The Right Mind Set

Lately I've been thinking about what it takes to make it in this crazy industry, and I've discovered you just have to keep pushing forward in order to really get ahead of the game.  My good friend and gorgeous model was in town this past weekend and she definitely opened up my eyes to a whole new set of ideas and thoughts.  I never realized that with all the free time I have, I could be doing something productive, like getting ahead of my career.  Her number 1 point was, what happens when I win Miss New York USA and I want to tell people, "oh hey, i'm a stylist" and yet I have nothing to show for it?  Well I guess that needs to change, right?

So here's to hoping I can do just that.  Dani and I had an amazing photo shoot this past weekend as well.  I can't release images yet because we are going to try to get them published, but trust me when I say, they are to die for.  Never have I seen more amazing images that truly tell a story.  Dani went from sweet, innocent girl, to badass russian chick.  It was pretty amazing and I was lucky enough to do the hair/makeup and styling. We shot in an amazing location as well and the photographer was fantastic!  Stay tuned for that post!  You will be blown away.

Also if anyone wants help revamping their wardrobe, let me know!  I want to get some of that on film and take photographs, kinda like a beyond the closet type thing, so if you are interested let me know!

xoxo,
A

Sherri Hill Fashion Show '14

Sherri Hill, who is known for designing killer couture gowns, just had her fashion show in New York City.  Some familiar faces were seen on the runway, such as Miss Alabama USA 2013 and the three current national titleholders.  I was able to watch the livestream and the show was pretty good.  I was slightly annoyed that the show started about 30 minutes later than expected, but what can you do!  Here are some photos I was able to snap, sorry for the quality!  Also some common trends: lace, daring cuts and pastel pops of color!

xoxo,

A

NYFW Updates

So upon walking around SoHo today, I've decided some people have no idea how to dress themselves. I constantly see people wearing the strangest outfits and wondered if people even looked in the mirror before they stepped out the door.  Now don't get me wrong, I'm perfectly okay with people who dress differently and unexpected, but sometimes it's too much.  Because of this, I've decided I'm going to do a weekly installment called "What the F*** Are You Wearing?"  I hope you tune in, because I feel like it's going to be a funny blog to read and I'll take the outfits that are no's and make them into yes's.

On another note, fashion week is in full swing and I hung around outside of the Lincoln Center yesterday.  There were a lot of high fashion people milling around and I did have two celebrity sightings. Also I have been watching the shows and I feel like pastel and whites are here to stay for spring.  Most of the materials that graced the runway where light and airy, but there were some darker, leather pieces mixed into the collections as well.  Stay tuned for more updates as the week continues!

xoxo,
A

New York Fashion Week '14

I'm going to start this blog off by saying sorry for my absence.  My computer was having some major issues, plus I was on a road trip for work.  But I'm back now, and I had to buy a new computer.  I think it was time though.  

So NYFW starts tomorrow and I am very excited to be here for my first fall fashion week!  I am excited to go to Lincoln center and look at all the exciting street fashion.  I will be sure to post a blog with that as well as reviews of the runway shows.  I might be able to get into a few shows, so if I do, don't you worry, there will be a blog about that as well.  I'm going to try to do at least one a day for fashion week, so I can keep you posted!!

What are some trends you think will be on the runway this season?  What designers are you most excited about?

Stay tuned this week for more!

xoxo,

A

Summertime Madness

In the height of summer, fashion seems to sometimes take a back seat in our lives, but I'm here to tell you, that doesn't have to happen.  Even though it might be a scorching 100 degrees outside, that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice all of your fashion needs.  Keep reading to see how I've paired top trending pieces of the summer for an old school, relaxed look.  Plus I've even added some night out and formal looks to take your summer fashion to the next level.

Introducing Swoob

When you hear the name Swoob what do you think of?

Well for me, I think of my friends activewear company.  So read below to learn a little more about them!

"Swoob had its beginnings on a climbing wall along the renown Wasatch Mountain Range in Utah.  Renown in the outdoor community for good reason, Utah is a mecca for hard-core outdoor enthusiast of all types. 

Throughout and in between climb sessions, bike rides, runs, hikes, and other adventures we noticed girls had one thing in common: they love to stow away things in their bras!  After making some inquiries and witnessing women use their sports bras to store anything from energy pouches to keys and phones we knew there was an opportunity.  On this note Swoob was born with a mission to support the active lifestyle of females.   

Swoob has since been scoring the globe for the best material and most skilled craftsman to make the best women’s active wear and clothing apparel.  We take pride in those we work with around the world, and they take pride in us.  Swoob is about spreading love, empowering women, experiencing life, and motivating women to share the goodness of this world.   

Be Strong Be SwoobFit!"

I've seen the clothing in person and trust me when I say, it's awesome! And it's going to give top activewear lines a run for their money! 

I've been involved with the company, helping them write blogs as well as styling their shoots and I hope to continue to do so in the future!

Right now they are launching their kickstarter and need YOUR help in getting to their goals.  Check out the link below for more information about the amazing company and become a SWOOB gal.

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1279377720/swoob-finally-a-sports-bra-with-pockets

A Little Bit of Lingerie

Today I had the pleasure of styling a lingerie photo shoot for my dear friend Dani.  We wanted simple, just rolled out of bed looks and I think we achieved them.  I also did her hair and makeup.  Here are a couple of behind the scene photos.  Stay tuned for the actual prints!

