Black & BrownTogether??

I've been asked a few times if black and brown can go together. The answer is, Yes! I've created just a couple of easy guidelines to pull it off perfectly. Now don't start thinking you can wear black socks with brown sandals. The world just isn't ready for that yet (or ever will be....) But black leggings with brown boots? Oh yeah! Take a peek at the pictures below and the quick explanations, then start experimenting.

See the difference the contrast makes for the entire outfit? This is a quick and easy way to update your overall look.

Usually with this black and white polka dot shirt, people would think to grab a black or even colored cardigan to pair it with. This darker beige goes great and totally pulls the outfit together.

Notice how the browns I have used are on the lighter side? This way it's a good contrast with the black. If you go too dark it starts to look like you may need to get your eyes checked because your shades are just a little off. We don't want that. By using obvious shade differences, it creates more of a contrast.

Good luck pairing black and brown! Let us know what you find!

~Holly

Six Ways to Style- Animal Print + Link Up

Here are Six Ways to Style another one of our Fashion Foundation pieces---animal print! Holly and I are both BIG into animal print and love to throw it on with many different outfits. If done right, it can add the just needed amount of pizazz to an outfit. You can go subtle with it or super sassy! The other plus of animal print is its versatility alongside color. Colors simply pop when paired with an animal print. Go get yourself some cheetah, giraffe, or zebra print and see what we mean!

1. Neon pink and a print:
Animal print looks stellar set off by a bold color. Since I am 100% on the neon trend this summer I paired my print with some hot pink shorts. The contrast between the two makes a casual outfit a bit more put together. A cute frilly T-strap sandal adds a comfy and cute walking around shoe.

Top: Gap (similar)
Shorts: Old Navy (similar)
Shoes: Marshalls (similar)

2. Zebra Comfort:
Yes ladies, what you have all been waiting for...a sweatshirt! This top has a great sequence print and a wider neck for detail. This is an easy way to still wear a sweatshirt and not look frumpy. Notice I chose a skinny jean for the bottom to balance the lack of shape on top. (Peek back at the "Styling Your Shape" blog for more tips on choosing the right shapes to compliment each other.) Of course a little zebra print flat completes the look. Note: The shirt had enough bling that I chose not to add a necklace.

Top: Shopko (Similar)
Pants: Herberger's (Union Bay)
Shoes: Target (Same)

3. Cheetah Bliss:
I purchased this gray cheetah print cardigan at Old Navy last year and have practically worn it out. It just seems to fit a bunch of outfits. I always look to it when I feel like my outfit is dull and missing something. The gray base of the cardigan acts as a great neutral and matches many colors. I have thrown it on a lot this summer in preparation for massive air conditioning in stores and restaurants. It is an all year round fave of mine for sure. Paired here with neon shorts makes for the perfect summer outfit.

Cardigan: Old Navy (similar)
Tank: Old Navy (similar)
Shorts: Gap Outlet (similar)
Necklace: American Eagle (similar)
Shoes: Herberger's (same)

4. Pop your Print:
A scarf is a great way to ease into the world of animal print. This is just enough detail to make a statement, but not enough to stand out in the crowd. I added a pop of color with the cardi to brighten up my look. The matching zebra print wedges finish this outfit off perfectly. Although don't be afraid to mix and match prints too. Just stay with matching tones, black and whites or browns and tans.

White T: Target (Same)
Cardigan: Older

Scarf: (Similar)
Jeans: Herberger's (Union Bay)
Shoes: Von Maur (similar)

5. Extra Mustard Please:
I truly believe one of the requirements for a piece to become a fashion foundation favorite is its ability to be styled for any season. This animal print top looked great in #1 with a pop of pink yet easily transitions to a fall out fit when paired with these mustard cords. The boat shoes lend a casual vibe to the look and you are set for a fall jaunt or errand.

Top: Gap (see link in #1)
Pants: Ann Taylor Loft (similar)
Shoes: Von Maur-Sperry
Statement Necklace: Older


6. Subtle but Sassy:
This subtle hint of print is a classy way to give your look a little sass. The sleeveless tank has tiny gold polka dots for added texture. I chose a denim skirt and cognac pumps to pull it all together. I chose the cream statement necklace to take the whole look up a notch.

Sleeveless: Gap (Similar)
Cardigan: Old Navy (Similar)
Denim Skirt: Target
Shoes: Burlington Coat Factory
Necklace: Groopdealz (Similar)



Link back to Style Elixir (http://www.stylelixir.com/)

Whippy Cake Girl Crush!

