Six Ways to Style~{Leopard Print Skirt}

No one could ever say that the TMS ladies don't love themselves some animal print. It is part of our Fashion Foundation and we swear that our animal print flats go with EVERYTHING. We are applying the same philosophy to this rockin skirt! At first I just stared at it and could not for the life of me land on a way to style it. I was flipping through my Pinterest boards and caught someone wearing orange and leopard and was like...ummm..Bingo! The ideas kept rolling from there. I even wore it the other day with tights and LOVED it! Talk about a 4 season staple!

The one in our pics is nearly sold out online at the Limited. Get it while you can!

1. Craving Cognac
Love this color jacket! (Watch for a Six Ways post coming soon featuring a cognac jacket.)  It's the same color as the skirt, but not too matchy-matchy. The details on the cuffs and the pop of red for a shoe give the perfect amount of dimension to tone down the leopard, all the while staying completely stylish.

Jacket: Limited
Shirt: Limited
Necklace: Limited
Heels: Herbergers (Bandalino)

2. Green Scene
Who knew you could wear so many different colors with leopard print! I chose to pair a black and cream small striped tank as a layering shirt under the green sweater. Don't be afraid to put different prints together. See Print on Print post. You wouldn't have to use the black vest, but I looked ALL belly without out, so I opted for it this time. Lastly, a pair of bling-ed out nude flats to pull it all together.

Sweater: Good Will! $6.99. (Banana Republic)
Tank: Nordstrom Rack
Vest: WalMart
Flats: Target

3. Orange Oasis
LOVE it!! This tends to be what I grab when I wear this skirt. However now that we've put our heads together, it may not be in first place any more. (Although I am still in love with it!) The colors are great and the belt gives extra definition where it's needed. A pair of black pumps is the finishing touch.

Cardigan: Limited
Sleeveless: Old Navy
Belt: Limited
Heels: JC Penney

4. Back in Black
Black is an easy choice to go with this skirt. If you want to try the skirt, but you're not really sure if it's too loud for you, this is a perfect way to ease into it. This look is very classic/chic. I chose to put on brown boots and a coral statement necklaces for the finishing touches. Viola!

Jacket: Older
Shirt: Target
Necklace: GroopDealz
Boots: Macy's clearance rack

5. Mustard Must Do
The mustard goes great with this print. The cardigan is a shade darker and compliments the sleeveless shirt perfectly. The skinny gold belt draws the line between shirt and skirt to define it. I chose a pair of black leather boots for the colder weather, and it adds just the right amount of masculinity to this otherwise feminine look.

Cardigan: Limited
Sleeveless: New York & Co
Belt: Target
Boots: Charlotte Russe

6. White Out
White on white is an easy way to be simple with style. The layering shirt is a couple of shades darker than the blazer to add a little detail. I chose a pop of red for a scarf and played it safe with those amazing nude pumps. Perfect!

Shirt: Target
Blazer: Good Will
Scarf: handmade by Emily's Mom!
Heels: Payless

Fashion Foundation: {Shoes}

This post on what you should have in your foundation closet for shoes has been soooo difficult for me to articulate and write. I cannot in any honesty sit here and tell you to only buy a set few basic pairs of shoes and make every outfit work with them. Why? Well--confession time--I don't really believe you can have too many shoes. There. I said it. I stopped counting my own pairs at 80. Yes. 80. If you could win a medal in clearance shoe shopping, I would have several gold ones. And I know that 80 is a big number for some of you but a tiny number for a crowd of you too. Own it and accept it wherever you are in the shoe realm. No judgement or snarky comments here. Now that that's off my chest I do want to actually talk about shoes for a bit. Shoes are a very personal thing to a lot of people. There are the people who are totally shoe-comfort people. There are those that suffer in their shoes for fashion. There are those that wear the shoe if it fits regardless of comfort or style. I am one of those that enjoys comfort but will totally suffer if an uncomfortable shoe makes an outfit outstanding. Shoes have the ability to take an outfit from blah to BAM in about 2 seconds.

