Peace, Love, & Boho

Its a Bohemian kind of spring this season, with the hippie chic looks taking over. When you think Boho, think of peasanty blouses, floral prints (like last weeks look), loose fitted dresses, and an overall casual yet stylish look paired with a somewhat conservative piece like a skirt or vest.

....Or you can just think of Nicole Richie, a fashionista who is a Boho beauty wherever she goes. She recently launched her own line of jewelery "House of Harlow" which has influence from the Indian and African heritage with a little bit of '60s and '70s flair. The pieces are a bit on the pricey side but you can shop the look at shopkitson.com or find similar pieces at forever21.com.

The maxi dress is one spring trend I am finally falling for. Its comfortable, stylish, and easy to wear for any occasion. Like I said in last weeks post, it is perfect for throwing on when your on your way out and just don't have time to pick out an outfit. It is also a part of the Boho look with the many prints and styles it comes in.

<--- Shop forever21.com to find this Boho paisley maxi dress for only $22.80!

The Bohemian style has evolved over the years, coming a long way from the 1960s. It also has been influenced by the European and gypsy clothing trends of the 19th century. As a romantic style, it comes off as artsy, ethinic, and casual. Sometimes these looks are made from natural materials like linen and cotton, and some lines even try to "green" their looks by using these organic material and donating portions of their proceeds to their nature foundations.

For example, this boho friendly bag "Green is the new Black" can be purchased for $21 and having $1.50 sent straight to the World Wildlife fund. For more information visit babygirlboutique.com or worldwildlife.org.


There is really no limit when it comes to this trend. It allows room to express your own individual style and personality when wearing the Boho patterns. Whethers its flowers, fringe, pastels, or feathers - this style is emerging as one of the favorites of stores this season.

• Tip of the Week: Belt it out! These latest looks of over-sized dresses and flowey tops sometimes can take over and dominate your figure. You have to make sure not to get lost in these long dresses and loose materials. They are very forgiving when it comes to the way they fit but if you are trying to show off your waist line make sure to accessorize with a belt. A belt can add so much to an outfit and create a slimmer look whether it is tiny and thin to add flair or a thick stretchy belt to add dimension. Lauren Conrad wears this look well --->
  

Your Wardrobe... In Full Bloom

Floral prints have been a big hit this Spring season. Seems a little cliche, flower prints in spring right? Well this season the designers are not joking around with these prints. They are bringing this cliche trend back and in a bold way. This is no longer a look for grandmom; it is hitting the runways everywhere and celebrities have been caught recently rocking the latest designs. Whether it is a traditional flower print or an artistic abstract print in warm colors, everyone can find their own way to have this look compliment their spring wardrobe.

From floral dresses, to flowy skirts, to the latest accessories- anyone can pull of this hot look, especially on a budget.

Florals can be worn in many ways and for all occasions. Try this look at a day in the park, a friends wedding, or even as business casual at work. <--- Check out this print dress from Newport-News.com on sale for $49.



If you think the bold trend is a bit too much, try a floral accessory like this bag from New York and Company. This bag is a perfect size- big enough for those items you need to bring out or school books on you way to class. Pick it up at the mall for only $26.95! --->



Lindsay Lohan and Jessica Simpson are wearing two of the hottest trends of the season, combining the maxi dress with the floral print. Linday's is along the tropical side while Jessica's is a traditional rose print. Either way is a fun fresh look to add to your everyday attire. When you just can't put an outfit together, these dresses are the perfect thing to throw on- on your way out the door.

Be sure to jump on the floral bandwagon this season because this trend can make any woman feel feminine and chic. And of course the best part is that there are affordable options out there to keep us shopping !

• Tip of the Week: As the weather warms up, its important to remember that sun rays can be strong even if its not that hot out. Try a fashionable approach to protecting your skin by adding a spring hat to your outfit. Anyone can pull this look off and you can feel good wearing it knowing your keeping your face and head in the shade on a sunny day. (Hat by Diane Von Furstenberg, Spring 09 Runway show)
  

All About the Ruffles!