Oscars fashion

The Oscars took place last weekend and I've been crazy busy packing so I'm just getting to the write up now! Here is a breakdown of my thoughts about the celebrities fashion attire.

1. Jane Fonda:

This dress just screams elegant, but daring at the same time.  The v-neck with a long sleeve makes this dress striking and very flattering for Fonda's figure.  I personally love the pop of color because not many people can pull it off.  Another favorite detail of mine, is the diagonal lines that make her waist look tidy bitty!












2.Kerry Washington:


Miss Washington's dress features a strapless neckline with a completely beaded bodice.  The pop of color beadwork within the crystals add a nice detail to the dress.  The train also makes the dress elegant and very red carpet worthy.

3. Jennifer Lawrence:

When you think of the red carpet, you don't necessarily think of a drop waisted ball-gown dress, but Jennifer pulled it off perfectly.  Despite the trip up onto the stage, Lawrence remained regal and composed in this strapless gown.  The dress features pillowing fabric and a ever extensive train.

4. Hallie Berry:

Long sleeves are in, and here to stay!  Hallie Berry pulled off this fully beaded number features a long sleeve illusion sleeve.  A tiny crystal belt lines her waist, showing off her smallest part.  This design works perfectly with her short hair as well.

5. Nicole Kidman:

Sequin gowns was yet another trend on the red carpet this season and Nicole Kidman was spot on with her gown.  The dress features an ombre effect of black and gold sequin detailing, and a tank like neckline.  The fit of the dress is perfect for her body, and shows her off in all the right places.















And that wraps up my Oscar rundown... Stay tuned for more!

xoxo A

Fashion Week '13

My friend Dani and I attended fashion week in New York City this past week and it was a blast!  It was very exciting to see all of the latest trends emerge onto the streets on the city.  I will post a detailed blog about the fashion shows over the next week. Stay tuned for those. Below is a photo shoot we did with someone who approached my lovely model friend in front of the Lincoln Center, who by the way is now a signed NYC model, with AGENCY Model Management.  Check out a proof of the shoot below!

Photographer: Traci B

Hair and makeup: Me

Styling: Me

Let's talk about leather...

People always want to stay up to date with this season's latest trends and I believe that leather is a big one.  We first saw leather creep back into people's wardrobe's last fall and it seems as though leather is here to stay.

I know a lot of my fall/winter outfits consist of at least one piece of leather, and it's usually my shoes or jacket.  I think I'm known for having a few too many combat boots and leather jackets.  What can I say, they are my weakness!

Now some people aren't sure how to pull this trend off, well I've put together a very simple outfit that is easy to wear and easy to find!  You want to start with your basics...
1. The Bottom: In this particular outfit I'm using three pieces of leather.  You could just wear a dark wash skinny jean instead, but go all out!  When looking for the perfect pair of leather pants, make sure they aren't too tight, because comfort in this look is key.  Also make sure they fit properly around the hips.  We don't want any unnecessary skin showing.  Another key ingredient for your bottom is knowning what pants look good on you.  Just because skinny jeans are in, doesn't mean you have to or should wear them.  Bring a friend and get a second opinion.

2. The Top:  With this look we are going for grungy chic, so I paired the leather bottom with a loose oversized sweater. Now personally, my wardrobe doesn't consist of a lot of color.  I'm a neutral person, so I love the color of this Chic Nova sweater. In my next post I'll talk about bringing in a pop of color into your outfit!

3. The Shoe: Lace-up, combat style boots rule my closet.  I'm pretty sure I own a heel and flat version of every neutral color.  I love these boots by Go Jane because they are an in between height for a boot.  This color is also perfect because it's in the same family as the sweater.

4. The Accessories:  No outfit is complete without a couple of accessories.  This outfit screams arm party, so grab a bunch of golden bracelets and let your arm speak for itself.  A hat is optional for this look, but this cool Rag & Bone felt hat adds just a hint of girly to the look.  The hat also comes in burgundy which is a huge color for fall.  

And last but not least, grab your favorite leather jacket and the look is complete.  Steer clear of over done leather for this look.  You want to keep it simple.  Also for the jacket make sure its fitted and has a drop of a tailored angular feel to it.

Your outfit is now complete.  I hope you enjoyed my first blog post.  Stay tuned for more on all things fashion, style and beauty.

xoxo, A

Let's talk about burgundy...

Another big fall/winter trend this season is hues of burgundy, wine, and plum.  I love this trend and glad it's around.  I've always been attracted to dark colors.  I'm not a huge bright color person.  This shade is also perfect for pairing with black which I love.

In this collage I threw together a burgundy blouse with a leather skater skirt.  Those are also all the rage this season.  Also my personally favorite shoe: Jeffery Campbell Litas.  These ones have the gold studs on them which adds even more edgy glam to the outfit.

I'm also a sucker for collar necklaces, especially gold ones so I had to throw that in here as well.  

You can rock this season's trend in a pair of skinny jeans, a blouse, your nails, makeup or pretty much anything.  When deciding to go with this trend, make sure you stick to that color pallet and don't go too crazy.