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Posts Tagged ‘Trends’

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Their Mark on Fashion Lives Forever

In Fashion, Trends on August 30, 2017 at 4:43 pm

Most people want to make a difference in the world around them but very few can do it through fashion. Unless a remarkable statement is made, just defying societal norms is not going to cut it.

These individuals below not only caused chatter around the world, they changed the way we view society.

When Michelle Obama released her first photo as First Lady, her bare arms caused an uproar.

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Photo Cred: ABC news

Showing off her amazingly toned arms in a sleeveless, black dress, people criticized her for wearing what many deemed inappropriate for the wife of the president. Their criticisms stemmed from an unwritten, arbitrary rule that sleeveless dresses, tennis shoes and open-toes shoes are banned in the House of Representatives.

Nonetheless, it didn’t stop Mrs. Obama from donning many sleeveless numbers during her husband’s tenure as President and many have spoken out about the unwritten (and possibly outdated) dress code as it pertains to women, asking for change.

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The late, great Kurt Cobain is the poster boy for grunge fashion.

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Photo Cred: Jesse Frohman 

A strong advocate for LGBTQ rights and racial equality, his anti-establishment standpoint was as present in the clothes he wore, as it was in his music. Cobain layered oversized tees, ripped clothing and flannels in an effort to be unlike greater society as much as possible. He ended up being one of the greatest influencers of street fashion today.

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Androgyny has always been prevalent in fashion. As society explores gender norms and fluidity, the characteristic line that differentiates men and women become blurred. However, as evidenced by the late David Bowie, pushing those boundaries allows us to explore who we are.

Through his characters Ziggy Stardust and Alladin Sane, Bowie donned colorful, stylistic makeup, tight leotards and exuded sexuality. When he wasn’t wearing stylistic makeup and tight leotards, Bowie wore pastel suits with flared legs. Knowing how seductive Bowie’s style was to both men and women, it’s no wonder Romphims (male rompers), dresses and other traditional women’s clothing are entering men’s wardrobes.

Lastly we have the iconic Kennedys. A vision of New England elegance, the confident and cool couple’s fashion sense has withstood the test of time.

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Jackie Kennedy is in the yellow skirt with Jack Kennedy to her left. Photo Cred: Getty

Ms. Jackie O. transformed stuffy, conservative garbs into soft, feminine ensembles. Her oversized sunglasses, long pea coats and scarves are highly prized staple pieces in our closets. Mr. Kennedy’s bomber jackets, fitted suits and casual style is emulated in men’s fashion all over the world. Thanks to them, it’s safe to say New England wear will live on forever as a part of American fashion.

We couldn’t mention everyone who has changed the world (while in fashion) so we want to know from you, who else is deserving to be on this list?

 

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Designers Announced for Tampa Bay Fashion Week 2017

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Updates on August 17, 2017 at 2:04 pm

Ahem! We have a little somethin’ to share…the 2017 Tampa Bay Fashion Week 2017 designers and brands!

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Elizabeth Carson Racker is returning to Tampa Bay Fashion Week for her fourth year. Constantly creating fresh and new silhouettes, this Tampa Bay-based designer knows what the modern day woman wants and always delivers.

The Dolce Couture Collection by Melissa Dolce will be making its debut at Tampa Bay Fashion Week 2017. In a class all by itself, Dolce pairs baseball tees with grass mini skirts and water pail hats with flowers sprouting out of it. Theatrical, bold and awe-inspiring, Dolce will put on a show we are sure to never forget.

Sopho by Alexandra Bougadis will be showing the Christi Collection, which combines leather craftsmanship with island flare. The line is inspired by the Mediterranean lifestyle and culture. Already an international hotspot, Tampa Bay is ready for everything Sopho is going to bring.

After making its mark in the Pacific Northwest, Ohlendorf, atelier by Wendy Ohlendorf has returned to Tampa Bay and we’re thrilled! Drawing on her educational background in fine art and design, Ohlendorf’s tangible pieces express her ideas, romanticism and love for life.

 

Banana Republic is for men and women who make the most of every moment and opportunity. Their ability to make the simplest items seem so elegant is almost magical. Their contemporary classics and thoughtful design is iconic and we are glad they are returning to our runway.

 

 

Known for their on-trend designs, Fabletics inspires people to stay active in a variety of ways for all kinds of occasions. We’re excited to see their passion and energy on the runway!

Free People is for the eclectic, worldly woman with a restless soul. Rooted in femininity, courage and spirit, Free People expresses an important message through their clothing and Tampa Bay Fashion Week can’t wait to hear it!

