Infinite Chic

While there may be many glamorous occasions that Hollywood rolls out the red carpet for, the Academy Awards is the one we all wait in anticipation for every year.  Not only to see if our favorite movies gets nominated, but also to see what everybody wears!  This year was no exception to the glamour and stunning garments that sparkled on the red carpet to the Kodak Theater.

Overall I think that the oscar for my  favorite dress of 2009 is a tie between the High School Musical diva Vanessa Hudgens and the always stunning and elegant Natalie Portman.  Vanessa chose a beautiful mermaid frock by Marchesa , a personal favorite of mine.  The floral decor on the bodice was such a nice contrast to the deep black of the rest of the dress.  The vertical sequined striped also broke up the black of the dress creating an elegant and perfect red carpet look.  I am in love with this dress, I am assuming that we can expect many great things from this young actress on the red carpet.

Natalie, Natalie, Natalie.  As per usual, she looked amazing.  She chose very well with her pink Rodarte gown.  It created such a beautiful and sleek silhouette for her tiny figure.  I love the way the gown drapes in a somewhat grecian manner and i love the intertwining bodice with the sparkles in-between the layers.  Overall, this dress is amazing and such a beautiful color.  I also love that there is not an onslaught of jewelry to take away from this gorgeous dress!  The dark nail polish is edgy and fun, I love the look.  Bravo Natalie, you are always a winner!

A few other winners of the evening; Amy Adams and Taraji Henson.  Amy went with a stunning crimson Carolina Herrera dress with beautiful draping in the front.  This color was such a wonderful choice for her complexion and her pale skin.  Many people have said that her necklace threw off the look of the gown, but I think that it is a really fun accessory.  It adds more color to her look, especially because her hair and dress are red.  I love the dark piping on the bodice, I think it is those small details that make this dress really shine.

Taraji looks amazing!  I love this Roberto Cavalli dress with the bandaged look, but more fabric giving it a more elgant feel.  The color is beautiful on her and I love her simple, sassy hairstyle.  This dress is truly a work of art.  It seems to flutter at the edges and the train falls perfectly with an air of grace and true elegace.  The red clutch is a striking contrast which I think adds to her look along with her oversized, glitzy necklace.  While it is not something I think I could pull off, I think that the simplicity of her dress and hair makes the necklace stand out in a good way.  Love the dress, love the look!

Last, but definitely not least, Anne Hathaway was quite a stunner is her Armani Prive dress.  There is so much detailing on this garment!  I love that it is all sparkles and it is the perfect mix of old Hollywood and modern day red carpet looks!  It is so becoming on her and the way it flares are the bottom is such a pretty silhouette.  I think we will probably be seeing a lot more of this silhouette this year, it is definitely a winner! 

All of these fine ladies made the cut for my favorites list, but there were many more stunning stars out there this year.  Can’t wait for next year!  The Academy’s fashion just wiped away my winter blues…I don’t know about you!

Summer is a busy time for everyone, whether working or playing, relaxing or keeping up to speed. This is why shoes are so important because most of us are always on our feet doing lots of fun activities these summer months. So why not live in style and branch out from the classic flip flop to a classy, strappy, no heel sandal. Inspired by gladiator style sandals, this new style is very popular, I’ve seen them EVERYWHERE from EVERY DIFFERENT BRAND you could possibly imagine. Because of this you can find them in all price ranges which is a definite plus.

I’ve decided that this is my favorite summer shoe of all time. The Coach Sari sandal is a fun way to turn your outfit from summer grunge to fabulous in less than a minute. Plus it comes in so many good colors that will go with just about anything. My personal favorite colors would be the gold and the turquoise, but it is definitely a tough call. I also really like that the brand name is kind of understated and worked into the design of the shoe and the flower is to die for. I’ve found my summer fling!

My second favorite are these Azucar gold sandals by Steve Madden. In the same spirit of the coach beauties above, these are a little strappier in design but just as classy. I love the straps over the toe and the gold color seems the be the it color for shoes this season. I had to own these because they are fairly inexpensive and the perfect addition to a summer linen skirt and blouse, not to mention they are very comfortable.