Bring out your girly side this spring with the latest trend taking over the stores.... RUFFLES! You can find them anywhere on pretty much anything this season. Tops, dresses, shoes, and purses are among the cutest looks.

Grab the look off the runway and into your closet... but for a cheaper price! --> Bill Blass Designs


Pastels and ruffles go perfect together in this tank from Victoria's Secret. Throw a cardigan over this look and your ready for a fabulous spring day.
<--- Victoriassecret.com on sale for $49.50

Or try a similar pastel pink tank from Charolette Russe at just $17.99! Charoletterusse.com --->


The great thing about ruffles is that you can take them from your everyday on the town look to your office business casual look. Dress up ruffles with black pants and a small shrug and you're good to go.


From tops to bottoms, ruffles can be found anywhere- even shoes. Pair these yellow ruffly shoes with a cute spring dress to spice it up and make the outfit stand out.

Check out target.com and get them for under $20 --->

• Tip of the Week: There's nothing better then shopping in your own closet. Half the time you don't realize whats in there anyway. Grab that shirt that has the tag still on it, add a cute scarf and pair it with a pair of your favorite denim and you have a new outfit. If that doesn't sound like a good idea... Head to mom, or better yet grandmom. Recently I've found some classic costume jewelery that I could never find in a store, that my grandmom was going to throw away. Mom also went through the 80's.. so you never know if there is some old leggings stored up in the attic just waiting to be worn again, but this time.. by you!

Take A Walk On The Wild Side!

So far this season we have seen the bold and beautiful neon colors of the Spring, but the animalistic prints are moving in and making their mark. Zebra or cheetah? Either print works and its all the rage on the floors of a store near you. Sit back and relax as I take you on a fashion safari of the wildest prints for the budgeted fahionista.


Two tone dresses are one of my favorite trends of the season. Usually you will find a colorblock design of 2 solid colors on these dresses but keeping up with the call of the wild trend, an animal print works well also.
<--- Get this look for just $19.80 at forever21.com


As mentioned in a prior week, scarves are the perfect accessories for every spring outfit. Check out these celebrities rocking not only 1 but 2 of our favorite spring 09 trends. --->

Get a similar, budget friendly scarf at Bebe at bebe.com for just $29.






So if you're taking a walk on the wild side, you want your feet to be looking fabulous as well. From top to bottom, animal print is taking over. These giraffe print shoes are the perfect finish to any brown/tan/creme spring dress. Find them online at guess.com.

• Tip of the Week: Spring cleaning? Take a trip through your closet and start recycling. With the rough economic times, what better way to save money then to recycle your winter clothes into your spring wardrobe? Don't fold away that winter cardigan just yet- add it onto a floral spring dress and your ready for a cool night on the town. Dark denim jeans? Fold up the bottoms and make them into the popular trend of the boyfriend jeans or capri look. Your own closet can be a shopping spree on its own; mixing and matching the old with the new leading to many outfit choices you would have never realized you had.
  

Q&A with Cynthia Nellis

Cynthia Nellis, fashion journalist for About.com, has been advising women for the last nine years on how to get the best look for their body and the best prices for their budgets. She has worked in many different parts of the fashion industry including seven years as a buyer. Her goal is to help you look your best, even if you are low on time, money, and self-confidence. I got the chance to interview Nellis and ask her a couple questions the average aspiring fashionista might have on their mind.

LQ: What inspired you to provide your help to women in need of fashion advice?

CN: It seems like no matter how much info is out there, women are still overwhelmed by fashion and shopping for looks that work for them. I wanted to help demystify fashion and give women to-the-point advice.

LQ: What are some of your own personal shopping tips to avoid going over-budget in a bad economy?

CN: Shop a look, rather than a label. Although I’d love to buy Christian Louboutin’s $1000-plus buckle sandals, I’ll be looking for similar shoes with buckle details. It really is possible to find the latest trends at every price point.

LQ: Where is your favorite store to shop for the best chic but cheap items?

CN: I think that most stores have a great find or two if you really know your own style and what will work for you. I tend to shy away from really trendy looks and focus on more timeless pieces.

LQ: What are your favorite key essentials needed in everyone’s Spring 2009 wardrobes?