Lily Pulitzer’s bright, colorful pieces are easily recognized in today’s sea of neutrals and nudes. No matter the weather, using bright prints and pinks they always bring the sun and fun on the runway.

Pandora’s jewelry always draws a breath of awe from us. Their handcrafted pieces serve as timeless love links to family and friends. Made with genuine materials and stones, Pandora is sure to put a twinkle in your eye.

We are counting down the days until we see this fantastic designers and brands on the runway! Learn more about the designers and brands here: http://www.fashionweektampabay.com/designers2017

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Why Should I Attend Tampa Bay Fashion Week?

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends, Updates on September 1, 2016 at 2:38 am

FWTBTampa Bay Fashion Week (which we also refer to as: Fashion Week Tampa Bay, cause we like to switch it up sometimes!) is a week-long event where people from all over the Southeast region come to Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater,  to be submerged in style, beauty, aesthetic, and art via fashion. (Some years our event has attracted people from all over the country like Miami and Portland, OR; or the world – last year we had a designer from Cuba!)

The team behind Tampa Bay Fashion Week, including designers, brands, sponsors, models, volunteers, and more, all work with one another to put together a great show and week of events, and positively impact both the fashion and Tampa Bay communities.

It’s important for those who are interested in the industry to learn how to operate in the fashion space and take advantage of opportunities like Fashion Week. Patrons can network with designers and purchase one-of-a-kind creations; and aspiring fashion designers, buyers, stylists and business professionals, as well as students, can connect with Tampa Bay’s movers and shakers. Those already active in the industry can exchange tips with one another and collaborate.

And let’s face, we all we want to be inspired! No, we are not all going to run to the sewing machine after attending Tampa Bay Fashion Week (due to lack of a sewing machine and those necessary sewing skills), but we will be able to take and combine ideas on the runway with what’s in our closets to create high fashion attire out of our own wardrobes. We may also purchase pieces from the runway to add to our wardrobe. Plus, we’ll see attendees in their best gear, too! Basically street style x1000 because there are so many different looks contained in one space, purely for our enjoyment and shopping pleasure!

Many of our designers have e-stores, which make it convenient to (literally) buy an outfit off the runway. Or, if you aren’t able to catch the name of the designer that caught your eye, take a quick pic. With the use of fashion app, MeSpoke, attendees can use that picture to ID clothing they like and find out where they can purchase the item.

One of the best benefits of all in attending is the community impact. Each year we select non-profit organizations as beneficiaries and this year we’ve partnered with PACE Pinellas for a supplies/toiletries drive on Friday, Sept. 23, 2016 and Dress for Success Tampa Bay, where we’ll host a Purse Drive, on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2016.

And none of this would be possible without our fantastic sponsors! International Plaza and Bay Street is our 2016 Trendsetter Sponsor and also host to our main runway shows on Friday, Sept. 23 and Saturday, Sept. 24. Additional sponsors this year include: J Thor Productions, Sanford Brown IADT School of Design, New Identities, White Book Agency, tbt*, Sprinkles, 83 Degrees, Tampa Downtown Partnership, The Hideaway, Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine, Elli Quark, Florida Museum of Photographic Arts, Fashion United, Glazer Children’s Museum, Fashion Week Web, Working Women of Tampa Bay, and Vertical Tampa Bay.

Peep our schedule of events here and we look forward to seeing you at Tampa Bay Fashion Week!

~Jessica

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Can We Get A Drumroll, Please?

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends, Updates on August 25, 2016 at 4:48 am

And a couple of French horns!

Allow us to introduce you to the designers who will be claiming the runway and spotlight at Tampa Bay Fashion Week 2016!

ECR designs

Elizabeth Carson Racker Designs

Elizabeth Carson Racker, Tampa Bay Fashion Week alum, designs for the modern everyday woman. Her colorful, patterned designs reflect the multitude of influences that color her life everyday. Recognized by tastemakers such as Andre Leon Talley and David Rodriguez, we’re looking forward to seeing her at this year’s show.

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Floridita by Charlotte Marin

Floridita by Charlotte Marin, a Latin American swimwear, resort wear and accessory line was made to bring out your inner mermaid. Designs consist of bright patterns, custom embellishments and intricate embroidery to make wearers of Floridita feel unique. Each piece helps support and empowers single, working mothers who have been victims of violence and war. We’re excited to have this brand, that is making a difference, in the fashion week spotlight.

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Madame Adassa by Marsha Vacirca

Marsha Vacirca’s Madame Adassa line was created to evoke the natural sensuality and confidence every woman possesses. Her pieces are deeply connected to her culture and her country of origin. It will be awesome to see what passionate expression of creativity, Madame Adassa brings to the stage at this year’s show.

