STYLE

Time to Suit Up; Summer 2013 Swimwear

One of my most feared and yet favorite times of year is Summer. From October to May I long for the heat and sunshine and beach days! I start purchasing my swimwear well before the Summer season begins and by the time Memorial Day hits my bathing suit drawer is over flowing! Growing up on Long Island, the beach is not just a place to soak up a tan and cool off in the Atlantic, it is an endless, sandy, runway where every girl wants to have the most eye catching bikini or one-piece. And, thanks to Facebook and Instagram, the pose off continues off the beach.

I have to say I am really excited to write about the swimwear trends for the 2013 Summer Season. They are fresh and bold. I will also give you some affordable options so you can rock these looks on any budget.

Retro is huge this year! Not only in clothing but in swimwear as well. If you read my last article you know all about my affinity for high waist! And thankfully this trend is showing up for beach wear too.

Floral High Waist Bikini — Mix and Match High Waist Bikini

high-waisted-bikini — Polka Dot High Waist Bikini

Retro Swimwear — Retro Inspired Swimwear

These Retro vintage-feel bathing suits are my favorite for this season. The high waist bottoms look great with a variety of tops; bandeau, halter, string… Mixing and matching only make this look feel more vintage and I especially love the idea of mixing prints.

Speaking of prints, bold pattern and prints are another trend this year. Aztec, houndstooth, floral, etc… Pretty much any pattern you can imagine is showing up on Runways for Summer. So feel free to stand out and make a statement. Mix and match patterns and colors! Also, a look resurfacing this year is graphic prints. The prints I have seen so far are animals, people, and landscapes. These prints work best on a one-piece otherwise the effect is lost.

Graphic Swimwear — Patterns and Graphics

Lion Graphic Bathing Suit — One Piece Lion Graphic

Now something for the sexy women out there. Boudoir bathing suits are another hot trend this year. The lingerie look is not something everyone would feel comfortable in but as long as you are confident you can pull this off. Black, chic, and sexy are just a few of the details in this look.

Lastly, I’d like to quickly mention some bold looks that are trending this Summer. The Rocker look is hard and accessorized and textures are also a fun look to try out this year.

Now obviously we can’t all afford Vivienne Westwood or Versaci bathing suits (myself included), luckily many affordable retail company’s offer a variety of these popular looks for reasonable prices. Take a look below and hopefully you’ll find something that suits you!

www.forver21.com has some cute options as well as www.target.com.

Another site I’d like to mention is something you’ve heard me talk about before www.wanelo.com. Just search your favorite look and browse from hundreds of retailers. Also, www.etsy.com is a great place to find vintage and handmade swimwear.

Also, for you bling lovers out there, a friend of mine, Danielle, has created a business where she customizes beautifully decorated bathing suits. Her one of a kind designs are stunning and the best part is you can request a look that is just for you.

Check out the Facebook page www.facebook.com/pages/Bikini-Crush-Swimwear

Summer Dreams: Summer 2013 Fashion Trends

by Ryan Shea

Despite the bitter cold weather we’ve been experiencing in New York, Summer is right around the corner! And with Summer weather comes a new Summer wardrobe. I have started stocking up since November… And I thought I’d share the trends I think will be big this season.

My favorite item for Summer 2013 is High Waisted Denim Shorts!

High waist torn shorts — Torn Light Wash High Waist Denim Shorts

I am seriously obsessed with this look. High waist jeans are flattering on almost every body type. Every retail store is stocking up on these must have shorts so, no matter your budget, there are a pair just for you. My most recent purchases have been from online sellers who customize the shorts the way you like; studs, lace, tears, etc… I love the vintage feel of this style.

You can rock these with a basic white tee or vintage band tee or with a sleek button up. Just about everything looks good with a pair of high waist shorts. Flip flops for the beach, a pair of high tops for a rocker feel, or a towering pair of platform wedges.

Speaking of floral…

Floral prints are a trend that never go out of style. And floral will be everywhere this year.

Personally, I like my florals mixed with something a little structured or hard looking. Think 90’s grunge but an updated version! Adding denim to any floral print basically gives you a vintage grunge look. A denim vest with a strapless floral summer dress or a denim shirt with floral shorts, maybe?

