Begin 2012 In Style!

Let’s start the New Year off right when it comes to preparing you to be “on trend” with your style. Color is always important but it is even more important to wear what looks best on you (always trumps a trend – always!) but it is also good to know what is going on around you when it comes to trends and how to adapt them to fit you and your own personal style.

PANTONE (here comes the legal jargon directly quoted from their web site) is the world-renowned authority on color and provider of color systems and leading technology for the selection and accurate communication of color across a variety of industries. The PANTONE® name is known worldwide as the standard language for color communication from designer to manufacturer to retailer to customer. They have chosen “the it” color of 2012 – drum roll please . . . 17-1463 Tangerine Tango!!! For most, this means a subsidiary of orange. For the fashion community we wait with baited breath like we are waiting to hear the award for best picture at the Oscars each and every year – then cheer with glee when it is finally revealed. After that the race is on to find things in our own closets (and those close to us) that are in this hot new shade. If none prevail then it’s a shopping we must go.

I know you are thinking “oh goodness I don’t look good in anything orange”. I did too! What I did cheerfully find was that I did like this Tangerine Tango color and that I didn’t look half bad in it either. There are so many ways to incorporate this latest “it” color into your wardrobe without having to wear it from head to toe. Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize!

1.   Skinny belt – the perfect way to add a splash of color to the LBD (Little Black Dress) or to any neutral without going overboard. Plus a skinny belt is “in” right now in itself.

2.   Statement Jewelry.  Adding statement jewelry in the latest color to spruce up any outfit and, again, look like you have known for days what the hottest color of the year is.

3.   Scarves.  There are endless ways to wear scarves – which leads me to my next point. Find a scarf with the color incorporated in it and pair it (in your hair, around your waist, in a feminine bow around your neck) with a white T, jeans, and a hot hot shoe. Or find a scarf that is entirely one color and add it around the strap of your handbag for a “pop” of color with any ensemble.

4.   Shoes.  My very favorite piece of fashion fame is the shoe. Oh how I adore shoes —but I must digress. Grab a shoe with the “it” color in it or go bold and get a shoe that IS the “it” color and use it to jazz up a monochromatic look – all black, all white, all grey, all beige, – you get the point. My preference is a 6” platform but flats are a great way to stay comfy and in style at the same time.

5.   Handbags.  Don’t forget the clutch! Pick up an adorable clutch handbag and you will find out fast that not only are you so chic but you don’t need as much in your purse as you thought – new year new outlook.

6.   Cosmetics.  Go crazy and try this shade in a new lip gloss or lip stick. Make-Up is one of the greatest accessories and it comes off if you don’t like it – no harm no foul right?

Fashion and personal style is all about having fun above all. Remember to go with what feels right and what makes you happy. You are the one who has to wear it and you want items that make you feel amazing every time you put them on.

Julia Rutland
Aesthetic Design Style House

Julia Rutland is the Founder and Owner of Aesthetic Design Style House located in Indianapolis, Indiana.  For more information about Julia, her company and the services she has to offer, please visit her website at: www.aestheticdesignstyle.com.

Something for Everyone – Spring 2010 Fashion Trends

By Guest Blogger: Karen Boggs

Something for everyone! is not just a cliché’ in describing fashion trends for Spring 2010.  Styles will be based on romantic, nautical, tribal and military themes.  A variety of colors will enhance these themes – subdued pastels in the romantic pieces will provide the essence of elegance and femininity, whereas, bright yellows with green undertones will be popular with the military and tribal offerings.

Turquoise, a favorite of many women, will make a come back this summer. Shade of pinks, from cotton candy to hot pink will be popular in clothes as well as jewelry and purses. The combination of white and black always provides a classic, timeless look that works for everyone.

Soft ruffles, lace, and draping fabric will be seen in the romantic pieces. Strategically placed see through material will add hints of sexiness to dresses and tops.  Prints, including patterned, floral and stripes will be prevalent in skirts and pants this spring.

“Boyfriend” blazers will continue to be popular through the warmer months. These are slightly oversized jackets with rolled up sleeves. Bright blazers, in colors such as turquoise and tangerine, can add punch to an existing outfit.  One-piece jumpsuits will provide a fun, playful alternative to a traditional pant/top outfit.  Pants, shorts, skirts and jeans will be offered with higher waists this season. Ripped, shredded and patched jeans will be making a comeback, whether a welcomed one, remains to be seen.

If you want to add several pieces of jewelry to update your look, think in terms of chunky chains, bangles and long, layered necklaces.  Metallics continue to play a big part in accessories this year. Brightly colored, bold bags will be major components in completing an outfit this spring. Quilted classics and tailored clutches will remain favorite styles for many.

Light and neutral colored shoes in tans and beiges will abound this season. If you prefer color, greens and blues will be good alternatives for you. Cork and rope covered heels will provide interesting accents to the popular wedge shoes. Heavier sandals, often including a thick ankle strap collar, will be the rage. However, keep in mind, these styles do not elongate the leg line and can make calves and ankles appear heavier. As you know, all trends are not for everyone. Real style is about finding clothes that fit and flatter your shape-stamping them with your individual flair and wearing them with confidence.

Happy Spring!

About Karen Boggs

Helping women determine the best styles for their shape and size is the goal of style consultant, Karen Boggs.  Founder of Renew You, LLC, Boggs works with clients through one-on-one shopping sessions and closet consultations. Along with corporate training on professional dress in  the workplace, she enjoys speaking to various women’s groups. Boggs has contributed to a variety of publications including Indianapolis Woman and Enjoy! For more information please visit www.renewyoustyle.com.