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Allison Bailey

Ally B. Swim by Allison Bailey, is a swimwear line that individually constructs and hand makes every suit for order. They combine elements of upscale lingerie with vintage inspiration. Able to withstand any watersport any fashion-forward woman enjoys, we are ready for what Ally B. Swim has to offer for every shape and size.

 

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Tracy Negoshian

Tracy Negoshian is a trendy multi-line, multi-season clothing label. During her time as a luxury sales and wardrobe consultant, Tracy realized you didn’t have to break the bank to look and feel good.  Geared towards the fashion-conscious, budget-friendly woman, we can’t wait to see her philosophy in action on the runway.

 

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A select few students will be showcasing their skills on the runway again this year in  Sanford Brown-IADT School of Design’s Student Showcase. This is definitely a must-see as we’ve been impressed by the design talent we’ve seen over the years, and this year won’t be any different! This year we’ll see designs from: Smyrne Charles, Joshua Duck, Lakesha Johnson, and Rachel Ternival who will combine classroom instruction with creativity for the runway.

Elizabeth Carson Racker, Floridita by Charlotte Marin and Sanford Brown-IADT School of Design will be showing Friday, Sept. 23, 2016.

Ally B. Swim and Madame Adassa by Marsha Vacirca will be showing Saturday, Sept. 24, 2016.

You won’t want to miss it! Grab your tickets or RSVP for standing room here.

Until next time!

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Let’s Talk International, Baby!

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Updates on August 18, 2016 at 10:03 am

logo-shareInternational Plaza and Bay Street is a staple in the Tampa Bay community. Conveniently located near Tampa International Airport, International Plaza and Bay Street in the go-to destination for specialty shopping, fantastic fashion, accessories, and more, and we’re thrilled to have them as our Trendsetter Sponsor again this year!

International Plaza and Bay Street knows the importance of keeping up-to-date on the latest trends and introducing new designers and brands to customers and the community. They were home to our trunk show/fashion presentations last year in Tampa Bay Fashion Week‘s pop-up shop, PURE Haus (pop-up retail experience),  which allowed local designers to sell and showcase their clothing while interacting with customers.

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It was an invaluable and unique experience for participating designers and everyone involved. (Thanks to all of you who came out!)

This year, International Plaza and Bay Street is our host venue again, but this time for two days of runway shows! Local designers will be on the runway showing their spring/summer 2017 collections, as well as some of International Plaza’s retailers. Select retailers will also debut their spring 2017 collections!

Along with all of the fashion everywhere at International Plaza, there are also many businesses in the surrounding area, and its restaurants cater to everyone from the working professional to professional socialite. It isn’t uncommon to catch the stylistically-inclined dining and catching up on the latest.

Going to International Plaza and Bay Street is always a fun experience! Grab a cone at Häagen-Daazs while you stroll around. Take your kids (or nieces, nephews, little brothers/sisters, etc.) to the play area for children. Eat at the food court or one of their dine-in restaurants. International Plaza has partnered with Tampa Bay Times so you can read the newspaper while you’re on the go. And last but not least…shop!

Whatever you do, just make sure to have fun! We can’t wait to see you there in September!

~Jessica

 

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Street Style in Tampa Bay

In Events, Fashion, Trends on July 15, 2016 at 2:51 am

In this week’s blog post we are taking it back to the streets! We saw and met some beautiful women this week effortlessly slaying in this Florida heat and we have just got to introduce them to you!

Jessica, a member of University of South Florida faculty, caught up with Fashion Week Tampa Bay just outside of the USF libraryJessica 1

Her skirt came courtesy of, online retailer, Venus.com and her lovely nude colored flats are from DSW. She was are unsure where her top came from due to how long she has had it, but she thinks it may be courtesy of Kohl’s.

 

Looking lovely and regal in what she described as an “old outfit”, she proves those ‘old’ pieces of clothing in your closet can become your classic, go-to pieces.

Next meet USF student Liza. When we saw her camouflage jacket and gladiator sandals, we had to stop and chat it up! There is something so alluring when a look is so complete… so we asked her where she got it.

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The shorts were a random buy but if anyone wants to buy a pair like them, there are tons of summer sales going on online, it just takes some searching. Liza’s shirt is from Forever 21 and the jacket was thrifted from the Anarchist Closet. Her sandals are from TJ Maxx and so is her adorable floral backpack.

It is always so much fun going out and interacting with the ladies of Tampa Bay. Be on the lookout because the next person who may end up on here may be you! 🙂

Much love and kisses from the Tampa Bay Fashion Week team, ciao!