There are four main types of shoes to keep in mind when you are out shopping. Having a nice variety in each category (3-4 of each maybe?....who am I kidding?!) will give your shoe foundation a solid start.

1. Boots: All types. All heels, heights, and colors. Let your boot socks peek out and you just mastered the art of adorable.

2. Flats: Comfort and fashion make nice and play in these babies. Invest in a great insole though. It will give your foot the proper arch that flats can sometimes, well, fall flat on. (EVERYONE needs a pair of cheetah/jaguar print flats. We firmly believe they go with just about anything and everything!!)

3. Pumps: Ditto on the boots. Love my black and nude pumps. I wear them all the time.

3. Sandals: Wedges, strappy, T-style, gladiator...on and on and on. Yum.

The biggest deal about shoes however comes in the next four items--regardless if we are talking boots, pumps, or sandals. You must consider these four things when buying any shoes and when choosing what to wear each day.

1. Heel: 
What is your day going to be like? Will you be sitting most of the day? Standing? Walking long distances? What is the hemline of your pants? You should have several shoes that have different heel heights to accommodate your outfit and your lifestyle. Again, we strongly suggest investing in a stellar insole to maximize your comfort level while in heels.

2. Color
The color of your shoe can be the ONE thing that makes your outfit stand out. Wearing all black? Pop with a green flat or heel. Rocking a particularly loud colored outfit? Tone it down with a lovely nude pump. Accent with a cognac accessories including a great cognac boot and your whole outfit will look effortlessly pulled together. Try and find 3-4 pairs of shoes in universally flattering colors and they will make your outfits look amazing. My four favorites? Mustard, green, red and an animal print. Add in a few neutral leather tones and you will be SET.

3. Purpose
Let's be honest. A shoe can ruin an outfit too. If the shoe does not match the purpose of the outfit...ouch. You could have a perfectly pulled together outfit and then throw on the wrong shoes and the whole thing goes down the drain. For example: Adorable lace tee, jean jacket, boyfriend style green capris and.....running shoes. Really? Running shoes are for RUNNING. They have a purpose. Use them for that purpose. Want comfy tennis-like shoes to finish off this outfit? Try a pair of Vans or Sperrys instead. Similarly, don't wear an adorable dress and then finish it off with a pair of Keens. Gracious. Some of you are thinking...but my Keens (or tennis shoes) are comfy. I get it. I don't disagree with you. However, I do think you can have comfort AND style at the same time.

4. Weather
There is nothing worse (fashion wise) than choosing to wear flats on a rainy day only to step in a puddle and ruin your shoes AND the hem of your pants. Trust me, I've been there and it bites. I now have no problem mucking around in my Bogs and then changing into my cute flats once I am INSIDE. Keep your shoes from being ruined by watching and paying attention to the weather. Be willing to keep your feet warm when warranted and break out the cute shoes when they are in no danger of getting snow and salt damage (this is a huge reality where I am from). I learned the hard way to protect my shoe investment.

If you were starting from scratch, the pics of shoes above would all be a great start to building a shoe foundation. Is there a shoe you can't live with out that goes with everything? Let us hear about it!

Styling Your Shape: Horizontal Stripes

Stripes! Horizontal stripes are no longer a No-No. Now they are an Oh-Yes! The old rule was no horizontal stripes because it made you look wider than you really are. However, if you find the right pattern, it will be more flattering than you think. Give it a chance!

The striped dress is one of my ALL TIME favorites!! The black and white works well with any color of accessories. This one piece creates a ton of different looks! And totally classy! LOVE!! Remember the Black and Brown post, some brown boots would be amazing with this dress!

A basic white and navy Striped shirt is in our original Fashion Foundation post. This is one of my favorites, I wear it ALL of the time as a neutral and for layering.

Notice the different colors and widths of the stripes. Pick one that works best for you. Let us know what you find.


~Holly

Fashion Foundation: {Outer Layers}

Part three in our Fashion Foundation series! Check out our FF Tops and FF Bottoms posts too!

