Accessories Anonymous: The Essential Straw Tote

Summer is a time for trips to the beach, shopping excursions in quaint little downtowns and picnics where ever it's picturesque. What do all these activities require? A great straw tote bag for toting all the essentials- an extra towel and some sunscreen, or a pair of sunglasses and a wide-brim hat, or even a blanket and some plastic utensils- a great tote bag is every girls' essential item for spring and summer. And nothing is more summery a statement than a textile such as straw:

Moroccan Straw Summer Tote Bag, Amazon, $39

Large Bamboo Straw Tote, Land's End, $29.99

Michael Kors Large Straw Tote, Nordstrom, $198

Totes are so basic, and yet there are still so many to choose from. Select a tote for yourself that will suit your needs and that will ensure you're getting the most use out of it that you possibly can. Happy tote shopping, ladies! 

Rate My Look- Color blocking

Color blocking has been all over the place for months now, so I suppose I ought to get around to talking about it here. Color blocking is simple and it is clearly demonstrated in my outfit pictured above. The idea is to group and stack colors together, in "blocks." Just like using colorful blocks as a kid and stacking and grouping them into structures. Instead of wooden blocks, you use clothing. As you can see from the picture, my skirt has color-blocking built into it with the gray on top of the black. The addition of the teal top only adds to the concept. In color blocking, there are no prints involved, only different groups of solid colors. It was a little chilly, so I had to add the cardigan to the outfit, but once again, I stuck with a solid. 

Because this trend is so popular right now, it's easy to find clothing with color blocking built into it. For example, this BCBGMAXAZRIA color-blocked dress: 

BCBGMAXAZRIA Color Block Dress, Amazon, $178

Of course, you don't need to run out and buy a bunch of color-blocked clothes to be part of this trend. Simply group several solid-color separates together. A solid blue skirt with a solid yellow top and a wide brown belt- get the idea? Put together a color blocked outfit and submit it to me to show on the blog- I'd love to see what you come up with! 

Renee's Guide to the Holidays- Part 4: Christmas with the family

Does your family celebrate Christmas with piles of delicious food? If your answer was "yes," feel free to refer to Renee's Guide to the Holidays- Part 1: Thanksgiving and follow those guidelines. In fact, feel free to use those guidelines for any major family function that involves a sit-down dinner situation.

Christmas with the family has the potential to be super casual- every sitting around in their PJ's for most of the day, until it's time for Grandma to come and then everyone changes into the reindeer applique sweaters that she bought for everyone LAST Christmas. I'm here to tell you that neither of these are acceptable fashion choices. Well, unless Grandma's feelings will be hurt, then wear the sweater for the minimum acceptable time to ensure Grandma's feeling remain intact.

Don't get me wrong- it's not that I oppose casual clothing for family functions- I really don't. I just think there is casual that's acceptable and casual that's unacceptable. PJ's? Unacceptable. Holiday- themed attire? Unacceptable. That's not to say that your clothes can't be in line with the theme of the holiday- feel free to break out the red and green and go to town. What I'm trying to say is that tacky holiday prints best suited for greeting cards and wrapping paper do not belong on your body. Let's do a little comparing and contrasting:

First up- the BAD:

Christmas Morning Cardigan, Christopher and Banks

Christmas Necktie, Amazon

Christmas Shirt, 6pm

Christmas Shirt, Draper's & Damon's

Are you picking up what I'm putting down? Hopefully your eyes aren't bleeding from those pictures.

Now, the GOOD: 

Red Tie-waist Cardigan, ShopNBC, $32.63

Striped Silk Necktie & Cufflinks, Amazon, $22.85

Cashmere Half-Zip Sweater, Ralph Lauren, $425

I could provide you with an endless supply of photos of both the good and the bad, but I hope that at this point, you pretty much get it. Whether casual or formal, family or friends, stick with pieces that while they may be festive and bright in terms of color and print, they are still items that you could potentially wear sometime other than just during Christmas. If it sports a giant snowflake or evergreen tree, chance are, it's not versatile enough. And it's probably pretty tacky, too. Just sayin'. 

Here's to not finding anything like "the BAD" under your tree this year. Happy Holidays! 

Can't (or don't) have pierced ears? Try clip-ons!