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How To Keep (And Look) Cool In The Sun

In Fashion, Trends, Updates on June 20, 2016 at 8:02 am

If you’re in Florida right now, we’re going to guess that the sun has been beating you into a hot, sweaty pulp! And you probably find yourself searching aimlessly for that breeze when you step outside of your home!

Well, look no further. We can’t create wind, but Fashion Week Tampa Bay can help you stay breezy, work that frizz, and look as relaxed as the Florida palm trees.

First things first, remove all tight articles of clothing from your closet, drawers and mind for the foreseeable hot future.

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Image by PDPics

Tank tops and shorts included! Though they seem like go-to articles of clothing, they will only make you hotter and sweat like a gruesome day in the gym.

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Image by Janul, Creative Common License

Wear LOOSE clothing. The less fabric touching your skin, the cooler you will feel. If you can help it, wear cotton.

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Image by Unsplash

Take full advantage of crop tops, bralettes and sport bras. If showing skin is not your thing, wear high waist shorts or a loose skirt.

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Image by Lucy Burrows

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Image by bohemianbikini

Skirts and maxi dresses give your skin breathing room. Pairing crop tops or bralettes with skirts or donning a maxi dress can give you a simple, very modern look.

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Rompers or short overalls can also help keep you cool. The trick is making sure the fabrics are lightweight like cotton or linen. Denim can absorb heat but a nice pair of overalls paired with a bralette or crop top will have you looking chic and Tampa Bay Fashion Week approved.

All women know what the sun can do to our tresses but in the name of Beyonce, we are going to take lemons and make lemonade. Wear hats, scarves or bandanas and style that frizz! Everyday looks can be made with baseball caps, just throw it on.

Images by Urszulam25 (Scarf 2, Scarf 3)

Creatively use scarves or bandanas to hold your hair off your neck. Use them as elastics to put your hair in a ponytail. Put your hair in a bun and wrap a scarf or bandana around your head or the bun. The hair accessories will give your outfit a little flair and let you show off your personality.

These tips will help you stay airy, breezy and easy. Try them and let us know if they worked for you.

Ciao!

~FWTB Stylista Jessica

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Golden Globe Awards: Who Wore What?

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends on January 15, 2013 at 6:23 pm

Only a few short days after the People’s Choice Awards (see our review here), Hollywood was at it again as last night marked the 70th Annual Golden Globe Awards.” This year’s show was hosted by the hilarious estrogen duo of Tina Fey (30 Rock) and Amy Poehler (Parks & Recreation). The Golden Globes celebrates the accomplishments of both TV and movies as it takes place at the legendary Beverly Hilton Hotel. Everyone knows this is the “Miss Cleo” of award shows, as a lot of recipients from last night, have an even better chance to take home the coveted Oscar at this year’s Academy Awards (Feb. 24th). While some of you may be movie buffs and have your DVR full to the max of your favorite networks shows…my fellow fashionistas and I look forward to the incredible style, fashion, and abundance of sequins and faux fur that grace this iconic Hollywood evening. So c’mon stars and starlets…show us what ya got!

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Tina Fey is strutting a custom L’Wren Scott dress that is paying a tribute to the 50’s era due to its cut and length. She pulls it off well as it shows her glamorous side while still remaining quirky. Amy Poehler shocked the crowd as she sports a custom Stella McCartney tux, revealing a sexy deep V. Both of these comedic leading ladies couldn’t have looked better as for tonight, all eyes on Hollywood are on them. (Image: celebrity-gossip.net)

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Anne Hathaway looks absolutely radiant in this white beaded Chanel gown. The Les Miserables star looks flawless with her pixie hair cut, and this proves that simplicity can be all you need. (Image: Huffington Post)

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Adele made her Golden Globes debut this year, as her hit song Skyfall was nominated and won at this years show. She is wearing a Burberry gown that is pure Adele-style. It’s very modest and the detailing at the decolletage is a nice touch. The talented songstress is looking gorgeous as she recently gave birth to her first child. (Image: RedCarpetFashionAwards.com)

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Sofia Vergara glistened on the red carpet as she pulled off a Michael Cinco gown exceptionally well. Her hair is simple, her makeup is clean, and she has done the fashion gods justice once again. Bravo! (Image: FabSugar.com)

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Jennifer Lopez was the definition of sexy and classy as she wore a Zuhair Murad sheer gown, complete with lace. Notoriously known for making statements on the red carpet, Jennifer Lopez is a contender for this years “Best Dressed” at the Globes. (Image: RedCarpetFashionAwards.com)