Floral Grunge — Floral blouse with Grunge feel

Pastel Florals — Pastel Floral Cut Out dress with Denim Shirt

Now for the my color choices for this Summer (drum roll!) …

Mint and Coral!

My sister Theresa is actually the person to bring these wonderful colors into my wardrobe decisions. I have always been someone who favored the furthest ends of the light spectrum (Black and White) … Summer was always a big white season for me. I love the contrast of my tan skin against a gleaming white piece of clothing, but I have severely underestimated the subtle glow of a mint green and coral item. Because of their neutral tones these colors can be part of almost any outfit or any article of clothing.

Mint Shorts with Taupe Top and Chic White Blazer

There are so many trends that are going to be popular this Summer and I wish I could list them all but instead I’ll just post some pics of some items I think should be in every girl’s wardrobe this Summer season!

Here are some idea’s I thought looked cute for this Summer;

American Flag Leggings and Cut off denim Shirt

Feel free to comment about anything you think I should have included and stay tuned for my Swim Wear article!

HonestFrugalChaos’ Six Frugal-Fashionista Fun Facts

by Ryan Shea

HonestFrugalChaos decided to have a little fun with how to be and signs you are a Frugal-Fashionista. Humor and no filter honesty is what HonestFrugalChaos is all about. If you can’t laugh at yourself and at life, well then, buckle-up babe because life is going to be a lot bumpier ride than need be for you. Hate to be the bearer of bad news, but it’s the truth.

Give The Gaudy Grandma A Whirl: A HonestFrugalChaos Style

by Ryan Shea

A ‘bit too much’ jewelry styled outfit is a love of HonestFrugalChaos… called the Gaudy Grandma style. If done right (by avoiding the ‘I’m wearing all the jewelry I own’ look) it can actually be a very fabulous look. Think of it as if your Grandma raided your closet but still piled on the clip-ons and pins for the early bird special! It flirts with ‘over the top’ which is why I love it!

Valentine, Hint-Of-Lime, and Office: Two Obsessions and A True Love Of HonestFrugalChaos Style

by Ryan Shea

HonestFrualChaos would first like to wish all my fashionistas of Manhattan a Happy Valentines Day! Let’s keep this love going with HFC’s two obsessions of the week and one true shoe love. When we’re talking about fashion there is always love! Enjoy my loves and flavors of the week!

Sweat Sweet: Soffe.com

by Ryan Shea

Since putting on some extra pounds I’ve found my home away from home, these days, is the gym. And as much as everyone likes to say “it’s a gym, not a fashion show,” us ladies know better. Throwing on oversized sweat pants and an extra large T-shirt seems like the logical idea, until you pass the mirror and realize what a bum you look like. Not to mention, it is extremely hard to feel good when the exterior looks lousy. I’ve tried throwing on a pair of leggings and a cute tank top and all that leads to is wedgies and sweat stains, eww! But today I came across an awesome site that sells cute work out gear, www.soffe.com! So, if you’ve read my previous articles, you know how much I LOVE to shop online, and when I saw the fabulous fitness wear on Soffe.com I knew I had to spread the word. They have everything from shorts, to straight leg pants, tee shirts, and tank tops. Everything is so stylish and comfy. Best part, awesome deals! Now don’t get me wrong, the clothes are affordable regardless, but who doesn’t love a sweet deal (pardon the V-day pun)? So for Valentine’s Day they have 25% off some really cute clothes. SOme of my faves are;

The Printed Authentic Soffe Shorts (the prints I’m showing are just 2 of my tops but they have 37 choices!!)

Soffe Shorts Reptile — Printed Authentic Soffe Shorts – Painted Reptile

I am obsessed with these funky shorts and am having ADD trying to pick my favorite one!

Ok, so in the past, I don’t know, 4 years I have completely given up any kind of bell bottom. I love that straight legs are in and I really like how they look on me. That being said, I can never find straight leg sweats, not leggings, but FINALLY I’ve found them !

Soffe Nu-Wave Skinny Sweats

So these bad boys come in Gun Metal (as shown) or black and only $26 bucks…Love it!

And if you are into the legging thing they have them too … Only these are made for movement and won’t ride up when you are on the elliptical or treadmill.

Soffe.com has so many awesome items and the 25% off Valentines Day bunch are gorg! There is so much if I kept writing you’d be here till tomorrow, so I will start to wrap it up.