Earrings are one of my favorite accessories, and since I've had pierced ears since I was about 8 years old, it rarely occurs to me that some people might not be able to have pierced ears. Maybe you're plagued by infections, or the holes close up quickly. Maybe you've gone your entire life without piercing your ears, but you still want to wear earrings. Whatever the reason, wearing clip-on or screw-on earrings might be the best solution for you. 

Many vintage earrings are clip or screw fasteners, but vintage style isn't necessarily for everyone. In that case, consider the many jewelry-makers on Etsy- many of them offer clip-on closures as an option. Like these: 

Faceted Hoop Earrings, TwistedBeading (Etsy), $18.90

Pink Owl Earrings, Momadonna (Etsy), $10

Owl accessories have been hot for a little while now, so don't assume that just because you're in clip-ons, the trends won't be available to you! You may have to search a little harder than those with pierced ears, but your persistence will pay off. There are plenty of options on Etsy that are already clip-ons and they're not all vintage, although many that are vintage are pretty fabulous! 

Freshwater Pearl Earrings, RingRingRing (Etsy), $20

Beruria Earrings, Leeya (Etsy), $27

Vintage Cluster Earrings, iamcameo2 (Etsy) $5

Of course, clip-ons don't have to be limited to small dangles or clusters- you can find chandelier-style earrings in clip-ons as well: 

Carolee Coral Springs Chandelier Earrings, 6pm, $82.50

Austrian Crystal Chandelier Earrings, Amazon, $19.99

Not all "standard" options on clothing and accessories work for all people, but that doesn't mean you can't find what you're looking for. As I've said before, you may have to look a little harder, or in some cases, pay a little more, but the options are out there. Be persistent and don't give up! 

However, I understand that sometimes you don't want to keep looking- you've found the most perfect pair of earrings, but they're pierced, not clip-on. Maybe they coordinate perfectly with a dress or outfit you've purchased for a specific event. Maybe you just LOVE them- whatever the reason, you do NOT have to walk away from them just because they're pierced. You have two options:

1.) Buy them and take them to a jeweler who can convert them to clip-ons for you. 

OR.... 

2.) Convert them yourself! 

You'll be amazed at how simple it is to convert a pair of earrings to clip ons, and you'll be even more amazed at how affordable it can be. Go to your local craft store and find the jewelry "findings" section. Or let your fingers do the walking and try an online jewelry finding supply store like Jewelry Supply. There are several different types of clip-ons including these: 

As you can see with the clip in the above picture, there is a loop in the front. Simply use a pair of small pliers to transfer the earring from the pierced finding to the clip-on. Obviously, if it's a post-style earring, this type of clip-on won't work, but in that case, you can try these converters: 

The instructions are on the website, The Earring Doctor and are very straightforward. Another type of post-earring converter can be found here and here. Don't be intimidated by the converters- the last three links are for converters that don't require any type of tool to convert. The converters with a loop are much easier to use if you are comfortable with small jewelry pliers and it make take a little practice working with the jump rings. I found this basic video on YouTube that offers some basic instruction. 

If you have any other useful advice for women who prefer clip-on earrings, feel free to leave a comment! 

Accessories Anonymous: Gold Hoops

There are some things that every woman should have in her closet: a tailored trench coat, a little black dress, the right jeans for your body, to name a few. These staples, or investment pieces are items that should last for years, that are classic enough to pass the test of time, and well-made enough to handle the wear and tear over the years. It's okay to spend a little more on a classic investment piece because of how much use it will get.

Lately I've been thinking about getting a pair of nice, gold hoop earrings. Real ones. Gold hoop earrings are never out of style and they are the perfect finish to so many looks. They are versatile and sophisticated and worth the investment. But what hoops to get? How big should the hoop be? Narrow and dainty, or heavy and wide? It depends- the size and style of your hoops should match your own personal style. If you typically wear bold, loud clothing and accessories, then your hoops will probably work best in your wardrobe if they are on the larger side. And of course if the opposite is true and you tend to wear more basic, neutral clothing, then go with a more understated set of hoops. No matter what your personal style, I guarantee there is a set of hoops out there for you.