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Kate Hudson rocks the red carpet with this amazing piece by Alexander McQueen. While it’s hard to not kill it when wearing McQueen, Hudson definitely turns up the volume and does the late designer justice in every way. Another contender for my “Best Dressed” list! (Image: RedCarpetFashionAwards.com)

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Michelle Dockery made heads turn as she showed up in an Alexandre Vauthier Fall 2012 Couture gown. Gorgeous lace with impeccable detail from the bust to the cap sleeve, and a seamless white crepe bottom made this star another possibility for this year’s “Best Dressed.” (Image: RedCarpetFashionAwards.com)

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Olivia Munn is seen here absolutely killing it in a Giorgio Armani Spring 2013 dress. The black and turquoise zig zag top is interesting and appealing to the eye, as the bottom black portion is sleek and sexy. Job well done, Olivia! (Image credit: RedCarpetFashionAwards.com)

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Nicole Kidman has done it! She wins this years “Best Dressed” …according to me, at this year’s Golden Globes. Alexander McQueen does it again as this dress is everything the Golden Globes truly stands for. It’s elegant, sexy and a little off the edge, and Kidman commands the red carpet like a true Hollywood icon should. Congrats Nicole! (Image credit: Glamour.com)

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Lucy Liu took an extremely bold chance as she chose this printed Caroline Herrera dress. It’s shocking at first, but I have to admit I find it to be absolutely BEAUTIFUL! One of the very few prints we have seen on the red carpet this season and only a star like Liu could pull it off! (Image: Glamour.com)

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Kerry Washington plays up the sex factor and succeeds tremondously with this Miu Miu jewel encrusted gown. While not floor length, her rocker chic hair and closed-toe shoes makes this look a must-see for this evening. (Image: Glamour.com)

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Katharine McPhee looks beyond amazing in this black Theyskens’ Theory gown. The Smash star is looking mature, sexy and confident as she is this year’s runner up for “Best Dressed.” (Image: Glamour.com)

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Nicole Richie screams old time Hollywood as the jewel encrusted, long sleeve Naeem Khan gown is definitely working in her favor. Everything from the loose curls in her hair to the House of Harlow clutch, Richie nailed it! (Image: Glamour.com)

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Zachary Levi looks beyond adorable and extremely handsome in this midnight blue tux. A man who has the confidence and the ability to pull off anything but a black tux gets major points from me 🙂 “Best Dressed” male for me this year by far. (Image: Fresherthanchris.com)

There you have it! Only a small look at what is known to be the biggest (and possibly sloppiest) party/award show of the year. The Academy Awards (Feb. 24) are sneaking up on us and I’ll be back to give all of you the latest scoop on the hottest looks.

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Sparkle Your Way Through Fall

In Designers, Fashion, Trends on November 6, 2012 at 6:26 pm

The time has come when the Tampa Bay area is blessed with cooler weather.  Cooler weather=Cooler fashion!  If you love the look of layers, glitz and mixed textures, winter in Florida is a very happy time for you.

Metallic denim is hotter than ever this season, from light champagne to brilliant gold.  Pair it with a cute sweater for the ultimate ensemble.

Faith Connexion metallic coated stretch-denim skinny jeans

Rag & Bone Metallic Legging

Silver Metallic Jeans with Chic Striped Sweater

Traditionally, Fall fashion can sometimes appear drab.  Don’t you dare pair a frumpy dark sweater with black pants!  Choose one brilliant sparkling piece to create magic within the rest of your ensemble.

Pink and Silver Sequined Tuxedo Jacket

Copper Sequined Skirt with Silk Blouse in Winter White

Cozy Gray Sweater with Gold Sparkle Mini

Street Sparkle

On your search for Fall fashion, have fun!  Remember:

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Cultural Inspiration

In Fashion, Trends on August 22, 2012 at 1:00 pm

In the same way that a great musician should study many different cultures of music, such is the case for anyone interested or working in fashion.  This beautiful world we live in is full of amazing inspiration.  Imagine if designers could draw only from their own back yards?  I dare say we would all be facing an epic lack of options.

I recently returned from vacationing in the Smoky Mountains.  In the town of Cherokee, North Carolina I found a wide array of stunning tribal prints.  Featuring bold color and intricate detail, vivacious prints such as these will spice up a wardrobe beyond your wildest dreams.

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How do you accessorize this look?  Gold, turquoise and coral pieces look absolutely fantastic with tribal prints.  Perhaps you would rather rock a solid color.  In this case, let your hands be creative with an exciting nail design.  There are endless ways to experiment with this cultural trend.

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Now that I have showered you with delightful examples, dare to find your own inspiration from a culture that fascinates you.  Fashion is in the trees, the sea, and ancient architecture of centuries past.  You just have to look!