This site has everything from yoga pants to pool shorts, tennis skirts to tiny shorts, and tank tops to tee shirts. And don’t fret boys there is just as much options for you, but I’m not really an expert on men’s wear. But I will tell you this, I’m not mad at the selection. I could only hope some of the boys that I see at the gym grunting and grinning will see this article and step their gym gear up!

This site is an exercise junkie’s dream, a cheerleader’s heaven, and for those of us who have a love hate relationship with physical activity, a way to look sweet while sweating! Check them out and let me know what you think!

25% Off Valentine's Day Sale — 25% Off Valentine’s Day Sale

Boobs or Snooze; The 2013 Grammy Awards

by Ryan Shea

This year’s Grammy awards brought out an array of fashion. Despite CBS’s comical dress code, the stars still looked hot this year. CBS sent a notice that the attendees of the Grammy awards should not wear anything revealing; no plunging necklines, side boobs, or butt views. Although CBS tried to control the fashion, many artists clearly disregarded the networks warnings. This is the 2013 Grammy Fashion review.

One artist who visibly paid no attention to the dress code was Katy Perry. Perry’s revealing mint green Gucci dress was skin tight and the peep hole at her chest was anything but censored. Her cleavage was fully exposed! The dress was unattractive and Katy Perry looked a little undone. Not her best.

Another artist who ignored the no “bare skin’ rule was Kelly Rowland in Georges Chakra. The fitted black gown was beautiful and had many, many revealing lines. If she moved the wrong way all of her naughty parts would have been on display. Thankfully there were no slips, but it was obvious Rowland was unfazed by the clothing regulations this year.

Kelly Rowland Grammys — Kelly Rowland at the 2013 Grammy’s

I have to admit I was slightly let down by the fashion at the Grammy’s this year. Nothing really astounded me. That being said, there were a few celebrities whose choice of dress was beautiful and warrants mentioning.

My best dressed this year goes to; Rihanna!

Rihanna Grammy's — Rihanna at the 2013 Grammy’s

I must admit I fully expected Rihanna to completely go against the dress code and shock us all, but she decided to keep it tasteful. The singer rocked a dazzling red Azzedine Alaia gown, sheer panels’ criss-crossed over the chest and haltered on the neck. The skirt was full and flowing chiffon. She looked elegant and still made a statement.

Carrie Underwood looked striking last night. She was put together from head to toe. The strapless Roberto Cavalli gown hugged her curves and accentuated her toned arms. The pattern on the dress was elegant and the beading on the skirt was breath taking.

Carrie Underwood Grammy's — Carrie Underwood at the 2013 Grammy awards

Faith Hill really surprised me this year. The knee length frock she wore fit her perfectly and the sheer, embroidered top was lovely. The lace jacquard on the skirt was so subtle you could barely see it. This J. Mendel dress looked stunning on Faith Hill.

And now for my favorite part of the Grammy’s… the WORST DRESSED. The Grammy’s always brings out some of the most outrageously heinous fashions. And, oh, they did not disappoint me this year! I’ll try and narrow it down to my top 5 this year.

#5 – Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez Grammy — Jennifer Lopez at the Grammy’s

J.Lo’s dress looked like a hefty bag. The cut out for her leg to stick through made no sense!

#4 – Nicole Kidman

Nicole Kidman Grammy's — Nicole Kidman at the 55th annual Grammy awards

Her dress aged her and the muted colors washed her out.

#3 – Adele

Adele Grammy's — Singer Adele at the 55th annual Grammy’s

I feel wretched naming Adele as one of my worst dressed, but the pregnant Grammy winner looked like she was wearing curtains!

#2 – Solange Knowles

Solange Knowles Grammy's — Beyonce’s little sister Solange

Beyonce’s younger sister looked like a cracked out Diana Ross. The sparkly green dress was cheap looking and the orange heels were horrible.

#1 – Ashanti

Ashanti Grammy — Ashanti at the 2013 Grammy Awards

Ashanti’s floral dress was too revealing and looked cheap.

Lastly, I want to shout out a few of the men who rocked it last night…

Country cutie Hunter Hayes looked handsome in his Hugo Boss black suit.

Justin Timberlake rocked his Tom Ford suit and had all of us ladies swooning.