Ok...I have what I call a girl crush on Whippy Cake. I didn't want to call it an obsession because that sounded waaaay too unhealthy. Girl crush sounds more like the truth--I want to be crafty and cute just like her. She has loads of style and it is uniquely her own and she rocks it. Family is super important to her and she has adorable kids and hubs. So, who cares if I have a girl crush on her? What's the big deal? Why do we (or really just me, care?)Well--two things....

(1) I have grand plans of chopping my hair off like hers. I have already done step one by cutting off four inches and sporting a staggered bob. Step two will be trying to copy her ridiculously cute pixie cut. She has pictures and directions on her blog which I keep watching on a loop while I work up the guts to cut it all off.

(2) She USED to make the CUTEST headbands with rolled fabric flowers (and bunches of other sweetness). They were chic, vintage-y, and absolutely perfect. However, I discovered them AFTER she had JUST closed down her shop to focus on her beauty tutorials and consulting. Bummer. They are super trendy and popular right now and I just had to have one!

So---I promise I'll be back later rockin her pixie and telling y'all about it. Until then, I have to share my attempt at making a headband like the original Whippy Cake headbands. They aren't exactly like hers but they will have to do until she re-opens (PLEASE) her shop! As a creator, crafter, and designer myself I don't enjoy copycats but until she opens up her shop again, knock-offs will have to do.

Please check out Whippy Cake's blog! She has tons of great tutorials and tips! 

Let us know if you would like a full tutorial on how to make this headband cuteness! I learned from reading/watching a few tutorials I found on Pinterest. Thanks for indulging me and my girl crush! 

Pinspiration!: How to take a better picture (and the winner of our giveaway!!)

Many, many of us (especially women) do not enjoy being in front of a camera. We are constantly thinking about which body part is going to go rogue and take over the shot. Or there happens to be no pictures of Mom and we blame it on always being behind the camera. Let's face it, the truth is that we are more comfortable there. We are most critical of ourselves and we think that we never take a good picture. Emily and I both pinned this posing guide on pinterest and it has really helped us understand how to hold a pose to be happy with more pictures with us in them. Take some time and actually practice in front of a mirror (hold a brush and lipsync while you are at it--you know you want to!) Figure out which is your best side and which pose accentuates what you want featured. You could even go the extra mile and have someone actually take some pics of you doing each pose and pick from there. Store it in your memory and rock it the next time you find yourself in front of the camera!
**Extra photographer tip from Emily--notice that none of these poses have the arms against the sides of the body. It really doesn't matter how small or large your arms are, if you press them to your sides they are going to look larger than they really are--especially where they meet your back. Almost everyone's arms look thinner bent, and away from the body.

Now I just have to work on keeping my eyes open! Good thing our Six Ways posts don't have our heads in them!
~Holly

Our giveaway winner is: Asian Passion

Please email us at embellishedangel@gmail.com and we will exchange details so you can receive your outlaw bracelet and earrings!

YAY!! 

Six Ways to Style--a Basic White T

We are getting some awesome feedback about our Six Ways to Style posts! So many new ideas coming soon! A few people have asked us to style some of our Fashion Foundation pieces--things that most of you already have in your closets. So here we are with how to style a basic white T-shirt. BTW--we have also had a few requests to link where one can find similar outfit pieces...AS YOU WISH! Tomorrow is the last day to enter our giveaway!

Where to find some perfect white T's? We adore several of the styles Target sells. They are amazing because they have just the right amount of stretch and can be found in V-neck and crew neck. We were able to snag some on sale for between $5.00-$7.00!

1. Max It Out
We all know about my healthy addiction to all things maxi length. It seems so strange to me that I once feared the maxi length because of my shorter stature. Pairing a wine hued maxi skirt with a basic white T and a wide belt creates one of the cutest and most comfortable outfits I have had on in a while. I turned around and wore this exact outfit the next day!  Throwing on my awesome, studded Steve Madden gladiator sandals didn't hurt either.

White T: Target (see link above)
Belt: Von Maur (similar)
Skirt: Homemade (Thanks Mama!) (similar)
Shoes: Steve Madden, Von Maur (similar)
Necklace: Charlotte Russe (similar)


2. It's in the Bag
I love this laid back look. The camel/cognac tone is the perfect color to accessorize this basic look. I added the hat for a little flare and layered two gold longer necklaces to add a little dimension to finish it off. LOVE it!!

