Frock Star: Which Shoes Would You Choose?

 

 

 

[dress, 1, 2]

 

 

Nail Envy: The Metallic Manicure

Gymology: Hourglass Workout

 

As a curvy girl myself, I know it's challenging to find clothing to fit and flatter your shape. You can make this process a little easier by keeping those curves as tight as possible.

Do this Hourglass Figure Workout 2-3 times through, 2-3 times a week. If you do these exercises regularly, you will definitely see a change for the better in your figure, no matter your natural shape (click the name of the exercise to see a demonstration)!

Accessorize: Fall 2013 Picks

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It's easy to update your Fall wardrobe, just get hip to accessorizing.   Check out these pieces that are right on trend for Fall/Winter 2013.  All these pieces can be worn with your existing basic black and/or white clothing (which is also hot for Fall) to take your style to the next level. 

On Screen Style: Janelle Monae

 

 

Janelle Monae looked absolutely stunning in the video for her new single, "PrimeTime".  While still sticking with the black and white color palate she's known for, it seems the songstress is exploring more feminine designs.  Case in point, the body hugging skirt set with a cropped top and midi-length skirt, paired with sky-high, two-toned ankle strap pumps.  See the video and find pieces similar to Janelle's after the jump.

Etsy-static: Daniela Tabois

Clothing designer, Daniela Tabois has a talent for making fabulous fashions in covetable fabrics. Check out her Etsy store to purchase some her unique designs.  She also has a beautiful blog, eyesofacouturier.com, which is full of  fashion ideas, inspiration and many DIY projects for you to try. Her aesthetic is best expressed in her words; "I design investment pieces that are fashion forward for women who admire artful silhouettes that are timeless for everyday living".

Nail Envy: Louboutin Nails

The Go-To Updo

My hair has been going through a weird phase lately.  I'm not sure if it's product fatigue, climate-related, in need of a trim or a combination of factors.  The result is an unusual amount of bad hair days.  Every curly girl should know that the remedy for a bad hair day is an aresenal of go-to updos. 
I've also been a fan of the goddess braid for many years. It looks great neat or messy, with a side or middle part, with accessories or plain. 

 

Here's a lovely, simple tutorial.

 

Color Crush: Autumn Orange

There is just something about the cooler weather (In Florida,79, instead of 89) that attracts me to beautiful fall tones, especially the warmth of orange. Follow my blog with Bloglovin

 

Shopping Bags: Catherine Malandrino for Kohls

Elegant, sophisticated, and chic describe the new line from Catherine Malandrino for Kohls.  This limited edition collection, inspired by Paris, is very wearable for any body type and has those little designer details that elevate the pieces.  If you need to add some stylish and affordable items to your Fall/Winter wardrobe, this line definitely delivers. 

Fall 2013 Trends: Matchy-Matchy

 

 

Who knew it would ever be en vogue to wear head-to-toe matching prints?  When I first saw this look I wasn't sure that I wanted to walk around looking like a sofa or curtains; but the more I see the street fashionistas rock the look the more attractive it becomes.  I think the best way to wear this is the a subtle print with a solid piece to break up all that print.  Retailer Clover Canyon has some of the most beautiful prints I've seen.  They are a bit pricy but I'm sure other retailers (ahem, F21) will be producing "similar" prints in the near future if the trend persists.

 

Gymology: Tight Now!

Nike's new limited edition tight will be released today and, I assume, be immediately sold out.   I just love Nike's edgy approach to fitness wear.

"The Zebra Knit Nike Tight of the Moment’s bold black stripes are inspired by cable knitting, a process that results in a braid-like look. Soft to the touch, yet high performance, the tights feature Nike Dri-FIT fabric that pulls sweat away from the body to help keep legs dry and comfortable".

Merging fashion and fitness is proving to be big business and something I hope other fitness wear companies  start to copy.
Source

Fave Five: Target Looks for Fall

 

 

See more looks here.

Clothes Call: A Touch of the Far East

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Fall 2013 Trends: Leather

 

 The Spring leather trend continues for Fall 2013. I personally love the look of leather with knits, for day. Whatever your style or budget you can find great pieces to update your wardrobe for the season.

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Hair Inspiration: The Shaped Nape

I honestly never thought of shaving the hairline at the nape of my neck. It's essential for women who have short hair but after viewing this Youtube video, I'm considering this for my longer, natural hair.  It's less drastic than shaving the sides and it looks neat and adds a bit of edge (no pun intended ; )) to those protective updo's.

Shoe Spot: Shoe Cult by Nasty Gal

 

The online retailer Nasty Gal has my attention with the launch of their very own shoe line.  I checked out the offerings they have right now and I must say that the prices, though not dirt cheap, look pretty reasonable; but the quality remains to be seen.  I'll do a shoe review if I end up purchasing any.  Right now I have my eye on the cobalt blue and black Reaction Bootie, the mesh bootie with the ankle strap ), and silver mirrored metallic bootie (both of which are not yet for sale on the site)  : (

The Wishlist: "Necklace" Phone Case

Yes, I know those gems will probably start to fall off in about 2 seconds but, I think this is the most beautiful-est phone case in the world...AND I WANT IT!

Trendspotting: Sweatshirt Chic

 

 

Sights & Sounds: Safari Wilderness

 I recently had the opportunity to go on safari...in Florida.  The Safari Wilderness Ranch has only been open for a few months, but I can already see it becoming one of the premiere tourist attractions in the state.  Located six miles north of Interstate 4 between Orlando and Tampa, this 260 acre working game ranch is a unique and delightful agritourism experience. 

 

You board one of these safari vehicles at the Visitor Center for a two hour guided tour of the ranch.

 

  

 

Most of the free roaming animals come right up to the vehicle and you're given the chance to hand feed some of them.

 

After the vehicle tour there are still many more animals to see in the enclosures and stables surrounding the Visitor Center.

The Visitor's Center sells souvenirs, like tee shirts, stuffed animals, and hats, as well as fresh eggs, milk, and even live cattle.

I highly recommend the basic tour, but other customized and private events are available.  For more information check out their website (www.safariwilderness.com)