I’m pretty sure this isn’t the first time these Frye Dani sandals have made an appearance in my blog posts. These are a little different because of the jewel detailing. The colors are very fun and work well together which makes it easy to match these shoes to almost any summer outfit. I also love the t-strap style, it is one of my new favorites for strappy sandals.

Whichever way you choose to go, go with class and beauty. Both of these can be achieved by buying a new pair of strappy sandals to be by your side for the rest of the summer season. As I said, these are just a few of the options out there, shop around a bit before you buy! You’ll be surprised how many different variations there really are.

I don’t know about you but I get inspired when the sun comes out to visit. Thank goodness we’ve been lucky enough to have some nice summer weather this early in the season. There are so many new styles that come out with summer that I think it’s about time to do the summer must haves list, so here is how it is going to work. There are so many different categories for summer accessories and looks that I’m going to do the top three in each specific category. Spice up your summer season with some fresh new in styles that are a must have for every person everywhere.

Staying true, the first category on the list is a new pair of sweet shades to protect your eyes from the blazing rays of the sun. They are a very important part of the summer because they not only look great but provide the much needed eye protection that we all need because I know that all of us are guilty of ravishing the sun in all its glory sooner or later.

If you ask me these definitely win summer’s cutest sunglasses of the season. Not only are they brightly colored but they are a great shape and not too huge but not too small. They also come in a bright turquoise and mother of pearl. Dior has definitely done it this time!

Ray-ban is sweeping the nation….AGAIN! These vintage inspired sunglasses are making a comeback and are arriving in full force. Personally, I would wear them if they didn’t look completely ridiculous on me, I just can’t quite get the look for them. But I love them on other people, and I love the unique shape of them. Totally sweet and love the fun colors they come in.

Looking for a more sleek look rather than chunky or laid back like the last two choices? Try these rimless Dolce and Gabbana beauties. I really like the sleek, sexy look they have going for them and personally I love this style sunglasses I think the really compliment most face types. You just need to muster up the attitude to go with them.

Be courageous and choose that style that you wouldn’t normally choose! Summer is about adventure and having fun and this is no exception for your look.

I sometimes forget that the clothing and accessories I choose to put on are making a statement to others. Everything you wear is an expression of your creativity, values and fashion. When people look at the way you hold yourself and what you pick out to wear what do you want them to think? Many companies have started promoting green campaigns, fashionable and environmentally conscious. As I’ve mentioned before there are a lot of super cute clothes that are organically made, a little pricier because of their natural upbringing, but very good quality. Lately, a lot of well known clothing companies have jumped on the bandwagon and are expressing their ecologically conscious message through a variety of fun ways. Their message is not only a good one, but the way they are pioneering this revolution is unique and clever.

Juicy Couture happens to be one of my favorite names in the business and I was really excited when they started going in a bit of a different direction (slowly but surely.) Their usual stuff is very girly, pink and over the top, which in some cases is an awesome way to express their style. These earrings and necklace set are really fun while conveying a message. Peace signs have been popping up a lot lately, Juicy is not the only one using this popular sign. But the fact that a higher end name is makes it interesting. I think I would buy and wear this set, its simple and girly but still expresses a good message.

This jewelry set is an example that higher price points aren’t the only companies that use this message. These can be found at Forever 21 and in a couple price points down the ladder. I think these are very fun, I have never really seen the recycling sign used for jewelry before. Definitely on other accessories, but these are different than I’ve seen everywhere else. They come in silver and gold, depending on your preference and are a fun accessory for a very affordable price. If someone had pitched the idea of making these earring i would’ve definitely been skeptical, but now that I see them I think they are really cute and might actually buy them!

Jewelry is not the only area where these awesome messages can be sent, in this case more font and words are used to send a more blunt and handcrafted message. Juicy strikes again with this fun shirt adding some spice to your average “go green” slogan. Props to them for making this idea work with the rest of their collection! The tote is from American Eagle and sends a more intricate message than your graphic recycle sign by itself would. It is made of natural burlap which also enforces the natural message.

