Friday, December 28, 2012

Fashion in The New Year


Considering the New Year is only a few days away, I figured that I would share a few resolutions. Now I am not talking about your average resolutions like losing ten pounds or eating healthier. I’m talking about fashion resolutions! These resolutions will not only make you more fashionable, but I think they help you feel even better about yourself. So here are some fashion resolutions that are easy to do and turn you into a true fashionista. Let’s make 2013 the most fashionable year yet!

First, NEVER WEAR LEGGINGS AS PANTS. This is a huge pet peeve of mine, and I wish the so called “trend” would disappear. My rule of thumb when it comes to leggings is that as long as your shirt/dress completely covers your bottom and a little more (mid-thigh would be perfect), then I would say wearing leggings is acceptable. To go along with wearing leggings, don’t wear a skin tight shirt on top. Not only does it not look good, at least in my eyes, but it also isn’t very figure flattering. By wearing a looser top you are taking away pounds, not adding them.  So if this is a resolution you think you can achieve, wear a longer and looser top, and never ever think wearing them as pants is acceptable.


Second, DON’T LEAVE THE HOUSE IN SWEATS OR YOGA PANTS UNLESS YOU ARE WORKING OUT. Along with leggings, this is another pet peeve of mine. Putting on a pair of jeans is really not that hard, you don’t even have to iron them. If you are in public who looks more presentable, and person in baggy sweats or a person in jeans? Personally, I am going with the person in jeans, and if you think the person in baggy sweats is more presentable, you might want to pick up a fashion magazine. There isn’t much to this resolution other than not putting on sweats and yoga pants, so if you are looking for something that doesn’t require much effort, this might be for you.

Third, DON’T GET IN A FASHION RUT. Everyone has one trend that they are head over heels for, but wearing it every day just wears it out. There are so many trends out there, so don’t get stuck with only one. Even try mixing trends together, it is just like mixing prints. As long as they are similar, a great outfit can surely come from them. You may also have and outfit that is your absolute favorite, but if you wear it every week, it begins to lose its specialness.  To avoid getting in a rut, try and not wear the same outfit twice. Now I don’t mean never wear the same outfit twice, but don’t repeat it for at least two weeks. That way, when you do repeat an outfit, it seems new again. Also by adding new accessories to classic outfits, such as a T-shirt and jeans, you easily make them a new outfit, and stay out of the classic rut.I know how easy it is to get in a fashion rut, but it is also quite easy to get out of it. To achieve this resolution, just think outside the box and be creative.

Fourth, TRY SHOPPING AT NEW STORES. This is something that I absolutely love because I always have pieces of clothing that nobody else has. As I have gotten older, I have realized that a label doesn’t make the clothing great. I am not afraid to shop at places such as TJ Maxx and Target, or even Sears and Wal-Mart. I’m sure right now you are questioning these choices, but because I shop at a variety of stores, my wardrobe doesn’t match anybody else’s. This trend may seem kind of intimidating because you might worry that people are going to laugh by shopping at unexpected places, but all I have to say to that, is get over it. Your wardrobe is going to be a lot more diverse than others, and that will make you more of a fashionista.

Fifth, BUY THE SIZE THAT FITS NOT THE SIZE YOU THINK YOU ARE. I cannot emphasize this enough! You may think you are a size 2, but a size 4 might fit a whole lot better. All brands fit differently, which means that you are not the same size in every brand. Don’t be afraid to buy a large, when you are usually a medium. Even I took some time learning this lesson, and even cried when it came to sizes, but now I don’t care what size it is as long as I know I look good in it. If the size of a piece clothing bothers you, just cut the tag out. Size truly does not matter when it comes to clothing, what matters is how good you look in the clothing. This is a resolution that I think everyone needs to take part in.
Sixth, TRY SOMETHING NEW. I know this is so cliché, but it is so fitting when it comes to fashion. I there a piece of clothing you are too scared to try or a color that intimidates you? Just try it on. Trying it on isn’t going to kill you, and by doing this you can stop wondering on whether it looks good or not. Plus you might find out that you look drop dead gorgeous in the dress that taunts you every time you walk into the store. This resolution is something that every single person can take part in. Just do it!

Now these are only a few fashion resolutions and I am sure you can think of many more. By reading these I hope that your inner fashionista has become inspired and that you are ready to take a chance with fashion in the new year. I can promise you that doing something daring when it comes to fashion can make your year. Don’t believe me? This year I took a chance and got a pixie cut, and now I wouldn’t think of going back to long hair. So as the new  year rolls in take a chance and don’t look back. You won’t regret it.

Fashionately,
Sarah

 PS. Happy New Years!

Thursday, December 6, 2012

Modest is Hottest



This week has become a week of horrible fashion, not for me, but for many others. Now I am not going to lie, I judge people on how they present themselves in public, especially when it comes to clothing. I am not afraid to voice my opinions on this subject, and some people find this to be rude and inappropriate. Now some of you may be thinking how awful I am for judging others, but don’t lie to yourself, you do it too. Now what comes to mind when I look at people in public is how appropriate their clothing choices are and how modest they are.

