STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Rustic Charm

 Fashion’s version of the Wild West was portrayed on runways from Ralph Lauren to Robert Cavalli. These designers used Navajo-style strips, sliver and turquoise jewelry and uptown denim. Cavalli used snakeskin leather from head to toe to embrace the Wild West with models dressed in fangs and feathers.

As most of us are not able to spend the money to pick up some of the top designers pieces, it is a trend that can be easily replicated on a more college friendly budget by cherry-picking some of the key items to depict the frontier lifestyle. This works around the staple items of denim, leather and suede in neutral shades in tan, brown and a white palette.

I spotted this Fashionista walking across campus, embodying an everyday version of this trend. I love the way she paired a midi-maxi skirt with a light denim jacket and a brown satchel to complete the look. Her use of neutral colors was simple and chic and the pop of turquoise in her belt was the perfect touch.

Urban Outfitters has a great selection of neutral dresses, both long and short, when paired with a denim jacketlike the one this Fashionista is wearing, will add a hint of rustic charm. Feathers and beading in accessories are an easy way to include a dash of color to the neutral outfit.

Keep this Fashionista in mind when trying to switch up your look. Denim, leather, and suede in neutrals are all it takes to express a bit of rustic charm.

Not All Those Who Wander Are Lost

Tuesday Blues

For what it's worth:it's never too late or, in my case, too early to be whoever you want to be. There's no time limit, stop whenever you want. You can change or say the same, there are no rules to this thing. We can make the best or the worst of it. I hope you make the best of it. And I hope you see things that startle you. I hope you meet people with a different point of view. I hope you live a life your're proud of. If you find that you're not, I hope you have the strength to start all over again. 

-Benjamin Button

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Sparkle and Shine

The first weekend in April and there is only one thing a majority of the senior class was talking about was Senior Ball, of course. Guys took out their ties while the girls talked makeup, heels and dresses for what seemed to be “Prom 2011." I found this Fashionista in a stunning sequins dress ready for her night out downtown. I love the dimension the sequins give the outfit and it was the perfect choice for the occasion. The LBD is always a great look for a formal, but when you want to stand out in a crowd go for some sparkle, just like this Fashionista.

The typical dull and monotone wardrobes of winter can be transformed this spring due to a glitter and sequin invasion. Designers have added sparkle this year to endless products from shoes to nail polish. Sparkles have always been practical for a night out but now they can be incorporated into outfits during the day. Makeup with a hint of glitter is the perfect way to add a touch of glam to an everyday look. MAC offers a wide selection of cosmetics with a hint of sparkle. Steve Madden has a pair of sparkle platform pumps that are sure to light up any night and pair of glittery oxfords to dazzle a simple day look.

If rocking a sparkly dress or heels is too over the top for you, little accessories are another way to enhance a look with sparkles. A small clutch or bold bracelet is a sublet way to incorporate the shine.

As you walk to class or into a party be bold this spring and don sparkles!

Thanks Mommy

This ad speaks to me

I feel like it is the essence of me

I Have a Lust for Life

Olivia Lo, I love you

http://www.fashionsalade.com/lusttforlife/

What Lips My Lips Have Kissed

What lips my lips have kissed, and where, and why,

I have forgotten, and what arms have lain

Under my head till morning; but the rain

Is full of ghosts tonight, that tap and sigh

Upon the glass and listen for reply,

And in my heart there stirs a quiet pain

For unremembered lads that not again

Will turn to me at midnight with a cry. 

Thus in winter strands the lonely tree,

Nor knows what birds have vanished one by one,

Yet knows its boughs more silent than before:

I cannot say what loves have come and gone,

I only know that summer sang in me

A little while, that in me sings no more. 

-Edna St. Vincent Millay