The fashion at the Grammy’s this year was toned down compared to previous years. No one really amazed me. I remember tuning into the Grammy’s and being dazzled by the unique costumes the musicians would adorn. I look forward to the outrageous red carpet and can only hope that next year will be more eventful.

Janeration’s Fashion Show: Knits, Colors, and The Cashmere Touch Collection

by Ryan Shea

Bravo Jane and Anna. Bravo. Timeless, stunning touches of detail, and superb craftsmanship is what Janeration’s Ready-To-Wear hand knitted collection is bringing to the table for 2013. The Cashmere Touch collection is about color, embellishments, leather, textures, crocheting, and above all beautifully executed pieces. [Read more…] about Janeration’s Fashion Show: Knits, Colors, and The Cashmere Touch Collection

Queen Coco, One-Hit-Wonder, & Warped Tour ’04: Inspirations & Secrets of HFC Style for Repeat Outfit Annonymous

by Ryan Shea

Nothing is more unhealthy and so last season than being a Repeat Outfit Addict. HFC’s Repeat Outfit Addict is a babe who goes through the motions of wearing the same outfits with the only creativity of figuring out when she wore it last. FASHION TRAGEDY! [Read more…] about Queen Coco, One-Hit-Wonder, & Warped Tour ’04: Inspirations & Secrets of HFC Style for Repeat Outfit Annonymous

All that Glitters is gold, navy, floral : Fashion at the 2013 SAG Awards

by Ryan Shea

The SAG awards brought out some of the best actors in television and movies. And despite the gloomy weather, the fashion was glamorous. I noticed a few trends on the red carpet at the SAG awards this year.

Bridal wear was all over the red carpet. Stars like Kerry Washington, donning a Rodarte gown, and Sophia Vergara, in Donna Karan, looked chic in white. As did Naomi Watts in a stunning Marchesa beaded gown. Naomi Watts was one of the best dressed on the red carpet, in my opinion. Her gown was elegant and fit like a glove, the intricate beading was stunning, and her hair and make up were flawless.

Another look that flooded the red carpet last night was navy gowns. Les Mis actress Amanda Seyfried looked incredible in a navy Zac Posen gowen. The Strapless dress hugged all her curves and the exaggerated mermaid silhouette made heads turn. Another Hollywood starlet who rocked navy last night was Jennifer Lawrence. Jennifer Lawrence’s Christian Dior strapless gown was exquisite. The layered gown was a new take on a classic silhouette. Jennifer Lawrence brought home her first SAG award last night for her role in the Silver Lining’s Playbook and looked alluring and graceful doing it.

Florals were everywhere last night. Floral prints are definitely a trend to watch out for this Spring 2013 season, and the stars knew it. Nicole Kidman, Julianne Moore, and Ariel Winter all sported floral frocks. However, Julianne Moore’s Chanel Couture dress did not work on her. The white, low cut V-neck gown, with black contrasting floral appliques looked terrible on the actress. The top half did not fit and made her appear “saggy.” Also, the dress was too tight around her legs and she could barely walk up to the stage to accept her Actor. Overall, Julianne Moore was my pick for worst dressed of the night.

These were just a few of the trends that were headlining at the 2013 SAG awards. So many other amazing fashions were on display last night. Other trends I noticed were glittery dresses, contrasting black and whites, and thin waist belts. Before I finish this article I must point out one of my most favorite looks at the 2013 SAG awards. January Jones definitely wore the most bold gown of the night and her slicked back hair and bright red lipstick made her look like a rock star. The black and white Prabal Gurung gown had a unique neckline and the Mad Men star looked fierce. I would also like to point out my two best dressed men of the night. Ben Affleck looked insanely handsome in Gucci and Justin Timberlake’s Tom Ford suit and tie were perfect for the singer.

January Jones 2013 SAG awards — January Jones in Prabal Gurung at the 2013 SAG awards.

Justin Timberlake 2013 SAG awards — Justin Timberlake in Tom Ford

Finally, my best dressed of the night. Jessica Chastain looked absolutely regal in her red satin strapless Alexander McQueen gown. The dress fit her immaculately and the color looked brilliant against her flawless pale skin tone. Her loose wavy hair and toned down make up were impeccable. Jessica Chastain stood out last night at the 2013 SAG awards yet still wearing a classic silhouette and color.

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