In addition to the stores and designers we already know, it’s fun to check out the breakout designers in the field of organic clothing production. This company is called Zooey and Love and Eight, all of their clothing is made from natural, organic materials including bamboo! Their shirts are fun and cute, and the messages they send make a impact. As if that isn’t enough, two dollars from every sale goes to benefit the organization Healthy Child Healthy World. Talk about doing their good deed for the day. I love their slogan “Think Green B Cool”, it not only sends a positive message about conserving our resources, but it also relates it to the world of fashion we are immersed in.

This past year has been a green one for Barneys New York. I already blogged on their awesome green holiday campaign and they have now taken it to a new level for spring 2008. Over the week of April 17-23, they made an offer shoppers couldn’t refuse. By bringing in your old, used t-shirts, you would get 20% off of their latest showcased organic line Loomstate. The t-shirts are to be taken and fashioned into an exclusive Loomstate Holiday Line to premier this coming Christmas. Sound pretty awesome right? Not only are they promoting organic goods but they are actually recycling our oldies into fun new clothes! I’m really impressed by the effort they’ve put into this new “Big Green Apple” idea, they seem to go above and beyond other companies idea of being eco-friendly. I’m also excited because they will be the example to all of us that looking chic doesn’t mean we can’t be environmentally friendly. Go green, be cool and think organic!

…or feet, whichever you choose. Sandal season has come upon us (even though the Seattle weather might not always be the best for it.) It is time to dig out the flip flops and sandals, and if you’re like me you need to go out and get a few new pairs to replace the ones who show the wear from last years summer season. Be different this year, or go with a new color, whichever you decide, go bold. There are a million different styles to choose from, especially this year when a few more have been added and nothing has gone out.

Something to consider when buying summer shoes is comfort. It is very important because most of the time we all wear sandals with absolutely no arch support and we often choose look over comfort. Not to mention the cost of comfort is a little more spendy, but it is worth it. For instance, I’ve always worn the skinny little, almost nothing, flip flops for as long as I can remember. I also try to forget about the aching and how rough the condition of my feet was during those months. Last summer I spent a little more ad bought Rainbows (on the left) when I was on vacation, and I hate to be cliché; but they changed my life. They have great arch support, they work well with casual summertime outfits, and I found that because I was taking care of my feet it was easier to wear the occasional cute-but-not-comfortable flip flops. If you must have something a little more traditional flip flop, Havaianas (on the right) don’t have incredible arch support, but are definitely more comfortable than most. Not to mention they come in more colors and styles than you can count and can go casual or with a dress or skirt.

If you’re tired of the same old flip-flops and ready to try something new (but old at the same time) Jellies are back. Jellies are a fun way to show a little spunk with your casual or dressy outfits in the spring or summer. They come is almost every color you could ever imagine, and just as many designs. You can get ones with large or small holes, different shapes and different weights. They also come in many different price points. On the left is your classic style by MIA, (they can be purchased as Zappos.com.) They are simple, colorful and fun. Kate Spade updated the style on the right and made it more unique, while still using the same fun, bright themes. They are a great way to update your summer style while still being casual.

Sometimes sticking to your guns is the only way to do it. If you’re happy and comfortable with the colorful, traditional flip-flop look, go for it. Personally, Old Navy flip-flops have always been my favorite in that category. They are simple, colorful and cheap, so you can get a different pair for every occasion and not be upset when they wear out because you can just switch to another pair or go grab a new one!

Whatever goes with you summer style; whether it be comfort, traditional or daringly different, wear it with pride. Sometimes it’s good to keep a pair of each in your closet, just for emergencies or for when you wake up wanting a change. I know I can’t wait for summer, THE COUNTDOWN HAS BEGUN.

I don’t know about you, but I feel like I am eternally searching for the pulled together, spectacular, flattering look. Now that it is spring, after years of searching, I feel like I’ve finally found it. I’ve been looking for something along the lines of JCrew, but not as stiff. Something proper with the essence of Kate Spade, but a little more bohemian. Something that looks rumpled, yet still pressed and appropriate. Kind of like Martin and Osa, but with more prints and color. Every one of these qualities can be found in Anthropologie. In the same family company as Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie is like the more sophisticated, older sibling to the grunge and angst of Urban. There is an air of whimsy and subtle sexiness about every piece in the store. If you’re looking for a new look that embodies class, propriety and taste, yet is still laid back, colorful and fun, here you go.

