Unrequited Love: Tassel Jewelry

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A more playful take on statement jewelry has been popping up in the form of swingy tassel earrings, bracelets and necklaces. The global-inspired look is available in a multitude of colors, lengths and styles. From colorful bracelets and shoulder-grazing danglers to simple rope pendants, finding a piece of tassel jewelry to fit your style and budget is a cinch. Here are a few favorites.

1. Isabel Marant: Asphalt Cowboy Necklace: $342.00

2. Max & Chloe: Ali NY Silver Traveler Tassel Earrings: $60.00

3. Lucy Folk: Jasmine Flower Braided Bracelets: $72.00

4. Max & Chloe: Ali NY Gold City Tassel Belcher Bracelet: $70.00

5. J.Crew: Double-Tassel Necklace: $62.00

Spring Shoe: Single Strap

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Showcased in many Spring and Fall runways is the single strap heel. Also known as the ankle strap, these shoes are classic, simple and chic.

The ankle strap heel can be found in a multitude of variations. From chunky heels to ornate details, this strappy heel is super versatile and wearable.

I love the simplicity of the single strap. Even in bold and bright colors, the design is classic. This shoe can be worn with everything. Great when wanting to show-off some leg, the small detail makes any pair of shoes slightly more flattering. The strap draws attention to the ankle, the thinnest part of the leg. Thinner = longer in this equation.

Available in a wide array of colors and styles, here are a few of my favorite single strap heels:

Alexander Wang ~ Antonia Sandal: $495.00

Manolo Blahnik ~ Chaos Cuff Sandal: $695.00

Prabal Gurung for Target ~ Ankle Strap Pump: $39.99

ASOS ~ Hollywood Heeled Sandals: $69.83

Festive Finds: Party Pumps

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This holiday season prance around in some party pumps. Perfect for dressing up a simple LBD or adding something extra to a conservative work affair, party-ready pumps will help you put your best foot forward this holiday season.

Available in a variety of styles, there is a a pair for every aesthetic and festive dress code. From eye-catching glitter and holiday red to lush velvet and quirky embellishments, party pumps will add even more sparkle to the season.

After the holidays, don’t store your shoes away just yet. These shoes make a great counterpart to casual boyfriend jeans, trendy jogger pants, shorts and/or skirts. They are also an instant conversation starter and ice-breaker at any function.

Here are a few festive finds that are sure to be the center of any holiday party:

Left Column:

J.Crew ~ Everly Cap Toe Glitter Pumps: $265.00

MICHAEL Michael Kors ~ ‘York’ Mary Jane Pump: $149.95

Miu Miu ~ Glitter-Finished Leather Pumps: $413.00 (sale)

Right Column:

Kate Spade ~ ‘Lenora’ Pump: $365.00

Valentino Couture ~ Bow d’Orsay Pump: $675.00

Alice+Olivia ~ Dina Suede Pumps: $295.00

How To: Curly Hair

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I am one of those girls with naturally curly hair that constantly styles it straight. Even if I want the look of curly hair – I will use styling tools before committing to my curly birthright. Embracing your natural hair type will not only save time, but save the health of your hair as well.

My curls are not beautiful shiny, spiral tendrils – more like kinky/frizzy non-uniform curls that are impossible to control. Recently, I have decided to embrace my natural curls and experiment with products and techniques to make the impossible… possible. After many ditch efforts I finally found a regimen that transforms even the frizziest frock into luscious locks.

HOW TO:

‣‣‣ Apply mousse to towel dried hair, concentrating on the roots. This will add volume and definition. Favorite: Kenra Glaze Mousse 13

‣‣‣ Next add a styling cream. Favorite: Kenra Curl Defining Cream 5. This will separate and define curls – leaving them shiny and frizz-free.

‣‣‣ A simple hairdryer is not compatible with curly hair because its nozzle directs too much air at each curl, deflating it’s volume and shape. A diffuser attachment provides a steady source of heat without the pressure of a standard nozzle. Each curl will remain formed and maintain its natural body. Favorite: Elchim Cocoon Bi-Diffuser

‣‣‣ While diffusing hair, scrunch and twist random sections around finger to “assist” the shape.

‣‣‣ Add a bit of styling cream to dry curls for additional definition and shine.

‣‣‣ Next day curls can drop and/or vanish – try using a curl spray to “activate” curls back to life. Favorite: Kenra Curl Spray 8

TIPS:

• Curly hair has strong disulphide bonds because of the natural structure of the hair proteins, with which a person with curly hair is born. All hair, however, curly or not, has hydrogen bonds, which are not strong enough alone to draw the hair into a curl. But once you “break” them by wetting your hair, you can “train” them to act like disulphide bonds with heat, at least temporarily.

