Could it be? Swimsuit Season!

So I know around this time of the year everyone is dreading swimsuit season.  However, I think once you see some of the looks from this season's swimwear collection I assume that you will get just about as giddy as I did.

I have to admit that I'm not a two piece girl.  Even if I had the body for a two piece I doubt I would be in one.  However, there are a few suits this year that would make me change my mind if my physique was a little more up to par!

I'm a big fan of this retro look from Tori Praver.  One of my favorite aspects of this look is that it has a more mature cut and provides more coverage then two pieces.  I also love the print - the color combination is one that you can pull off even if you don't tan so well.  It's a little pricey, but if you get a lot of use out of your swimwear I think it's well worth it!

Tory Praver Betty Top - $93, Bottoms - $84

For those of you like me who need a bit more coverage, I opt for a one piece.  But I definitely don't go for the traditional old school styles - I want something edgy that's unique and shows that I'm not ready to be out of my 20's just yet!  DVF (Diane Von Furstenberg) has some fabulous pieces for the girl who is looking for just that.  These two are my favorites from her recent collection - aren't they fabulous? 

DVF Bash One Piece, $220

DVF Stefania, $200

And FYI - La Blanca is one of my favorite more affordable swimwear lines.  And let me tell you - they can make anyone look skinny and fabulous.  I love these two pieces...I have one similar to the turquoise and I was always getting compliments and being asked if I lost weight - bonus!  

La Blanca Ruffled One Piece, $109

La Blanca 'Sahara' Bikini

And for the swimsuit that's great for the lake or for you ladies who don't hit the beach or the pool as often as you like, here is a look from Target's Mossimo Mix and Match Collection that is more affordable.  You could get two bottoms for one top or vice versa - all offered in a variety of colors!  

Mossimo Mix and Match $12-20

Now you can hit the town pool or beach on vacation in style!  

XOXO, Allison

Blog Spotlight - Bex...a Style Diary

It's amazing to me how many of you point me to new sites all of the time.  You guys are the best correspondents ever.  One of my top reporters, my sister-in-law, pointed me to a great blog from Bex - a real life fashion forward woman who's self proclaimed motto is, "finding great looking clothes for a great price."

Now I have to admit that it certainly doesn't help that Bex is a naturally beautiful blog with a figure that has to give most clothing designers the muse that inspires them to create the pieces in the first place.  However, Bex is no label snob and her combinations are cutting edge and unique - making her style worth blogging about!

Her blog includes many features - her finds on upcoming designers to watch for, some insight into her home decor and personal grooming habits, and my personal favorite - the outfit breakdown!  This is something that I have been wanting to do but haven't had the time.  Check out this look from her blog: 

Breathtaking, right?  I love her easygoing fashion sense - it is dead on.  However, what you may not know is that this gorgeous lady has some pieces that aren't from the New York runway.  In fact, this entire outfit is composed of pieces from Target, Ann Taylor Loft, Fossil, and JCPenney's.  Seriously, this girl is my inspiration!  

So check out her blog for affordable ways to look stylish, be comfortable, and express your inner fashionista - on a budget of course!  

XOXO, Allison

Maintaining your Investment

So if you're like my sister-in-law you are wondering several things:
a. Why do you spend so much money on clothes?  You are crazy.
b. How do you maintain these expensive quality items without destroying them

Well...I'll be honest - it's not easy.  I used to be that shopper who went into the store and was like, "that's cute, I want it."  Then I would come home to find out it was dry clean only or hand wash.  Ugh.  Who has the money to dry clean all of their clothes or the time to hand wash 20 sweaters.  Not me - and I definitely don't have the space for it these days.

That's why I always read the label - especially when it comes to the type of clothing it has.  If it's an item I'm going to wear to work every once in awhile like a suit or sweater, I don't mind if it's dry clean only.  When it's a seasonal or occasion item, I normally take it to the dry cleaners at the end of the season along with my dry clean only coats.  This is a great way to prep your items for storage.  However, if it's an item like a dress or top that I know I will be wearing out (and hence will risk being around smoke, alcohol, and damage) I put it back on the rack.  Those items HAVE to be dry cleaned after every wear.  And if you put it back in your closet, chances are some of your other items are going to need to be dry cleaned during your next trip.  And no one likes a three digit dry cleaning bill.

