shop at those places where the numbers are smaller than usual, then you’ve just proved the theory.  Let’s be real; No one sees your tags or checks your sizes while you’re walking around in public.  But, they do see those poor threads struggling to stay put.

So try a size (or two) up.  If that doesn’t work, try a different style.  A mid-rise or high-waist will help to prevent this fashion disaster, along with preventing a lawsuit from your button popping off and killing someone.  Check yourself out in the mirror.  You will feel (and look) a lot better in jeans that fit, as opposed to the ones you’re scared to bend over in.  If the sizes really bother you that much, cut the tags out, or hit the gym.  :)

Write you soon,

Jenn

Interview Attire: A Step Closer To Getting Hired

15. August 2011 · 1 comment · Categories: Tips · Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

As the job market begins to open up, I see a lot of people on their way to interviews.  What’s weird is, they all look the same.  Why does everyone choose a black pencil skirt and a white long-sleeve button-up?  Because it’s safe?  It’s “professional?”   It’s boring! So incredibly boring.  You’re trying to be remembered, trying to make an impression, and your outfit is the first thing your interviewer sees.  And no, it doesn’t matter what you’re applying for.  I know it can be hard to think outside the box, so I’ve put together 3 different looks (pants, a skirt, and a dress) that are completely appropriate for an interview, along with where I found everything.  You can probably find most of these items already in your closet!  So here’s the first:

For those of you who are stuck on black, I understand.  So this is black with some sass.  I chose skinny black pants because I think they’re extremely chic, but you can alter the style to your body-type or liking.  Add a jacket of a different texture or color to give your look a focus.  I chose a simple bracelet in the same color-scheme, not to overdo it.  Choose a shoe with a small embellishment to top it off and you’re good to go.  Polished and put together.

Next on the list:

A peach skirt, almost to the knee, so you’re not showing your goods off to anyone.  It’s light, loose, and ladylike, plus you’re venturing away from the standard black skirt.  I chose a top that covers all the key points; shoulders, chest, and back.  Add a long necklace to dress it up, and of course a pair of heels.  Classy AND conservative.

Now the easiest choice:

Wearing a dress to an interview is totally appropriate.  You don’t have to wear 10 pieces if just 1 gets the job done.  I adore this dress by Love Reign (you can find it at Dillards.) It has sleeves, it isn’t too low-cut, or too high above the knee.  I picked neutral shoes and accessories because the navy is such a rich color.  The bangle won’t make noise if you’re moving your hands around, and the earrings are small and simple.  Not only could you wear this to score a job, but out with your girls (or your guy) to celebrate your new career.

So the next time you’re trying to get a job, get it! Do your research, ask questions, and look amazing!  No one will forget the girl who was smart AND stylish.

Good Luck :)

Write you soon,

Jenn

 

No Tax? Go Nuts!

11. August 2011 · Write a comment · Categories: Tips · Tags: , , , ,

People will do anything to get a deal.  They wake up early, wait in outrageously long lines, fight traffic, or maybe even fight each other.  In Florida, tomorrow starts TAX FREE WEEKEND.

Have you ever been in a bar where everyone is just hanging out, being mellow, and the DJ plays “Sweet Home Alabama” and everyone just loses it?  They scream the lyrics, spill their drinks, and make you believe that you might be the only person NOT from Alabama.  That’s what Tax Free Weekend reminds me of.

Thousands of people storm the mall and go crazy for what?  $7 per $100 spent.  So not worth the hassle right?  Not if you know what you’re doing!  Here’s a little advice:  This is not about saving your tax dollars!  A lot of stores run awesome sales for this three-day event, so take advantage!  Even if everything is 30% off, you can get $500 worth of everything you need for $350, and that’s pretty awesome in my book. Don’t get stuck on all the full-priced items, hit the sale rack!  Use your head and get your money’s worth.

So, if you’re choosing to indulge in the spirit of TFW, I hope you’ve been hoarding your cash because the more you spend, the more you save!  Happy shopping my fellow Floridians and don’t forget to be smart! :)

Write you soon,

Jenn

Meet me at the Disco

10. August 2011 · 1 comment · Categories: Trends · Tags: , , , , , , ,

Well, minus the funky music and shiny ball.  This Fall is all about FLARE.   That’s right, the 70′s are making a comeback with a love for the wide-leg.  Whether your preference is a low-rise or a high waist, denim or black, the bell-bottom pant that originated in the navy (cool fact of the day) has been made with many options.  Add a cute tank top and don’t forget your heels!  Shop around online to see who has them in stock, and go try them on.  Personally, I’m partial to the Guess? Brand, so I’ll start you off there.  Guess by Marciano has a great selection for a more sophisticated version.  If you’re looking for denim, check out G By Guess to ease your way into the fit.  You can still love your skinny jeans, but give your legs some breathing room every now and then.  So grab a girlfriend and your stilettos and get on the flare train!

Write you soon,

Jenn

About Me

08. August 2011 · 7 comments · Categories: Me · Tags: , , , ,

I had my first pair of pumps at age 4.  They were mustard yellow and ten sizes too big.  I wore them everywhere, along with a side ponytail.  I lived in dresses.

In 7th grade I used my school agenda planner as a clothing journal, writing down everything I wore, every day.  I refused to wear the same thing within a two-week period.  By the time I reached my senior year of high school, I never repeated anything twice.  My parents may or may not have wanted to strangle me.

My obsession for all things fashion-related took me to Florida State University (GO NOLES!) where I got my degree in Clothing, Merchandising and Textile Science.  After graduating, I decided against the corporate route and went into retail.  I know, interesting choice.  I’m currently running a store in the Tampa area and for the most part, I love what I do.  I get the scoop on what’s to come, what’s hot, and what’s not. And so comes this blog.  I’m here to share my opinions and insights about what goes on in the world of trends and styles, and to offer a few tips for those of you looking to spice up your closet.

Write you soon,

Jenn