Layering is one of my favorite go-to fashion strategies. There is just something about an outer layer (or two!) that simply finishes off an outfit. The awesome thing about outer layers too is their versatility. A really good set of outer layer pieces can be mixed and matched to create dozens of outfits. We have linked examples of each piece this time--everything from Target and under 50 bucks! Whoo hoo! I cannot wait to show you at the end of our FF posts some outfits we have put together using only our FF pieces! Coming soon!

1. Blazers (Example)
Gone are the heavy shoulder padded blazers of the 80's folks. Today's blazers come in several cuts, lengths, and hues. I personally like my blazer to have a few darts in just the right places to give off slimming benefits. I cannot live without my boyfriend cut black blazer and often throw it over an outfit to give it that little extra BAM! I suggest owning a black blazer, a colored one that mixes well with your tops, and a blazer with a stripe. These three can be rotated beautifully--and add major options to your overall wardrobe.

2. Leather Jackets (Example)
These are not intended to act as weather related accessories but the beauty of them is that they DO! How great is it that they can provide warmth and style at the same time?! Look for leather jackets in neutral hues with feminine accents like ruffles or quilting. These accents keep the piece from looking too masculine. Leather jackets are perfect for layering over flowy tops or fitted shirts. Nail it big time by pairing a leather jacket over something super feminine like a lacey top.

3. and 4. Cardigans (Example) (Example)
I feel like such a crazy person when it comes to cardigans. I LOVE LOVE LOVE them for layering and have WAY too many. Granted I am a super sale shopper but my cardigan count is a bit out of control. I can't even type it here for fear that my husband with will read this and have an aneurysm. Anyway--cardigans are essential for layering purposes. We recommend a set of neutral cardigans, several pops of color, and for sure an animal print or two. Try and find cardigans with small details and embellishments such as sequins or lace. You will not regret having this foundation piece ever!

5. Jean Jacket (Example)
I wish I could say you could recycle your old denim jacket from days gone by but the answer is no. The denim jackets you can find now have so many things going for them. Find one that has a slightly  distressed tone and fitted shape. You can seriously throw this over dresses, flowy tops, fitted tops, anything. Work it in as a foundation piece to your outfits! (Side note--I use my chambray button up from the FF tops post just like a jean jacket but for warmer environments)

Are there other pieces that you HAVE TO have when it comes to outer layers? Share in the comments!

Next Fashion Foundation Post: Shoes!! 

Six Ways to Style--Blue skinnies!

I have owned this blue pair of skinnies for nearly two years and am still madly in love with them. I worried a bit when I bought them that they would be a flash-in-the-pan trend...not so! September's issue of InStyle magazine has this cobalt hue as a huge fall trend to watch and wear. I snagged mine at Marshall's for a song and they are still paying dividends! We hope you can see how many different ways you can style this bold hue.

Where to find some blue skinnies/bottoms of your own:
Old Navy: Boyfriend cropped
Old Navy: Skinny
Gap: Straight Cords

1. Black and Blue
This look is perfect for Sunday morning church service or a night out on the town. The cardigan brings the texture, while the sleeveless brings the bling. It goes great with the bright blue to take it up a notch! Love it!!

Cardigan: Target (similar)
Sleeveless: Good Will $3.99! (similar)
Shoes: Payless (similar)

2. Right Stripes
This outfit takes advantage of the monochromatic look--wearing the same color from head to toe. The shirt is broken up by a gray stripe which works perfectly with the large, comfy cardigan. Silver accessories finish up the look.

Top: Von Maur (similar)
Cardigan: Von Maur (similar)
Pants: Marshalls
Shoes: Target (similar)

3. Right as Rainbow
Color Blocking! YAY! One of my favorite trends right now. There is a little blue detail in the tank to pull it together, but the pink says POW! I love it! This is a great summer look to brighten anyone's day. I chose a nude flat...to not get too crazy...and I didn't want to take away from the outfit itself.