Hand wash items are easy if you have a decent washer and dryer these days.  Even though it's annoying to buy 20 different kind of detergent - invest in Woolite!  It's honestly the best invention ever.  I prefer the Kroger knock off version because it's half the price for the same amount and quality of detergent.  I always pair my delicates (bras and undies) and my hand wash only clothes in the same load on the gentle or hand wash cycle.  The trick is to not dry these items  - if you do, you'll be handing them down to your teen sister, your pet dog...you get the idea.  It's also a great idea to do a separate load of jeans on the same load settings.  If you turn them inside out and run them on gentle you are sure to maintain that extra special distressing or dark rinse you paid extra for!

What about embellishments and those little extra adornments that hypnotize you in the store but loose their luster and quality after one wear?  Here's the most important bit of advice I have for you.  If you wear the piece once or twice and it's already starting to deteriorate - take it back.  If you got it at Target or Forever 21 they are probably going to look at you and say, "So what?" - however, if it's from a higher end store like Nordstrom or Anthropologie they will more than likely give you your money back or provide an in store credit.  Higher end stores know that customers come to them for quality and they want to maintain that relationship - therefore you are always right!  Don't take advantage though...because then they might grow suspicious!  When it comes to caring for the items - read the label.  If it's a less expensive item then try the gentle cycle in your washer & dryer.  However, if it's an expensive item opt for dry cleaning.  A great way to make the final determination is to examine how the piece is attached.  If it appears pretty secure it will more than likely be okay in the washer.  Sometimes it's a chance you have to be willing to take...

Lastly, your shoes.  I can't tell you how many times I have been burned by shoes.  However, higher end brands want you to be happy and want you to come back for more.  On several occasions I have had shoes that did not mix with my lifestyle.  I would wear them once and the leather would be ruined.  Finally, I called Nordstrom to explain what had gone on.  They assured me that as long as I had the box I could return the shoes and receive a refund or in store credit.  It was super easy - the important thing to remember is to keep all of your paperwork...especially if they are more than $100.  That's a big loss that you don't want to risk.  Additionally, when a certain shoe suggests a care item like the Ugg sheepskin care set - ask more questions.  If you think you're not going to wear the boots or shoes more than one season than skip it.  However, if you want to keep these shoes looking great for several years - invest in the set.  It makes a world of difference if you want to keep your shoes looking brand new years later.

So there you have it - by maintenance wisdom straight to your computer.  Now you don't have to be so leery of spending a little extra the next time you are at the mall - just ask the right questions, take the right steps, and be responsible.  Your clothes just may outlive you!

XOXO, Allison

Toms - Love Em or Hate Em

Okay...so Toms - you either love em or you hate em.  Trust me, I used to be leaning towards hate em.  I mean, as much as I wanted to support a good cause I just couldn't get over how... unattractive they were.  True, they are comfortable and are definitely functional; however, it was hard for me to look past the "granola-hipster" vibe they created.  Nothing against you hipsters with that, "I'm so cool without trying" style - I envy you.  Even so, I'm a preppy girl (my friends once referred to my conservative style as The First Lady) and I just couldn't find a way to jump on the Toms bandwagon.

However, in the last season the Toms creative team has come out with some truly fun designs that are actually fashionable - with creative patterns and unique materials.  I purchased this pair of Gilded Herringbone Toms several months ago and let me tell you - this is a great weekend shoe.  They are so comfy - and I love throwing them on to let the dogs out or go to the grocery store.

So - I can officially say that I'm a hipster-wannabe because now I have a pair of Toms.  However, I think if you try them out you will be pleasantly surprised.  And...if you hate them give them to someone in need - now 2 people are getting shoes who need them :).  That's got to be a tax write off, right?  (Kidding...it's Monday and a little sarcasm is required).  

  

XOXO, Allison

An April Favorite - BRIGHT Separates

As Joan Rivers said on Fashion Police, "who would have thought Sinbad had it right all of these years?"

Well, bold and bright separates are in right now - and the bolder the combination the better.  Stars have recently been shown pairing purple pants with orange tops - and making the best dressed lists!  If done right, this look can be exceptional!

Joe Jonas ex, Camilla Belle

One of my favorite sites, Shopbop has dedicated an entire lookbook to this trend and here are some looks that I am dying to emulate!  