White T: Target (see link above)
Skinny jeans: Herberger's (Union Bay)
Sandals: Target (same)
Hat: Target (similar)
Bag: Garage Sale! (similar)


3. Green Expectations
Note that I chose green boyfriend capris for this look but really ANY colored bottom (of any length--pants, shorts, whateva!) will rock the look. I do really enjoy the contrast between the white and green and how the whole outfit looks simply put together.

White T: Target (see link above)
Pants: Old Navy (similar)
Shoes: Steve Madden (see link in #1)
Necklace: Forever 21  (similar)


4. Khaki Kool
White and khaki always make a good combo. These wide leg pants give a little extra detail to the entire look. I threw on one of my favorite beaded necklaces and of course my leopard flats. Stylish but simple.

White T: Target
Pants: Abercrombie (similar)
Flats: Target (same)
Necklace: Lia Sophia

5. Neon Niche
I just cannot get enough of neon this season. The bright, bold hues just make me giddy. Love. Love. Love. How perfect does this simple outfit become with a couple pops of neon accessories? Seriously people--this is so easy! How many of us run around in cut-offs and a white T but feel like a fashion slouch? It is so SIMPLE to add accessories and totally RAISE THE BAR! You can do it! 

White T: Target
Belt: Forever 21(similar)
Denim Shorts: American Eagle (similar)
Shoes: Relativity at Herberger's  (same)


6. Basic with a Bow
High waisted shorts are right it style these days. These are super comfy, and the bow is such a cute detail. I chose a coral bead necklace as the finishing touch, but really any statement necklace would go. Gray is an easy color to coordinate with. Nude pumps complete the look.

White T: Target (see link above)
Shorts: from my friend Leah (shout out to you girl!) (similar)
Necklace: Groopdealz
Pumps: garage sale! (similar)

Beauty Broadcast Meet and Greet!

I am an undiagnosed YouTube beauty addict! I discovered the awe and awesomeness of makeup and hair tutorials on YouTube about 4 years ago. I quickly found several tried and true favorites (see my post HERE with list of my FAVES) and I watch practically every video they upload. The amount of hair and beauty tricks I have picked up from these ladies over the years is pretty impressive. These ladies are really my version of celebrities! So you can imagine my excitement when one of my very, very FAVES announced that she would be traveling to Minneapolis for a Meet and Greet at the Sigma store at the Mall of America!! EEEEk! Emily Noel aka Beauty Broadcast was coming to meet her fans (me!), sign autographs and provide some Sigma deals...all a mere hop, skip, and jump from my backyard!! I rsvp'd immediately and counted down the days to my celebrity encounter! I took my middle daughter to act as my photographer to ensure I captured my mini meet and greet. We stood in line for about an hour before we had our turn. Emily was simply adorable in a coral dress and of course her makeup was flawless. I can hardly remember anything I said beyond the fact that we share the same first name. Doh! She was gracious and hugged me, posed for a photo (My photo made THE Sigma blog!), and signed a photograph for me. The ladies at Sigma were awesome too! I ended up buying a few makeup brushes while in the store. It really was a great event! Check out one of my favorite videos from Beauty Broadcast and then some pics from the event!

 

OOTD: Lace & Leather

Dress: Marshalls

Cardigan: Banana Republic

Boots: Macy's

I absolutely LOVE this dress. It is so adorable and super comfy to boot. I have paired it with a ton of different color schemes. Maybe a Six Ways post idea.... Any who, today I put it with my leather boots to pair a feminine lace look with a more masculine leather piece and it totally works! I added a belt to define my waist a little better and a few bangle bracelets. Outfit complete!

--Holly

Six Ways to Style--A Maxi Dress! + a Give Away!!

Be sure to read through to the end to enter our giveaway!

Just like our six ways post a few weeks ago about how to rock a maxi skirt....maxi dresses are still very on trend and so so comfortable to wear. I actually just got a brand new one from an adorable, small boutique in my town that is navy and white chevron!! Whoo hoo! It even has pockets!! Anywhoo--
We wanted to offer up a few ideas on how to style a few different maxis. You can see in our pics that a couple of the maxis are strapless which can be a bit tricky to style. In addition, some maxis can be a bit on the low cut side and styling them requires some choices in the cami department. Hopefully you can get some ideas for your own maxis to start sporting them around town!