 When the word modesty is brought to thought, what do you think of? Some of you may be thinking of a person covered from head to toe in clothing that isn’t very fashionable, and others may be thinking of a person who looks fashionable, but could spend the day with their grandparents. When I think of modesty I think of the latter one. I mean, do you really want your boobs hanging out when you are spending the day with your grandparents? I sure don’t, and if you do, I think there might be something wrong with you. To all the scantily clad girls (you don’t deserve to be called women), there are quite a few people who don’t want to see that much of you, me being one of them. I don’t want to see your bum hanging out, your boobs in full view, and especially your “woo-hoo” out for the world to see. I don’t want to see this in class, in the dining hall, or even at parties, and I find it disgusting if you think this is the appropriate way to dress.


There are many clothing choices that are modest, yet still sexy. I enjoy showing of my butt in curve hugging dresses, but I make sure that the dress is long enough and that I am not showing too much skin up top.  I would feel uncomfortable in a dress that I couldn’t move in and that if I did my whole bottom and “woo-hoo” would be showing. I also don’t think my parents would be very happy to see pictures of their daughter like that on Facebook, especially when they think it is funny to call me a nun. So when you want to go out for a night on the town, choose pieces that complement each other. One way to do this is choosing one tight piece and one loose piece. So if you choose to wear tight jeans, wear a looser top because not only does it look a bit more modest, but it is also more flattering. Wouldn’t you want to look hot and not feel like you should be on a street corner? I know I would. When going out to parties, make sure your outfit fits the season. A short tight dress with 5-inch heels is not a clothing choice that comes to mind when thinking of wintertime and it is not modest. A more winter-ready appropriate party look is a skirt with a sweater. Now I sure you are thinking I’m crazy and saying “A skirt and sweater to a party? I don’t want to look like my grandma.” But add some sparkles and jewelry and the outfit is still modest and party appropriate (If you still don’t believe me look at the picture). These are only a few ideas for a modest party outfit; feel free to share your ideas.


College is a time to find out who you are and to express yourself, but that does not mean expressing your boobs in the classroom. If you really insist on wearing a low cut T-shirt to class, please wear a scarf or something, I am begging you! Not only are you distracting every boy in the classroom as they stare at you, but you are also distracting me because I am trying to figure out how you feel comfortable looking like that in class. To avoid this scenario, here are some clothing choices that will make you feel great about yourself, and stop making me question your dignity. As I have posted about before, scarfs are a great layering piece, but they also are great for covering up low cut T-shirts. A great pair of fitting jeans is also important when it comes to dressing modestly on a daily basis. Make sure your jeans are the right size for you because muffin top and butt crack are not only gross, but they aren’t really considered modest.  Just because you have a pair of pants that are a size 4, doesn’t mean another pair won’t be size 6. It isn’t that you are gaining weight; it is just that all pants are made differently. When dressing modestly, wearing the proper size is key. That means buying all clothes that fit, no matter what the size is. I have learned this, and honestly I don’t care what size I am buying anymore. The pictures are great examples of modest, but great outfits. Try one out!

Hopefully you all have some new ideas on how to dress modestly and appropriately whether it is a regular day or a night out on the town. By dressing modestly and appropriately, people will notice you for the right reasons, and you will feel good about yourself.  By the way, yoga pants and leggings are not considered appropriate for daily wear ever! If you think so, read my first post Sweatpants, and Leggings, and Shorts, Oh My and you may reconsider. Finally, if you are ever questioning an outfit fit, ask yourself, would it be appropriate to wear around your grandparents?


 Fashionately,
Sarah

Monday, November 26, 2012

Just Another Layer




As I look out the window of my dorm room, I can’t help but smile. You may think that I am smiling because there are attractive shirtless guys outside or my wish, like Emma Stone’s, of John Cusack standing outside my window finally came true. But no, although I wish those were true, I am smiling because snow is falling and the sun is barely shining. To this I must shout “Finally!” Now I don’t hate summer, but being as pale as I am, daisy dukes and tank tops don’t look that great on my white skin, even when I think I have a tan. Fall and winter are much more enjoyable for me because the clothes are so much cuter, and I can cover up a lot of my “almost translucent” complexion. I achieve this by layering, which is a great tool to use on a college campus when walking and biking are your only modes of transportation.  So here are tips on layering that keep you warm and looking adorable too.