I'm obsessed with how chic and fun this Rachel Roy blouse and skirt look together.  It looks like the perfect look to hit the town on for a casual luncheon with the girls.  Unfortunately, most of us aren't on the Real Housewives of (Insert your city here) so we can afford $700 on a "social" outfit.  So here's how to mimic this look for less. 

Frenchi Silky Sleeveless Tunic, $32

Express Quilted Wristlet, $15.90

T-Bags Skirt $160

Another look from the look book that really stood out to me was this gorgeous purple and pink  ensemble.  Now as most of you know, purple is my favorite color so perhaps I am a bit biased.  Again, a bit expensive for the girl on a budget.  

So here's how to achieve the look for less. 

Purple Skirt, American Apparel - $54

Clear Frame Sunglases, $16.99

Loft by Ann Taylor Woven Back Pullover, $20

So say hello to  brights and jump on the bandwagon. This is when my engineer mind needs to walk out the door and my very minute artsy side needs to take over - the more eclectic the better!

XOXO, Allison

The T-Shirt...a Spring Must Have

This season you favorite tee is making appearances everywhere - even on the runway!  That's right, designers like Jill Sander are pairing their favorite looks with a classic tee.  So, this season finding the perfect t-shirt has become a must!

Jill Sander Maxi Skirt with Classic T-shirt

Almost every brand under the sun makes the basic tee, but a few brands create a soft, comfortable, fashionable t-shirt that stands out amongst the rest.

One of my favorite go-to brands for classic pieces that you can wear alone or pair with just about anything in your closet is Splendid.  There t-shirts are so comfy you will want to sleep in them!  Normally, the content is 50% cotton, 50% modal...making it an exceptional blend that retains it's shape while still providing a soft look.  The brand will be more cost up front, but the classic cut and obvious longevity of the piece will allow you to pair this look years later as long as you take care of your clothes!

Splendid Long Sleeved Top, $65

Another of my favorites is James Perse.  This line has so many classic, staple pieces that will provide a lot of versatility and interchangeability in your wardrobe.  The fit on the tees is exceptional and are  offered in a variety of neutrals, brights, and "need" colors.

James Perse Scoop-neck Cotton Tee, $50

If you're looking for something that provides the same characteristics for about half of the price, check out the Nordstrom BP line.  Although it is considered their "junior" line, the BP Basics are needs for every girl's wardrobe.  This adorable girlfriend tee is available in 15 shades and is only $20!

Frenchi Girlfriend Tee, $20

So don't just save your t-shirts for the weekends - now you can pair them with just about everything or wear them alone to create a chic, classic look right off the runway!  

XOXO, Allison

Real Life Fashionista Spotlight on Mary Rice

The newest segment here at the Nerdy Fashionista is a spotlight on every day fashionistas.  These are fashionable ladies with a keen eye for what's hot and what's not - even if Vogue doesn't tell them so!

Our first spotlight is on Mary Rice, a high school senior and cosmetology student who has already been excelling in hair shows at the Midwest. Remember her name - this girl is going to be working at Fashion Week some day, I just know it.

I met Mary through her sister (and my BFF), Sarah.  If I had to describe Mary's style in one word it would be edgy.  She has that natural coolness factor that many women envy, and stars like Gwen Stefani have made millions from.

Here are some questions that I had Mary fill out.  I think they provide a lot of insight into her personal style: 

NF: What's your favorite piece of clothing or go to outfit? 

MR: I'd have to say my grey pencil skirt.  It's always classy and stylish and easy to pair different looks    with.

NF: Where do you buy most of your clothes? 

MR: Forever 21 - it's youthful and fun...and affordable

NF: What do you look for when buying clothes or accessories?

MR: I tend to go for patterns - the more unique the better.  I also love purple because it looks great with skin color. 

NF: What's your favorite trend right now?

MR: Hot Pants - My body is perfect for them 

NF: Must be nice!  

NF: Who is your fashion inspiration? 

MR: I've never intentionally followed anyone.  I just have my own style and I buy what I like and what I think looks good on me. 

It definitely doesn't hurt that Mary is a gorgeous girl with legs I would die for!  However, the real thing I envy (and was truly makes her a fashionista) is that Mary knows her style so well that she no longer has to try to look great - it's just part of her daily routine.  

Thanks Mary for being our Fashionista this month - I wish I would have been as gutsy with fashion as you are at your age!  

XOXO, Allison