Some hoops are so versatile, they would work for nearly anyone or any outfit. These from Saks are that type. They are small, but well-made. They make a nice statement without being over the top.

Charles Garnier 18K 1 1/2-inch Gold Hoop Earrings, Saks Fifth Avenue, $275

The same style is also avaiable slightly larger:

Charles Garnier 18K 2 inch Gold Hoop Earrings, Saks Fifthe Avenue, $345

And if you prefer, an even larger version:

Large 3-inch 14K Gold Hoops, Heavenly Treasures, $298

Some people prefer a hoop that is small in diameter, but is a little more substantial in terms of the shape. In that case, these next few pairs of hoops might be for you:

14K Gold Polished Swirl Hoop Earrings, Macy's, $120

14K Gold Hoop Earrings, Amazon, $374.50

Honestly, hoops are so classic and versatile, there are literally millions to choose from. Find a pair that works for you and rock 'em!

It ain't easy being... beige?

One of the perks of my job is that I get to spend a lot of time shopping- both online and out in real stores. Unfortunately, I'm often searching for very specific things, but just to make sure I'm aware of what's out there, I try to take in a quick survey of the stores I visit. Today I happened across several beige cotton dresses that really caught my attention. I know, I know- the queen of bold floral prints in bright color combinations is excited about a BEIGE dress? BEIGE?!?!? It's true, though. I'm sure you already know that neutrals are "in" this season and that includes beige. How much beige do I currently have in my closet, you ask? I think I might have one top and one pair of beige wedges. I hate khaki pants of any kind, but a dress? Now that's something I can handle. Unfortunately, none of the dresses I tried on tonight were 100% to my liking. Fortunately, I have access to fabric stores, so I'll likely figure something out that works for me once I have time to sit down at a sewing machine. For those of you less inclined to make your own dress, I offer you these fabulous beige dresses to add to your wardrobe:

Judy or Madeleine Dress, Modcloth, $129

Shore Leave Dress, Modcloth, $47.99

Beach Picnic Dress, Modcloth, $99.99

Drawstring Shirtdress, Gap, $17.99 (Sale)

Babydoll Smocked Sundress, Ebay, $19.99

Tie-Waist Shirtdress, Ann Taylor Loft, $69.50

Perhaps you already have a fabulous beige cotton dress in your closet, but you aren't sure how to style it. Try it with these:

Steve Madden Fez Black Espadrilles, Amazon, $29.99

Printed Gauze Scarf, Old Navy, $12.50

Navy Lovergirl Satchel, Nine West, $39.99

I know what you're thinking, "Renee! You've lost your mind! A beige dress with black shoes and a navy handbag? You are breaking so many rules!" Well, freak out if you must, but when you've calmed down, come back and read on. Navy, beige and black are all neutrals and nuetrals go with everything- including each other. In fact, the whole idea of matching shoes to bag to belt, etc. is very outdated. So mix it up whether it's with a beige dress, or khaki pants, or anything neutral in your wardrobe. But don't forget the pop of color. With summer right around the corner, even a lightweight gauze scarf like the one pictured above might be too much. In that case, wear bright jewelry like a pair of turquoise earrings or some colorful bangle bracelets. Or tie the scarf around your waist instead of around your neck. The possibilities are endless, really.

Now if you'll excuse me, I've got a beige dress to design...

Inspiration: Maggie the Cat

Last night I saw the opening night performance of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof at the Fulton Opera House here in Lancaster. It was a great production- thoroughly enjoyable. I was familiar with the play and wasn't all that surprised by the costume choices they made- everyone looked great and every costume was perfectly appropriate. If you aren't familiar with the show, you may not know that a couple of the characters in the play actually spend the majority of the show in their undergarments. But that is not my focus today. Instead, I want to talk about Maggie the Cat. She's a character with sex appeal, but also with vulnerability. She's complex. Anyway, my goal isn't to ramble on about the costumes or the character! Instead, I want to show you some fabulous dresses I found that each seem to be a modern-day version of an appropriate Maggie the Cat dress. Enjoy!

Orange Sheath Dress, eDressMe, $230

Purple floral dress, Bluefly, $119

Satin Shirt Dress, Ann Taylor, $148

And of course, this post wouldn't be complete without a selection of Maggie-inspired lingerie:

Silk Chemise, Amazon, $90

Sometimes it's fun to select a character as your style icon, as long as you don't take it to the point where you look like you are wearing a costume. Who are some of your favorite characters that inspire you in your personal style?