Not only do I love sweaters on their own, but now layering them with collared shirts has become one of my new favorite looks. Actually, sweaters layered over anything is what I love right now. Whether you layer it over a dress or with a classic blazer, this look is a perfect way to look stylish while being warm. Layering sweaters can be tricky because layering the wrong pieces can make you look bulky, which is something you definitely want to avoid. If layering a dress and sweater, I advise using a dress with a thinner fabric. By doing this you can easily layer a cashmere sweater over top, or a cable knit sweater, without adding bulk. As I said earlier, I am loving sweaters with collared shirts. I would say that this look has become an instant classic for me. What is so great about it is that most collared shirts, such as button downs, are made out of thin fabrics like cotton, which makes it a great layering piece. Also, they come in so many different patterns, that it is hard not find at least one that becomes a “must have.” Now these are only a few ways to layer sweaters, so I am leaving it up to you to experiment and share your ideas.

To say that I love scarves is an understatement. Even as I am typing this post I am wearing my new scarf that I bought over the weekend. I am so dedicated to them that not even summer can stop me from throwing one on. I believe that everyone should own a scarf, whether you are a guy or girl. Scarves come in so many different fabrics and patterns, that you are bound to find at least one that you like. They are great to add a personal touch to outfits, and they keep your neck nice and toasty. By adding a bright printed or chunky knit scarf and a dark pair of tights, a summery looking dress easily becomes a great cold weather outfit. If you want a laid back layered outfit, a sweater and scarf is easy to throw together. On a day when it is quite chilly out, a scarf not only becomes a way to keep warm, but adds even more style to your outfit.

If you are feeling really daring, you could try multiple different layers, which can be easily done by combining ideas from above, and using ideas of you own. How about sometime this week you try throwing on a fur vest with a sweater? The sweater instantly becomes chic and you are a lot warmer.  Do you have a blazer that you are just not sure what to pair with? Layer it over a sweater or a dress, and your outfit becomes even better. A blazer is no longer just for the office, but is something that can be worn on any average day. If you need some inspiration, check out my clothing board on Pinterest (http://pinterest.com/reelgirly/clothes/). There are great ideas on how to layer almost any piece of clothing. One final piece of advice is not to be afraid of layering different prints and colors. You will stand out on during the cloudy days and will look adorable.

I don’t think I have ever been so excited for the cold weather to come in, and I hope with my layering tips, you will be just as excited. Stay warm!

Fashionately,
Sarah

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Men's Fashion Through My Eyes

I received a message from a friend last week telling me that he was upset at the fact that I never talked about men’s fashion. While I am pretty sure he was joking, considering he asked me if running short shorts were still more popular than spandex for men, he did bring up a good point. Although it isn’t as important to me, men’s fashion is still something that I take notice to. I think a lot of the same rules apply to guys as they do to girls, but there are others that guys should never ever listen to.


When I think of men’s fashion, I immediately think of the boys from One Direction, which gives me a completely unrealistic view of what guys actually dress like.  A lot of guys that I have talked to say that the boys of One Direction dress “stupidly” or “strange”, yet girls I have talked to say that they are some of the best dressed guys they have ever seen. Although I wish that all guys dressed like One Direction, I know that is a lot to ask, so I will isolate just a few of my favorites from them. One of my favorite ways that they dress is how they wear sweaters, and wear them well. From cable knit to striped, there are many kinds of sweaters, so it should be easy to find one you like. Instead of a plain t-shirt every day, switching it up with a sweater or button down is to great ways to catch a women’s eye (mine included). Another great way to change up your style is to try pants other than jeans. Now I’m not saying wear orange jeans, but khaki jeans always look good. I hope guys will at least try these tips, and if they want to dress like One Direction completely, then I am all for it.

From what I have learned, a lot of guys do not put thought in what they wear on a day to day basis. I think there a few basics all guys need, that don't even require thought when getting dressed. A plaid shirt is one of my favorite things a guy can wear. It can easily be paired with jeans, and it is a classic piece. A pair of dark wash jeans always looks good, and personally I think they look better on guys than lighter wash jeans. Like I said earlier, sweaters are a great way to switch up your clothing for a day. And the last basic I think all guys should have are V-neck t-shirts. They can be worn with anything and they are such an easy piece to throw on. Who wouldn’t want that simplicity?

Now for the things guys should not wear. My number one thing that guys should not wear every day is sweatpants. I think they are a little more acceptable on guys than on girls, but that doesn’t mean I like them. The same goes for basketball shorts, which I like even less on a guy unless he is actually playing basketball/ When a man’s pants are too tight, I feel so uncomfortable. I am pretty sure that when guys wear skin tight pants they are not comfortable, and the same goes for all the people who have to see them. Nobody looks good with camel toe and I get creeped out even thinking about it. Skin tight t-shirts have the same rules applied.

Since I am a girl of fashion, I always find the guys dressed nicely more attractive. I wish all guys would wear blazers and bow ties, but I guess I will just have to save that for my dreams. I hope for the guys that actually read this, that you take some of my advice and put it to use. As for the girls, remember some of the tips, and spread them to all your guy friends.

Fashionately,
Sarah


PS. To guys who actually want to catch a fashion girl’s eye, try dressing like One Direction, Zac Efron, Andrew Garfield, Josh Bowman, or any J Crew model. Please?