Both of these outfits look very pulled together yet still beachy and fun. They create the perfect image for summer, yet still leave some things to the imagination. These are perfect examples of how you can be completely covered and wear loosely fitting clothes and still look incredible sexy and summery. I think a lot of people view the summer months as an opportunity to wear practically nothing and get away with it, here is the glamorous alternative. Something else I like about these outfits are the earthy tones and how they compliment the overall look. Even the brighter colors are muted and work well with the browns and whites.

Take something generic and make it your own. Both the cardigan and jacket are styles we’ve seen a to of this spring. BUT the different is that the fit and embellishments have been changed to give the basic trend a makeover. I love the flower embroidery on the sweater, I think it really enhances the piece. I also like that the colors are not over the top, once again they use earthy tones to balance out the bright blue of the rest of the sweater. The flirty details on the jacket like the tabs on the sleeves and the ruffles around the edges really change the entire feel of the piece. Even though it is all one color, the jacket stands out by itself and because its fairly simple it will not overpower anything you wear it with.

Now to my favorite part…shoes. One thing I love about the summery weather is the chance to wear a pair of girly sandals or espadrilles. Summer shoes really complete your whole outfit, whether they are brightly colored or muted earth tones, or a little bit of both. I love the embellished sandals on the left, once again all earthy looking colors really emulate the summer feeling to me. I like that they are not your typical thong sandal, but instead have a new, updated design. I am in love with the wedges on the right. I think that they have just the right balance between girly and simple qualities. I like the daisy embroidery the best and the way the yellow centers of the flowers stand out against the black and white. SO CUTE.

Another thing to add to the laundry list of qualities I love about Anthropologie; the fact that it’s not just a line of clothing. You can get absolutely everything at this store. It helps create more of a lifestyle than just a way to dress, (LITERALLY, there is furniture, kitchen supplies and everything you could possibly need to live a n Anthropologie driven life.) While I’m sticking to the fashion side of things, they have quite an array of accessories. Both these belts and bags have strong, bold colors and prints. They are the perfect accessories to match with the subtly accented clothes in earth tones. I also really like the wood accents on the belts and the woven bags, they are a very cute use of natural materials.

Finally, putting it all together. There are two great sections on the website titled outfits and points of view. They both feature great ways to incorporate accessories and pieces of clothing in unique ways. It is a great place to get ideas about how you could wear the items in real life. I love both of these outfits, the one on the left is really fun with the bright color accents and the red flats. I like how they matched the shoes to the accents on the sweater. I really like the overall look of the outfit on the right, especially the floral print on the skirt. They colors work really well together and the beige beads really stand out against the wine colored blouse. Both of these look really complete and pulled together. I think I’ve finally found what I’ve been looking for, the perfect summer look!

In the words of Tyra, who wants to be fierce? Fierce has many different meanings, in her case its talking about being someone that stands out. In my case it’s about making your outfit stand out. Over the past couple years animal prints have been coming back in. I’m not talking about going overboard, I’m talking about how a little animal instinct can spice up your outfit in a good way. Accessories are the best way to add flair; bright colors, bold patterns and interesting prints. It is always fun to experiment with new shoes, purses and jewelry and to take a walk on the wild side. You can never have too many accessories, so it is OK to get something a little bit outside of your comfort zone.

Because shoes are my favorite we’ll start there. I would have to say that i love leopard print shoes, they are chic and adorable. I was a little hesitant about them when they first started showing up a couple years ago but definitely warmed up to them in the end. I think they look best with solid colors, especially black and blue, but they can be paired with almost any color as long as the patterns aren’t too invasive. Betsey Johnson on the left, I LOVE THESE SHOES. I can’t get enough of them. Pair them with a cute summer dress and you’re set to go. On the right is Charles by Charles David. I think these are cute for summer too because of the cork wedge. They are fun and more daring than your usual summer sandal.

