Month: February 2014

Outfit of the Day?

Published on by StefanieLeave a comment

I’ve been asked quite a few times as to why I don’t routinely post any OOTD’s (Outfit of the day).  The main reason is, it’s unnecessary.  I want to avoid alienating any woman or make someone feel like they aren’t en vogue because they chose to go in a different direction than I did on that particular day.   Fashion is art and incredibly subjective.  It changes constantly and colors flatter some and wash out others.  Fashion should empower you no matter  what.  If you put on that dress and can walk into a room full of strangers and feel like a Goddess, work the shit out of it!  Own it.  Make it yours, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

My only suggestion is there is a time and place for everything.  The good Lord doesn’t need to see your best club wear, and neither does your employer or Gram-Gram.  Have some fun, take a few chances and remember to be yourself.  That’s the best fashion advice anyone can give you.

 

Be a Mentor?

Published on by StefanieLeave a comment

When we hear this word, it usually sparks the idea of volunteering to help young kids who need it.  Whether it is emotional, spiritual, physical, or torturing, there are a lot of kids and adults out there who are struggling.  They find it hard to stop the feeling of  drowning in life’s issues.  Being a mentor can be a great benefit to just about anyone – age is not a determining factor.  I know a lot of adults who could benefit from having a mentor in their life.  Sometimes you lean on a parent or other family member,  but sometimes it is good to have a more objective person who will tell you the things you need to hear that you may not be ready to face.

There are a number of great organizations that are already in place such as the Boys and Girls Club of America   and Big Brothers Big Sisters – These are just two of many places that are a great starting point if you are interested in giving back to the community.  When you visit their sites you can explore the other connections they have.  Also, do not forget about your local seniors.  A lot of nursing homes welcome volunteers to read, spend time with them or initiate crafts.  There is a lot to learn from the elderly community, and a lot of them barely get visits from their own family.  You could be the reason they feel vibrant again.

What about those 20-somethings you know who are trying to start their adult life?  How about those 30-somethings who may have to start over?  The 40-somethings who have put off life and are rushing to begin again?  The 50-somethings who are finding love again in various new areas of their life?  The 60-somethings who are fighting the big R word (retirement)?  The 70-somethings who have finally found peace?  And the 80-somethings who have realized that living is the best part of life that gets lost over the years?  There are so many facets of life that we often struggle with and feel alone in even among the closest of friends.  It can be hard to ask for help but it can be the most rewarding, even life changing in some instances.

I invite you to consider something.  When we put our own swords down, it is then we realize the weight we were carrying.  When you are busy helping others through their struggles, you realize how to prioritize your own things.  This is not to say we should ignore ourselves,  but sometimes we often get too buried in our own crises that we don’t see how to crawl our way out.  It causes a shield of ignorance.  I feel that helping and inspiring others to make the most of what life has to offer gives me purpose.  I feel that the more we band together, the better we all will be in the long run.

If you know someone who need something, reach out to them.  It could be someone to vent to, someone in need of career advice or what kind of flowers are right for their wedding.  Don’t place limits on things that don’t require one.

Help others.  Encourage others.  Love others.

Winter Cute?

Published on by StefanieLeave a comment

The hardest part about winter is looking cute.  The only benefit is the low humidity and cold air, so your hair style will last longer.  After that?  It’s not so grand.  We are constantly wrapped up in layers, gross snow boots, and hats.  I have found that when it comes to sweaters, whether it is a turtleneck or other various sweater styles, the best way to dress up the outfit is big, bold statement jewelry – especially bold necklaces!

My favorite place to buy jewelry is Burlington Coat Factory.  They have a very wide selection and low prices so you won’t feel guilty splurging.  If something breaks, gets lost or stolen it’s no big deal.  I have found some cute stuff at other stores but it’s so hit or miss that they aren’t worth mentioning.  I usually try to avoid those house party companies.  You know exactly what I’m talking about.  The items that cost an arm and a leg when the quality is no where to be found.  If you are going to spend a lot of money for jewelry, be sure that the price is on par with the quality, clarity and design.  I see a lot of women who claim their stuff is top notch but I can tell it’s just expensive costume jewelry.

These are some of the items I own that I break out from time to time.  They are big, bold and always start a conversation.

IMG_4267

Great pearl necklace for all seasons.  Found at Burlington Coat Factory.

IMG_4268

Turquoise necklace that can either be casual or dressy.  I love wearing it more in the Spring and Summer than other times in the year.  Also found at Burlington Coat Factory.

IMG_4269

It’s not always you can find green jewelry.  It’s original and can work for a  dressy outfit or something more casual.   Another BCF find.

IMG_4270

I love the tiger faces! I found this at Ashley Stewart but I don’t recommend their jewelry at all.  It breaks easily and is incredibly cheap.  I only bought this because I used it in part of a Halloween costume I created.  I know if I wore it all the time it would have fallen apart by now.

IMG_4271IMG_4272

This necklace can be twisted and knotted in different ways to create something unique each time.  I got this from Torrid.  I don’t usually buy their stuff but this caught my eye.

  IMG_4273

I always suggest getting a long strand of pearls.  They can be worn a variety of ways, and it is such a classic piece. This was another BCF find.

How are you staying cute this winter?  What are you rocking this winter?