• Curly hair should never be brushed. On wet hair a brush may tear or stretch fragile strands and on dry hair it will separate and diffuse the curls, thus creating frizz.

• Avoid over-handling curly hair. If you touch curls as they dry you will disturb their natural pattern and create unwanted volume and frizz.

Statement Sandals: Graphics

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From abstract florals to eye-catching ikat, summer sandals are getting graphic. Found in an overwhelming array of colors, styles, prints and patterns, complete any outfit with a bold statement sandal.

Keeping it neutral. Make these statement shoes the focal point of the ensemble by keeping the rest of the pieces neutral and/or monochromatic.

Mixing prints. Sometimes the best combinations are the ones that do not seem suitable. There are no rules here, only to look for prints and textures in complementary color families. The pieces do not have to coordinate exactly, but there should be a common theme.

Spice up your wardrobe with some vibrant graphics. Here are few of my favorite stand-out sandals.

Zara ~ Fabric Sandal: $99.90

Theodora & Callum ~ Hippie Heel: 229.99 (sale)

Loeffler Randall ~ Dita Platform Pump: $425.00

BCBGeneration ~ Hosanna: $87.99 (sale)

Alice + Olivia ~ Juliet Platform Wedge Sandal: $295.00

Cynthia Vincent ~ Naomi Aztec-Printed Platform Wedge Sandal: $197.00 (sale)

Fringe Benefits: The Clutch

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The fringe clutch is a perfect accessory for day or night. Available in bright or muted colors, shapes and styles, it is a great twist on the classic clutch. The lush cascade of leather and suede fringe create movement and personality. Carrying this item will instantly add texture and style to any ensemble. Embrace your inner free-spirit and bohemian sensibility with a fringe clutch.

ASOS ~ River Island Suede Fringe Clutch: $53.72

Nordstrom ~  Tory Burch ‘Sawla’ Fringe Clutch: $234.00

Endless.com ~ Tylie Malibu Lizzy FL1506 Clutch: $225.00

House of Harlow 1960 ~ Red Fringe Clutch: No Longer Available

The Trend Boutique ~ JJ Winters Suede Fringe Clutch: $297.00

Back to Basics: Layering Favorites

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Layering articles of clothing is not only practical but stylish. The art of layering will create insulation to keep you warm but will also lay the foundation for a very versatile wardrobe.

Start with your favorite basics. When shopping for basics, buy for comfort and quality. This will ensure getting the most wear out of the article of clothing. Then… buy in quantity. If you love a particular piece – purchase in different colors, patterns or styles.

For instance,  H&M tanks and camis are great – they are cheap, come in an array of colors/patterns and are made long in length. It is quite difficult to find a good tank, long enough to cover the bum when wearing leggings or tights. These tanks will also layer beautifully under just about anything, without any added bulk.

Old Navy is another great place to find layering basics. I love the light-weight v-necks and crew-necks. They are soft, comfortable, inexpensive and come in great basic colors. I wear them everywhere from the gym to work. On their own, accessorized with a great scarf or layered under a sequin/leather/boyfriend blazer to create a textured-casual look.

When it comes to quality, Splendid and KAIN Label, are unbeatable. They both provide silk blend basics that are extraordinarily comfortable and styles that are continuously on trend each season. These are the best basic pieces to collect each season, that will last a lifetime.

What are your favorite basics?

Weekend Ensemble: Ella Moss

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In the winter, layering is key. Be on the lookout for a great vest. Currently, there are so many different styles and textures to choose from; faux fur, leather, suede, long, cropped, draped, asymmetrical. Think of your body type when choosing a vest, cropped and belted vests can overwhelm the frame. Lengthen your silhouette with a longer style or darker color.

This weekend, experiment with layers and add a vest. Weather it be menswear-inspired or 70’s-inspired furs, it will be a great in-vest-ment.

Have a great weekend!

Ashling

5 under $50: Rompers

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On trend for this summer is the Romper. This item is a current favorite due to it’s versatility, easily reborn from day to night, as well as from casual to upscale. A Romper can be worn as a cover-up to the beach or simply out running errands. Pair with a fitted blazer or sequin jacket for nighttime as well as ankle boots or a great set of heels. The most practical way to accessorize a Romper is with a belt. Choose from thick waisted belts, men’s leather belts, tassel belts or chain belt, each one with create a whole new look. These one-piece wonders come in various fabrics, patterns, styles and fits. Here are a few great buys all under $50.oo.

Tillys Full Tilt Ruffle Romper – $19.99

Forever 21 One Shoulder Romper – $22.90

Volcom Ready to Romp Romper – $29.99

Delias Khaki Floral Tube Romper – $27.50

MATIX Generosity Womens Romper – $28.97