Next we have bags, my second favorite thing to buy a million of. An important thing to remember is that leopards are not the only wild animal with a bold and beautiful print that inspires fashion designers everywhere. While leopard is the most popular print off of the safari, I love the idea of expanding to other great sources for prints. For example, on the right is Dooney and Bourke from the Giraffe collection. I think it is so creative and cute. They did a really good job with the colors and the print design. On the left is a chic cheetah prink bag made by LAMB by Gwen Stefani. She uses a more stylized version of the print which makes it a little different than the rest out there.

Betsey Johnson strikes again with her awesome, unique accessory repertoire. She is really good at making her pieces bold and striking, but not overpowering. She uses really intense and concentrated prints that would usually make small accessories look sloppy and too busy, but with her creative style she always manages to make them look fabulous. Both of these pairs of earrings are Betsey and I think they both are really well done. The zebra print on the left is another example of avoiding the typical leopard and choosing to be different.

I know I’ve been throwing the “L” word around a lot lately, but I feel like it is the only way to express how I feel about all of the great trends we have out there right now. An example of this: bangles. They have bee around for decades and are still in full swing. I really enjoy all of the variations and colors you can get, chunky, sterling, neon etc. Animal print is no exception to the rule. These bangles are really fun and a great way to subtly accessorize an outfit and take a small step onto the wild side without jumping right in. The bangles on the left are Sequin and I think that the colors are really pretty and mesh very well together. The bracelets on the left are Dolce and Gabbana, and are a little more flashy than your normal bangles. Whichever way you choose to go, it will accent your style in the perfect way.

You might need some of those sunglasses to read this next blog! NEWS FLASH: neon is no longer only for blacklight parties and construction workers, anyone can sport this trendy look. Some people may say that the ’80s are out, but if they are referring to neon they are very very wrong. Although these bright colors mirror the ’80s trends, now and improved ways of wearing these colors to best accent your look have showed up alongside the vintage stylings.
The number one reason that makes it acceptable to wear neon clothing and accessories is that even our top dogs in fashion are doing it! Neon has definitely been seen on the runways in the last year, connected with big names like Moschino, Prada, La Perla and Dolce & Gabbana. Check it out-

See–there has got to be something to it if these designers are picking neons up and making them fabulous! Not to say that they are the first ones sporting the trend because I know for a fact there are a bunch of “I-wore-it-before-it-was-popular’s” out there, not to mention the generations preceding our time that worked the 80s fashions.

I’ll dive right into this neon craze with blue. I love blue, since I could choose things for myself blue has been my all time favorite color. This season I’ve been so delighted to find so many BRIGHT and BOLD shades in my color choices. I love both of these outfits, the left on is Moschino and the right it Burberry Prorsum. The left picture is more of a true neon blue because of it’s lighter and brighter tone. I had to include the one on the right because I think it is a perfect example of how neons have affected the colors we wear today. Although it is a solid, classic royal blue, it is also different than the traditional shade because it is more shocking and bold than previous similar shades.

Alrighty, now that we’ve seen what fashion’s brilliant minds did with neons, what can you do in your life? First of all, neons can be found in all different price points. Whether you’re shopping at Saks or at your local party store (a GREAT place to find funky neon jewelry.) For example, the bag on the left is Marc Jacobs and can be purchased at Nordstorm. I love the acid green color of this bag, I actually like the entire style. I think it is very unique and it will definitely turn heads. On the right are flip flops sold at American Eagle. If you’re looking for a little something to brighten your look, but not ready to shock them, go with these cute summer sandals. If yellow is not your color, both the bag and shoes come in a variety of different neon colors, there has got to be one in there that suits you.

I mentioned before that my favorite color since I was very little is blue, but as I’ve grown older I’ve definitely come to appreciate pink more. In fact, I would say that I’ve gone through pink phases the last couple years and been completely obsessed with the color. I love colorful accessories, which is why I’m crazy in love with this neon pink accessory craze that has hit us in the last few years. On the left we have plastic neon sunglasses from Urban Outfitters, notorious for using neons in their lines for YEARS. The glasses look straight out of the 80s, they are not only fun, but vintage, minus the wear, too. On the right American Eagle strikes again with this classic, simple, colorful belt. This is one of those items that you can wear year round but in the summer it hits it’s peak. I love this style of belt, it provides just a little color and has the ability to complete an outfit in less than 5 seconds.

