Thursday, January 19, 2012
Thursday, January 5, 2012
For some, fashion and style are an innate ability. The ability to seamlessly pair items that not only define strong personal style, they exude confidence. But what about those who are not naturally inclined down this path? Entering into the world of fashion and all that it entails can leave a beginner feeling discouraged, overwhelmed and unsure. However, take solace in the fact that this is a skill that anyone can discover. They key is understanding that strong personal style and self awareness go hand in hand. By discovering who you are and what you are truly made of on this journey will not only affect your personal style, it will challenge you. Challenge you to be comfortable in your own skin and and find your very own "style voice". There are some simple steps to start this process:
- Collect images of people whose personal style you admire and want to emulate. Think about what specific looks you admire. Focus on the message their style choices send and how you would to translate that to your very own wardrobe. Step outside your comfort zone and really experiment.
- Ask friends, family, co workers and people you encounter where they like to shop. This will help you gauge what places are available in your area at different price points. This is especially affective if you relate to their personal style. The point is, start talking to people. When it comes to fashion, people tend not to be shy when it comes to sharing.
-After finding some style icons, think about what pieces you would like to build your new wardrobe. Do you want build around new basics or special pieces? Remember your new wardrobe will take time to build. Rome wasn't built in a day and neither can your wardrobe be.
-Keep an open mind. Don't automatically assume a particular style or piece won't look good on you...or that it will look good. Try pieces on, experiment with colors and see what shapes and lines work best on your body.
These are some simple steps to ease you into the process. Of course, there are some who may still need additional help. Sometimes we just need an extra push and a little support to get you through. This may be the time to seek a professional. AICI has a list of accredited Image Consultants in multiple areas that are always ready to help another person on that fashion journey. If you are in the San Jose area and need of assistance....you got a friend in me.
- Collect images of people whose personal style you admire and want to emulate. Think about what specific looks you admire. Focus on the message their style choices send and how you would to translate that to your very own wardrobe. Step outside your comfort zone and really experiment.
- Ask friends, family, co workers and people you encounter where they like to shop. This will help you gauge what places are available in your area at different price points. This is especially affective if you relate to their personal style. The point is, start talking to people. When it comes to fashion, people tend not to be shy when it comes to sharing.
-After finding some style icons, think about what pieces you would like to build your new wardrobe. Do you want build around new basics or special pieces? Remember your new wardrobe will take time to build. Rome wasn't built in a day and neither can your wardrobe be.
-Keep an open mind. Don't automatically assume a particular style or piece won't look good on you...or that it will look good. Try pieces on, experiment with colors and see what shapes and lines work best on your body.
These are some simple steps to ease you into the process. Of course, there are some who may still need additional help. Sometimes we just need an extra push and a little support to get you through. This may be the time to seek a professional. AICI has a list of accredited Image Consultants in multiple areas that are always ready to help another person on that fashion journey. If you are in the San Jose area and need of assistance....you got a friend in me.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Skirting the Issue
The set below was another example of affordable streetwear. Each individual piece in the affordable set cost no more than $50. If you are tight on funds like the most of us.....this will fill your heart with joy!
Sometimes when you least expect it, you stumble upon a jewel. This jewel is in the eye of the beholder. For some, finding that one special person to love is like coming up on a rare and priceless gem that far exceeds any and all expectations. For me, it's finding a Sanctuary that houses inexpensive fashion finds. Today, I came face to face with a very affordable gem. When braving the crowds during this season's madness, I took the actual time to seek out the Foreign Exchange in the Great Mall in Milpitas (www.feclothing.com) after months of stalking, ignoring and flirting with the idea of entering this haven, I took the plunge. I was not only pleasantly surprised by the affordable price tags, I was floored. Not only were the fashions inside sleek and sophisticated, they were having an insane deal. Foreign Exchange features more of muted color pallet with a focus on black, white, tan and navy. The designs aren't overly designed but are made up of interesting and simple lines. Not too many pieces with actual print they do however have a table that carries all their graphic T-shirts that range about $15.99. Tops and bottoms range between $20-30 and dresses fall between $30-40. In addition to affordable apparel this store also carries a small albeit trendy selection of shoes and purses. I get excited about the thought of saving money and discovering something new....so Ice Cube says, " Today was a good day."
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Affordable Fashions....not an oxymoron
We all have our interests. My main interest and goal in the fashion realm is to make fashion obtainable. Too many times I have seen supposed "affordable fashion" spreads in glossy fashion magazines. I look upon the pages excited and enthused, only to find my heart crash when I see affordable to some may mean each piece is under $100. If you are like me, you want your entire outfit to cost $100. We don't all chase and worship at label houses, so why do I need to spend so much money to be fashionable? I'll pass. That is not to say I don't value quality. I very much appreciate a special piece that may break the bank, but for my everyday life? Sometimes I just want to go shopping and feel like my journey leaves me feeling full. My newest tool to accomplish this is www.polyvore.com. This site allows me to create a clothing set that matches up to my needs and wants, all at the click of a mouse. (Look below for an example of fashionable with a budget) Always keep in mind: Fashion is not for the wealthy, fashion is for the brave. Having the courage to seek out fashion at any cost and pay no mind or matter to those who wield their Black AM EX cards.....
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