Cardigan: Gap (similar)
Tank: Wal-Mart $3.00! (similar)
Shoes: Von Maur (Born) (similar)


4. Leather and Lace
I love mixing masculine and feminine pieces together in an outfit. The leather jacket's edgy vibe is softened by the lace, neutral top. This neutral pairing on the top begs for a pop of color on the bottom and these blue pants are just the ticket. Cognac wedges and gold accessories add some essential shine.

Jacket: Target (same-on clearance for 19.99!)
Top: Limited  (similar)
Pants: Marshalls
Shoes: Target (similar)
Necklace: Charlotte Russe (similar)

5. Are you blushing?
I found this color combo on Pinterest. I was looking for some ideas of  colors that I wouldn't usually put together, but as soon as I saw them I wondered, "Why didn't I think of that?" This blush shirt with the white jacket plays as a base to tone down the poppin' pants. I added a little cognac color for accessories for the finishing touch.

Blazer: Cotton On (similar)
Shirt: Target (similar)
Shoes: Target (similar)

6. Chevron Comfort
We get it. Sometimes you just wanna be (have to be) comfy. However, we do not get why comfy should be frumpy? Comfy can be cute and it does not take anymore effort than frumpy comfy does. Take this outfit for example: Perfect tee, casual cardi, and an adorable print scarf= super comfy AND cute. Plus you could walk around all day in these essential nude flats. Lets unite and demand comfy and cute!

Scarf: Homemade
Tee: Target (same)
Cardigan: Gap Outlet (similar)
Shoes: Kohl's (see link above for nude flats #3)
Bracelets: Stacked



 

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)

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

Every woman's closet is distinctly different. Different favorites. Different essentials. Different style. We all have our own sense of personal style and our own definition of what style even means. However, I believe we can all build our own style on a similar foundation of wardrobe essentials. Over the next couple of weeks, we are going to share posts about certain pieces that belong in every closet. Pieces that can be built off of and styled many different ways by each one of us. We in no way think everyone should own each of these pieces but I do think they are great starting points for great outfits. They also will help alleviate the "closet death stare" when you absolutely cannot find ANYTHING to wear. Anybody feeling me here? We are going to start with the 6 TOP/SHIRTS foundation pieces. Comment and share what you think should be added to the list!

1. White and Chambray button up
These are my go-to-pieces for just about anything. I use them under sweaters, over tanks, and alone and it all WORKS. They have no season and can be used in warm and cold months. A light chambray shade goes with just about anything but I have a dark wash one as well. Start with a shade that you love and add others over time. Roll the sleeves and rock it!

2. Basic T's
Start with black and white T's....and then add more neutrals over time. Some people would say you need tanks, and T's, and long sleeves but I think it all depends on your climate and your layering preferences. I really don't care for long sleeves T's because I tend to layer with a blazer or a cardigan and long sleeves get bunchy and drive me crazy. I'm a T and tank kind of girl. Add a oatmeal one and a gray one over time and you will have the foundation for just about any outfit.

3. Basic Tanks
I hate when people repeat themselves so I won't. See my rambling reasons above regarding basic T's and you'll get the idea for tanks too. Make sure you find a neckline that you are comfortable with and buy several colors of the same brand. I also like to buy mine a bit on the long side for layering with leggings. (BTW-- I often repurchase white T's and tanks each year...they can look dingy after a year of use and a new one is a better option.)

4. Stripes and Polka dots
I am obsessed with these two patterns and I find they can really make an outfit POP! Mixing these patterns is totally okay as well. Find a basic stripe and dot with a neutral background and it will become your fashion best friend. Throw on a bold colored cardigan or blazer and your outfit is practically set!

5. Texture and Color
Every wardrobe needs a few loud and colorful pieces to throw on when life gets dreary. So many people say, "I just can't wear 'that' color" or "You can wear that color but I could never pull it off." My answer is....just do it. Find 2-3 colors that look great with your skin tone and rotate them through your outfits. And while your at it, buy tops with interesting fabric draping or lace accents. Even with just a pair of jeans, these bold, detailed tops can make you look fancy and pulled together. If the color scares you a bit, throw a neutral cardigan over it to tone it down a tiny, teeny bit.