If you’re not ready to take the step into wearing large amounts of neon colors in your outfit, try a little sneak preview on your toes or fingers. I think neon nail polish is my first choice in summer shades. I love the little bit of bright color it adds so subtly (yes I just used neon and subtle in the same sentence.) It really is subtle because its not a giant chunk of color, its little delicate patches. In fact, the last time I went in for a pedi I got this electrifying pink put on and have gotten more compliments than I ever have on my feet! Not to mention, every time I look down at my feet I’m even more surprised at how bright it REALLY is. Flip flop season is here, time to embrace it and make those feet bright and fun to look at!

It’s ok to wear colors not found in your natural habitat, (maybe in the rainforest on some random tree frogs you might find neons.) It is OK to be a little shocking with your color choice, after all it is only your clothing and accessories. It makes a statement, which is kind of the main point of finding your own personal style. So get out there and find something that can only be described as shocking, electrifying or crazy.

Forget about the awesome accessories that come with the sun? Sunglasses are one of the most fun things to shop for (and own!) Whether its so bright you can’t see without them or you choose to use them to hold your bangs back when the sun threatens to shine, they are essential to everyones spring wardrobe. Personally, i think the larger than life sunglasses trend is really cute (but there are some exceptions of course.) So I’m really excited to splurge on a new pair of shades to go with the awesome bright colors I’ve been finding myself wearing, (some people might need a new pair of sunglasses to look at the bright shades of the spring fashions…) There are a lot of different styles, large frames being only one of the many examples. Oh yes, and it is most definitely OK to own different pairs for different occasions…just wanted to clear that myth up.

I figured we would start with you classic black frames and lenses. Black matches just about everything, so when you’re shopping for a pair of spendy glasses, black is definitely the most practical. The great thing about both of these pairs is that they are not oddly shaped, they are your basic oval, which compliments most face shapes. On the left is a pair from Michael Kors, they are a really good size; not so huge that they take up your entire face, but not too small so they barely cover anything. On the right is Dolce and Gabbana’s classic black shades. I like that both of these pairs have a simple signature plate, just silver with simple font, I think it really enhances the simplicity of the glasses themselves so that they are fun, but not too flashy.

Looking to take the next step into something a little more colorful? Adding color is not a bad thing, especially is you vary your clothing and own lots of color choices. Personally, I like to stick to neutral shades when I’m shopping for accessories so that they match with everything, but I’m starting to think I need to take a walk on the wild side…especially with these colors. On the left is Pucci and I love the bright red on the sides. Red is a good solid color that can be paired with lots of compliments so it’s a safe buy. The Fendi glasses on the right are my favorite. I love the fun way the nameplate is made and I adore the color choices. They are subtly bright and fun, they add a little flair to your day.

Alright, time for something for all you people out there who are brave and daring when it comes to accessorizing. Sometimes playing it safe just doesn’t give you that much satisfaction, it’s awesome to get out there and do something crazy. If this is your life, or something you’ve been dying to do, these are the glasses for you. On the left is MJ by Marc Jacobs’ Aviator glasses. I’ve always liked aviators and these particular ones are stylin’. I also like that they are different from your usual mirrored aviators and are a little more fashionable and chic with their gold frames and navy blue lenses. On the right are the ever-popular Ray-Bans. Since their initial creation in 1937, Ray-Bans have been seen a ton across the decades. From Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, to Tom Cruise in Risky Business their popularity has never flagged. They are kind of fun, you can get them in a variety of colors and we can thank to company for creating the first pair of sunglasses that not only offered superb eye protection, but an elegant style as well. Their unique shape and style is one that has lasted practically forever, maybe we need to pick up on the staying power they have!

Maybe you’re looking for a little classic and a little wild. Not ready for the Ray-Bans, but tired of your plain, typical shades. It’s time for an update! The thing I love about both of these next styles is that they are kind of classic, kind of updated. On the left is Betsey Johnson, although she sticks to the classic “big glasses” idea, the colors are awesome and different and the style is a bit tweaked too. In the same way, the Coach glasses on the right have skinner sides and frames as opposed to the more traditional chunkier style. I love the signature c’s on the inside of the frames as well (even though people don’t see them.) Either way, these glasses are fun, sophisticated and a little bit different than usual.