1. You Are My Sunshine

...When skies are gray. This colorful, flower pattern cardigan is exactly what this gray maxi needs to brighten its day! The yellow pulled from the cardigan and accented with the bubble necklace adds so much life and color to the overall look. Some mistakenly think that maxis are only to be worn in warm weather...What?! They are actually perfect for cooler weather because of their length. All you need is a layering piece and you are good to go! 

Maxi: TJ Maxx

Cardi: Old Navy

Cami: Old Navy

Necklace: Groopdealz

Shoes: NY& Co

2. Cream of the Crop

I love this maxi dress! It is strapless, empire waisted with a stretchy fit on the top. It is SUPER comfy! The little pattern at the bottom gives it enough detail by itself, so accessorizing is a cinch. I just put a cream cardigan and a cream necklace with it, and it turned out so cute...and did I say comfy, SUPER comfy!

Maxi: Marshalls

Cardi: Charlotte Russe

Necklace: Groopdealz.com

Shoes: Target

3. Better with a Blazer

This is another example of how a maxi can be worn in any weather. I layered this up with a cami and a blazer. The blazer gives the maxi a bit more of a professional spin and some added warmth if needed. I  normally choose flats or flips to wear with my maxis because I like my maxis to brush the ground. Wedges and heels are pretty darn cute too thought. 

Maxi: TJ Maxx

Cami: Gap

Blazer: The Limited

Necklace: Maurices

Shoes: Target

4. All Tied Up

This is the same dress as Picture 2. I wanted to show different ways to style the same maxi dress. If you have a derss that is pretty basic, you can experiment and put together a bazillion different ways to wear it. Now that's using your closet wisely. This time I just used a chambray shirt...easy peasy lemon squeezy! (Yes, I have young kids.)

Maxi: Marshalls

Chambray: Charlotte Russe

Bracelet: hand made by yours truly (See our post on making statement bracelets!)

Shoes: NY&Co

5. Need Me Some Neon

Navy is one of those colors that can be used as a neutral.  The maxi and the necklace are both navy, so really I could have chosen any color cardigan to go with this. Of course I chose NEON! Love it this season! But really, any color would go. Try a coral, mint or turquoise. Just to name a few. Let us know if you found one that you love.

Maxi: TJ MAxx

Cardi: The Limited

Necklace: Groopdealz

Shoes: Target

6. Chambray Cover Up

I am almost embarrassed by how much I reach for the chambray top this summer. Its so hard to dress for indoor and outdoor temperatures! It can be 85-90 degrees outside but then you step into a store with the air conditioning on full blast and you nearly freeze to death. Be prepared with a quick on/off layering piece such as a chambray button up will mean that you will be both cute and comfortable. 

Maxi: TJ Maxx

Cami: Gap

Shirt: Kohl's

Bracelet: Burlington Coat Factory

Shoes: Old Navy

GIVE AWAY!

The winner of our give away will receive this outlaw bracelet and matching earrings in silver from our fave deal site--groopdealz! 

We are celebrating 2,000 (2, 507 to be exact!) views since our launch in early May! Thanks so much for your support! In order to enter to win you need to complete the following:

1. Comment below with your favorite outfit or tip from the blog! (Here's how!)

2. Follow our blog using Google Friend Connect (Here's how)

3. To be entered TWICE, share our blog on your Facebook or Pinterest page and leave another comment here with the link to your page. 

4. The deadline to enter is Sunday, July 21st. 

Good luck! We will choose a winner using random.org on the 21st. The winner will be contacted via email! 

Fashion Foundation: How to build a wardrobe of essentials {Bottoms}

We are back with another Fashion Foundation post! Make sure to check out our first FF post HERE http://tutormystyle.blogspot.com/2013/06/fashion-foundation-how-to-build.htmlon what tops you should have in your closet! This post will focus on BOTTOMS! --Which kinds and colors of pants will give you a solid fashion foundation that you can build endless outfits from! For a bit of fun extra reading and inspiration we are also going to link to several blog posts that really address issues with bottoms and how to get the look just right! These bloggers have said it perfectly so why should we try to duplicate?

~What are "mom jeans?"

~Avoiding the "mom jean" trap

~Why colored bottoms are worth the buy (Part of a GREAT blog series on how to remix your wardrobe!)

Now onto the pieces we think should be in your closet or at least on your shopping list!