6. Animal Print
I love me some animal print...zebra....cheetah....bring it! I truly believe an animal print T or blouse is a fashion foundation piece. You can stay neutral with your pants and outer layer, but if you've thrown in a cheetah print top you have a winner! Keep the animal print simple and classy and it will be a wardrobe workhorse for you.

Styling Your Shape

Most of us REAL women don't have the perfect beach body. We have post baby bods, sometimes without the baby. Whether it's been 6 weeks or 6 years from our last baby (or extra piece of cake), that extra love remains. So we try everything and nothing works. We eventually give up on the dream of rock hard abs and chiseled legs. However what we wear is the perfect master of disguise if you know how to use it. I've created a few tips to create instant illusions of the perfect body without having the perfect body! Read on....

1. Flowy with structure on top and shaped on the bottom.
Unless you have the opposite problem of what you're trying to minimize, then reverse the shapes (shaped on top, flowy on the bottom). Flowy with structure on the top is the best way to hide any unwanted curves around the stomach area and bum, and the fitted or structured shape on the legs gives the illusion of the slimmer shape continuing up under the flowy piece. It's all a trick of the eye...Try a great flowy shirt, structured jacket with some skinny jeans. If you want to add heels, that always makes the legs look leaner and longer. (But I get it if you have younger kids that you are chasing all day. If I wear a heel, I usually keep a flat close by in case I need to sprint off when my son climbs a tree. I speak from experience!) You'll be amazed at how good you look! Make sure to keep reading to help pick the perfect pieces for you.

2. Buy clothes that fit. 
If you buy a shirt that is too big with plans to hide under it.....Guess what? It looks like you're trying to hide...which you are, but you don't want everyone else to know that. If you buy clothes that fit you properly, it shows off your natural curves and doesn't look like you're bigger than you really are. The inverse of this idea applies too. Avoid buying clothing that is too tight or two small. Wearing something that is too tight actually can make you look bigger than you actually are. Wearing the size that allows a little movement to the garment is actually way better.

3. Invest in a good bra.
You know what I'm talking about. It costs money but it makes a difference. Trust me! The best way to know you're wearing the right size is to go in a get measured. I know it may sound awkward, but it's not that bad. Make a girl date with a friend and do it together (separate dressing rooms, but together). When I did, I found out I was wearing the wrong size around and I was off 2 sizes in the cup! I didn't think it would be hard to find a proper bra on my own, but man I was wrong. This is one investment you will not regret...ever! Nordstrom's does an excellent job at measuring and helping you find the perfect fit.

4. Structure.
Make sure to have a couple of pieces that have some structure built into them. If you have a jacket/blazer that has great lines in itself, you don't have to worry about your natural lines. The jacket has them for you. The jacket should be darted in at the waist line and go out slightly at the bottom. This gives the hour glass figure even though that's not what's underneath. Viola!

This blazer has excellent waist darts and a clean line.

5. The right length.
Find the right length for you. The worst thing is finding a great dress but it stops below the knee. Not many people can pull that off. (If you're one of those people, tell me your secret!) Usually it's instant frumpiness! We don't want that. Even this super skinny model in the picture below doesn't look that great. The best lengths tend to be 1-2 inches above the knee or down to the ground. Don't be afraid to tailor a piece if you find something you love, but it's the wrong length. This is usually very inexpensive.

Not the most flattering length...on anybody!

6. Most importantly -CONFIDENCE!
The way you carry yourself is the biggest eye catcher! Since the good Lord made you a woman..Embrace it! Find a way to be confident again. Do something for yourself! Get a great hair cut, buy a couple of great pieces to add to your wardrobe, take a nap- whatever floats your boat--but find it! Other people will notice and so will you!

Let us know any great ideas of how you keep your confidence-o-meter full or if you had good results trying some of these tips. We would love to hear from you!

--Holly