Sunglasses are one of my favorite accessories, probably because you can wear them year round. But I seem to use them more prevalently in the springtime because the sun inspires more (or the fact that I’m WISHING the sun would show up.) Whether you stick to the more traditional or be daring and get something on the other side of the spectrum, or even just find your happy medium in between, have fun with it. That’s what accessories are for; having fun, adding flair and expressing yourself. The last one is definitely the most important

So lets imagine you’re getting dressed in the morning. You have this KILLER outfit planned in your mind, yet when you put it on it just doesn’t do it for you. You try a few other options but find yourself hung up because you REALLY wanted to wear those specific pieces and they mesh fine together it just seems like you’re missing something! Well…consider your questions answered, your inhibitions thrown to the wind and your outfit complete. Just add a super chic colorful linen or silk scarf! It’s lightweight enough to not be hot, but since we do live in Seattle this is not usually a problem, AND it looks fabulous with almost any outfit! These not-so-new accessories have been popping up everywhere on the “in” list so it’s about time you get yourself one.

Stripes: To Be Safe and Sophisticated

First of all I’d just like to say that these scarves can be found in just about any store and second of all, stripes are my all time favorite pattern for accessories. They are simple but sophisticated, bold but match with most things and are great for spring. Accessories are the area which you can express yourself the most! Wearing sold clothing and accenting it with bright jewelry, scarves or bags is a totally great look. Speak out with your accessories with these two options for striped scarves. Fortunately for us, both of these adorable scarves are fairly inexpensive. The blue one on the left is from Hollister and I love the contrast between the aqua and white as well as how wide the stripes are, I think this one is my favorite out of all of them. The scarf on the left is bright and bold, something else I like, and it can be purchased at Urban Outfitters. When in doubt about accessories make sure to hit Urban, they always have great sales on shoes, jewelry, hats, scarves and any other kind of accessory you could think of! Stripes, as I said before, go with just about any outfit and are a great way of playing it safe and looking great.

Solids: To Be Bold and Beautiful

You can never go wrong with solid color. If your outfit is patterned, don’t be deterred! Grab a girly pastel scarf in a complimentary or contrasting color! Springtime is might as well be called pastel season, so take advantage of the time to wear all of these girly, flattering colors! The scarves on the left are featured at Martin and Osa, a new company in the same family as American Eagle. I love the colors they’ve chosen, all of them are very subtle and match well with lots of other color options. This gives you some room to breathe when choosing your outfit. The scarf on the right is just as cute, and down a few price points. Old Navy is another store great for grab and go accessories, I love the peachy color of the scarf, it is a little brighter than your normal pastel which adds more flair to your overall look. Peach is also a color that is flattering on most peoples skin tones, brightening their skin up and giving it a healthy glow. There’s nothing better than having a great outfit that makes you look healthy!

Brights: To Be Daring AND Dressy

Who ever thought you’d hear those two words in the same sentence!? Brights are usually considered more casual but lately I’ve been seeing them in more and more professional settings as well. You don’t have to wear all grey and black to be taken seriously, you just have to be confident and bold. Brights can definitely do the trick. Another great thing about scarves is their versatility, you can wear them to the beach, out during the day, to work or even at night. I’m not saying to outlaw black and grey, I’m just saying add a little spice to those neutrals! Dare to wear a little color with you cute dress shorts and heels. This will also open up more opportunities for brightly colored jewelry (not gaudy though..) and fun colored heels. It gives you chance to turn heads without showing any skin. I love the color of the Banana Republic scarf on the left, it’s hard NOT to notice and it really makes a statement. If you’re looking for something a little less bold, but still bright check out the scarf on the right from Gap. It is a bright shade of aqua and not light enough to be a pastel, so it falls somewhere in the middle.

These lightweight accessories are PERFECT for spring and might just add that spice you’ve been looking for to ANY outfit. For your information; in my opinion you can never have too many accessories, there is no such thing as having too many options to look awesome. As I said before, you can find these at any price range, so there is no excuse for you NOT to own one. Get out there and enjoy the sunshine (but stay warm at the same time Seattle…)