Peaceful Protest

In protest of the cold weather that seems to be descending upon Lancaster, PA, I am posting "Ten Spring Finds for $10 or Less." Enjoy! (Click the description of each item to be taken to the site where it is sold.)

Old Navy Graphic Tee (Available in several colors), $9.99

Forever 21 Flowy Blurred Floral Skirt (Available in 2 colors), $9.50

Fair Indigo Red Rock Candy Bracelet, $8.80

Thai Silk Embroidered Clutch (Available in many colors), Etsy $7.00

(I think of it as more of a coin purse, but whatevs)

Mossimo Perri Gladiator Sandal (via Amazon), $8.04

Forever 21 Aviator-Style Sunglasses (Available in 2 colors), $5.80

Aldo Tweet Chandelier Earrings, $9.98

Old Navy Ruffle Trim Jersey Cami (Available in many colors), $8-$10

Old Navy Canvas Tote (Available in 4 colors), $10

Forever 21 Rainbow Bracelet Set, $5.80

Know any other great deals out there right now? Leave a comment!

My future's so bright..

... I gotta wear shades! As you may know by now, the PA/DC/MD area got hit pretty hard with a serious snowstorm yesterday. Today the sun is shining and it's almost blinding against the endless fields of white snow. It's really stunning. I love this kind of weather. The air is crisp and clean, everything is blanketed in gorgeous, sparkling, pure white snow and the contrast against the clear, blue sky is truly spectacular. You need a good pair of shades to function in it, though. Driving down the street can be a serious hazard because of the slippery snow, but also because of visibility due to the sun's glare against the snow. There are some shades that seem to keep coming back in style, so if you're wondering what will look good and remain classic, get yourself one of these styles:

Ray-Ban Wayfarer:

These classic shades were popular in the 60's, again in the 80' and now in 2010, they're back in full force once again. Perhaps it's the fact that all things retro are in vogue, or maybe people really do love this style. Or maybe it has to do with the fact that Ray Bans have been used in film and TV for decades. (Here's a fun fact for you: that unique product placement was the direct result of a deal signed between Ray-Ban and the company- you guessed it- Unique Product Placement in 1982.) Regardless of why they are so popular, the point is, they're hip right now and probably will be in another couple of decades. The ones pictured above are available at Amazon for $109, and more updated versions can be found just about anywhere. Unfortunately, that price is a little high for my budget. Fortunately, the Sunglass Shack offers a knock-off style for only $19.99 in both the classic black and this tortoise shell frame:

I remember back in the late 80's, early 90's it was popular to wear this style with black sides and neon colored front frames. Can you say, "HIDEOUS?" I admit, I had a pair. I think I bought them at the beach boardwalk for $5 when I was in 7th grade. What was I thinking? I'm pretty sure I paired them with a B.U.M. Equipment oversized t-shirt over my bathing suit. Thank goodness there are no pictures to document. At least, not to my knowledge.

Aviator Sunglasses:

 

Aviators look good on everyone and are so classic and timeless that you can wear them with confidence no matter what the current trend. These pictured above are Ray Bans from Amazon as well and sell for as little as $75 to as much as $200+ depending on the color combination and size. Of course, this style is also available in a less expensive version from the Sunglass Shack for only $25.99.

They have only four different color options for the lenses, unlike real Ray Ban Aviators that come in literally dozens of color combinations for frames and lenses. I recommend trying on lots of different colors to find the ones that work best for you. That's certainly an argument for buying name-brand because you can find the exact size and color that will be most flattering on your face shape, size and skin tone. However, if a less expensive version works well for you, then that's fabulous, too!

The bottom line with any sunglass style trend is that you should only participate if the style truly looks good on you. Some sunglasses are a bad idea no matter who you are. And don't forget to opt for polarized lenses whenever possible. Trust me, your eyes will thank you. Now for some fun. Can you name the celebrity who made the following sunglass styles famous? Leave a comment to guess.

 

1.)

2.)

3.)

4.)

5.)

6.)

Have a great day, everyone!