1. Dark wash skinny jeans: (See our Six Ways to Style post featuring some dark wash loveliness)

A few reasons to own a pair of these--(1) The dark wash is slimming and flattering on just about anybody. (2) Almost every denim brand carries a version of these and you are bound to find one that suits your body style and your budget style. (3) They go with just about ANY color top. Perfect? Yep. 

2. Colored bottoms (preferably skinny or tapered leg) (We have several Six Ways to Style posts on these)

If cutie-pa-tootie Audrey from Putting Me Together did not convince you to own a few of these babies, I don't know what to tell you. Except that putting these on manage to look good and improve my mood. Seriously. 

3. Distressed/Boyfriend style denim:

These are not just for casual outfits. You can pair these with a fancy sweater and heels and knock it out of the park. They look adorable with flats, wedges, AND tennies. Adding in the fact that they are loose and comfy is simply a stunning bonus.

4. Black Leggings (See our Six Ways to Style post on these too!)

Black leggings are a wardrobe staple but they come with a few rules. #1 Make sure you buy a high quality pair that are NOT see through. #2 I am a firm believer that leggings are not pants. Wear them with tops that cover your rear or more. #3 Do not just treat them like tight yoga pants! Dress them up! Wear boot socks and cute boots. Throw on some flashy flats. 

5. Pencil Knee Length Skirt(s)

This skirt is a great staple especially if you get one in a great neutral (khaki, black, white, army green) and a versatile color. Wearing one instantly dresses up any top that you pair with it. Wear heels to really  kick it up a notch or flip flops or flats to bring a more casual vibe to the look. Add a belt with some panache to accessorize. 

6. Dressy pants/trousers

Whether you have to own this wardrobe staple for your job or you just want to have some on hand to avoid jeans rut, dressy trousers can really add versatility to your wardrobe. I prefer wide leg versions over straight leg or tapered leg ones. Again, owning a few neutrals will provide wonderful rotations of outfits for dressy or casual occasions. 

Let us know what other items you think are bottom fashion must-haves! 

Trend Watch: Bracelet Stacking!

One of my FAVORITE trends right now is bracelet stacking. Now, I am pretty particular when it comes to bracelets for a couple of reasons. First, I have pretty small wrists and most bangle type bracelets just don't work for me. I end up looking like I'm sporting a pair of handcuffs. Not cute. Not trendy. Secondly, sometimes adding a bracelet to my outfit adds just "too" much to the overall look. If I feel like I am accessorized-out, the bracelet is usually the first to go. However, once I started paying attention to what kind of bracelets (elastic and statement) looked the best on me, I began playing with them and finally falling in love with the bracelet look. The natural next step--for me anyway--was to wear 2, 3, or even 4 of my faves and--voila--bracelet stacking! This is trending lots of places right now so just make it your own. I even throw in a watch within the stack to give it a chunky look. You'll also notice my obsession with spiked jewelry in the pics too. Worried that you won't be able to put a stack "together?" Buy a set that has already been placed together! Places I am purchasing stackable bracelets:

1. Target
2. Burlington Coat Factory
3. Charlotte Russe
4. Forever 21
5. Groopdealz
6. Old Navy (In-Store only)

This entire stack came TOGETHER at Burlington for $6.99!

I am IN LOVE with this outlaw spiked bracelet from Groopdealz (far right)

Try out this trend and let us know what you think! 

OOTD: Red, White & YOU edition!

Here's what we wore to celebrate our freedoms and those who fought for them!

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY! 

Trend Watch: Belts, Belts, Belts

Belts can be the perfect tool to give a little definition to your waist line. I found this great guide for different ways to tie up the floppy tail of your belt. This detail gives just a little added flare to your style. It looks like your just accessorizing when it's practical too.  Perfect, I am all for being efficient! I find myself grabbing for a belt if I'm wearing a maxi dress or skirt and feelin' like I need a little something for that ever so hard region to disguise. I also throw one on when my top is a little too flowy and I need to cinch it in a little. Take a look back through some of our posts and see the different ways we have used belts to add to our attire.

I find myself using the top Left and the third one down on the Left the most often.

 I would say if your looking to get started on the "Belt Wagon", find a neutral colored skinny belt (maybe a bright color if you're feeling adventurous) and one thicker one. Just practice with them a little bit and get comfortable with some different ways to fasten them. Make sure to buy a bigger size to have extra tail to tie. Find the way that works best for you. Good Luck! Let us know what you find!

-- Holly