CN: Some of my spring picks include color (especially bright pink), a softer pant, geometric prints and something with a 3D effect (anything from appliqués to ruffles.)

LQ: What are some recent fashion trends you have noticed that people should try to avoid falling into?

CN: I’m not a big fan of the maxi dress. Guess I just saw it on one too many middle-age moms last summer… On the right girl with the right body, it’s cute, but it’s not a universal trend anyone can wear. I think this year we’ll see some of the same problems with jumpsuits and harem pants: great new ideas, but difficult for women with real bodies to pull off.

LQ: Reading your bio, you have been very successful in different aspects of the fashion industry. What have been some highlights of your career thus far?

CN: I was a buyer for a regional women’s chain, but that was only one of the many retail jobs I did working my way up. I also did visual merchandising for all the stores, and that was great experience to really learn how to put looks together. By far the best job – one that has used my retail and journalism experience together – is being the Guide to Women’s Fashion on About.com. I’m about to celebrate my 10th anniversary there, and I’ve loved every minute.

LQ: The fashion industry seems like a very competitive industry. What advice would you give to someone looking to enter the business?

CN: I’m a big believer in getting a retail background. Just working in a store may not seem glamorous, but you really need hands-on experience with real women to see how they think about clothes, how they shop, what decision-making process they use for making a new purchase. Education – especially if you are entering the design end of the business – is vital, and internships – with designers or magazines – will help you shape your career goals.

Fashion Week 2009

Lauren Conrad, reality star of Laguna Beach and The Hills, has made her way to the top of the line in the fashion industry.

Her 2009 spring collection features many of the hottest looks this season. http://laurenconrad.seenon.com/index.php?v=slc-collection-spring2009

Check out the spring colors in action at Fashion Week 2009;
Fashionista Lauren Conrad launches her new line in New York City:

The Spring Colors Have Arrived!

There may still be snow on the ground, but the spring colors are in full bloom. And as you can see, they are here to make a statement- hot enough to melt any snow away. Neon pinks, limes, yellows, and royal blues are coloring spring outfits from tops to bottoms.


As you may know, the Oscars were this past Sunday. The celebs were well aware of the spring colors kicking off the season's trends. Pictured here is Natalie Portman, in a bold fuchsia strapless Rodarte gown, embellished with sparkly sequins.
-Courtesy of AOL.com

This season, the key items to shop for to complete your Spring 2009 season wardrobe are easy finds. They are essential to any outfit and are easy to pair up with many items to make additional otufits, out of less. And of course, these key items are wall friendly... which is obviously the best part!

First up, the cardigan. Stores like Forever 21 and Express have fly-away cardigans, button up cardigans, and short sleeve cardigans in all the hot colors for you to mix and match with. This is a quick solution to any outfit to dress it up, or dress it down. You can throw this over a tank top to wear to class or over a blouse to wear to work. The cardigan is easy to grab right off the hanger for that cool spring day when its just not warm enough for that super-cute new tank top.
Forever21.com --> $22.80

Next, the legging. Since it still can be a bit chilly, the legging look is the perfect addition to any Spring outfit. Wear them under a dress, a skirt, or even with a long, oversized t-shirt or tunic.
<-- $12.80 at Forever21.com

And the best for last...accessories. Scarves and gladiator sandals are flyin off the shelves of stores everywhere. You can find these wrapped around the necks and on the feet of many celebrities. Scarves are the perfect compliment to a plain top. They are Spring scarves so they are a light materia (unlike the bulky winter ones) that come in many prints and fun colors. The gladiator sandal is a strappy flat, or wedge, sandal that since last season, have become very popular. Wanna get the celebrity look for less? Here's a few styles to check out:

<--- Get these gladiator sandals for only $16.80 from forever21.com!



And this blue scarf for jut $6.50! --->

• Tip of the Week: Many stores are now having their winter blowout sales. Out with the old sweaters and in with the new tanks for the next season. This is the time to take advantage of these sales and stock up for next year. Most stores do not drastically change their styles from year to year, so pick up that $19.99 sweater now instead of paying full price for the same one next winter.