After much consideration Brio needed a name change. Though I love the word…Brio..just say it out loud for a moment. It sounds chic and sexy. It’s meaning is also lovely, “fast with brilliance and fire.” The word will always have a spcecial place in my heart, but it is time to move on. I believe Chic Stimulation is what I am after. This name fits the theme of my blog a lot more. With Chic Stimulation beauty and fashion are more accessible. “Quick Tips with Radiant Flare.”
Monthly Archives: February 2012
Tim Gunn VS. My Dad
When it comes to fashion this is my dad, please go to the 43 second mark in the Larry Crowne Trailer and then to the minute 30 mark. My father is a loveable, handsome man whose fashion sense starts and ends with Lands End (which is a great brand). He knows that I love fashion so he tries to take an interest (he’s so supportive of my brother and I). With help from my mom he dresses rather nicely most of the time, leaving behind “the 90’s dad jeans”. Sorry Dad, I know we tease you a lot. This leads me to a very funny story.
During a commercial break while watching the Academy Awards I went upstairs to make a cup of tea. While there my mom asked, “What do you think of the red carpet this year?” As women do, we gushed over the dresses, hair, jewelry, and colors. I guess my dad felt left out because he chimed in, “Tina Fey looked frumpy.” He must have been trying to take an interest in my fashion passion, but I had to defend Tina.
“Dad”, I said, “she may not be a stereotypical Hollywood beauty, but she is adorable and funny. The up do helped to show off her lovely face and the dress was very flattering to her body.” I finished my argument with, “Tim Gunn thought she was fabulous.”
Please view the video below to see how my father knows and loves Tim Gunn:
My Father quotes this commercial all the time saying, “look what Anandra did” and “major wow factor”. My dad is a very funny guy and for some reason this made him a Tim Gunn fan. Now that he knows Tim Gunn likes her look he says, “I still don’t like her hair.” Silly Daddy…
Tina Fey was wearing custom Carolina Herrera Dress, Bulgari Jewels, Stuart Weitzman Shoes, and a Roger Viver Purse. It is so refreshing that a pretty woman can be funny and smart. Her writing is always so clever and my father and I are huge fans. She is on my list of inspirational women.
In closing, I want to thank my wonderful dad for being a good sport. I love you. Remember, most men don’t understand fashion unless they are Tim Gunn.
Oscar Gold
Was it Halloween at the Oscar’s on Sunday? Did some celebs miss the memo that they were suppose to dress up like their favorite statue?
Apparently, for many celebrities it seemed to be the “cool” thing to match that golden statue that so many were after. The metallic Gold look was a hit and miss for three red carpet stars. Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but did these celebs think it would help them or a friend take home the Oscar? This red carpet trend should have been done a bit more subtly.
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Stacey Keibler, George Clooney’s Better half didn’t shine as bright as that little Statue wearing Marcheasa. Shaun Robinson looked lovely in her Oscar inspired dress and I guess this look worked for the beloved Meryl Streep because she took home the Best Actress Award.
I personally love gold in accent pieces like these. It is the perfect simple statement to any look. I feel these celebs would have pulled off the gold trend if they had kept it modest.
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Forever 21: Glittery Bangels, $5.80, Glistening Dome Ring ,$5.80, Chain Fringe Necklace, $7.80.
I love the idea of gold, sparkle shoes to liven up any outfit. Wear it with a simple, elegant dress or skinny jeans for that night out. Also, sparkly sequins were another red carpet trend this year. Nadine Glitter Heel, $39.50, Delia*s.
Use gold to dress up a sweater or that basic little black dress. It’s amazing what a gold statement piece can do for an outfit. I feel this Oscar trend was just a bit too much of that precious metal. If you want to do gold in a more casual setting check out my post on how to brighten your winter wardrobe.
The Red Carpet is all about celebrities trying to look their best and out do each other. They want to look glamorous while being on the cutting edge of fashion. This trend just didn’t do it for me. How do you feel about these actresses being draped in gold?
No Wig Here
Being yourself is true beauty.
Fashion is all about self-expression, being who you are and letting that shine. At last night’s Academy Awards Viola Davis did just that. Taking off the wig makes it pretty obvious the actress is proud of who she is making her the perfect role model for all young women. What’s even better her husband is proud of her and finds her attractive no matter what, “If you want to wear it for your career, that’s fine, but in your life wear your hair. Step into who you are.” – Julius Tennon.
Now for the most important question asked that night, “Who are you wearing?” Ms. Davis was rocking an emerald green Vera Wang strapless gown. Shorter hair or an up-do make for the perfect hair style for a strapless dress because it accentuates the collar bone which I find to be one of the sexiest parts of the human body. Viola Davis’s natural hair just gives this dress a little something extra and the earrings really helped to compliment that. I normally prefer her in a lighter shade because it always looks striking next to her flawless, deep chocolate skin. For an example Google her Golden Globes look from this year or check out my blog post about it. However, this Vera Wang dress last night showed off her toned arms and fantastic body. The beading added a subtle embellishment; just the right amount of sparkle. I also loved the fabric change at the bottom of the dress that allowed it to elegantly flow across the red carpet. Someone hit a homerun! Viola may not have won for Best Actress in The Help, but she won two Brio Awards last night:
- Best Dressed
- Empowering Role Model
I think Viola Davis will be a trend setter for this spring/summer. Women everywhere should embrace what makes them special and unique. Let’s all go for a natural look in the warmer months. If you love who you are others will too. In the words of Viola’s Husband mentioned above, “Step in to who you are.” Those my fashionistas are words to live by.
How do you feel about Viola Davis’s bold move?
Oscar Week
This week will be dedicated to my favorites from the Oscar’s Red Carpet!
Social_Shan is busy taking notes: Check back Tomorrow
Let’s Freshen Up that Wardrobe
Freshen Up!
A new season is pretty much upon us and we all want / “need” the new trends out there, but well; there’s always a but. I have some really important tips that could help you freshen up your spring and summer wardrobe without really breaking the bank.
Begin, by going through your closet. Try absolutely everything on from your spring and summer wardrobe and make an area in your room for two piles. There is a donate pile and a keep pile. You should always clean out your closet at least two times a year in the fall and spring to make room for the new things that you want. Another good clean out tip is if you havent worn it or even looked at it in 6 months it should probably go. The last step of the clean out is to memorize the things you will be keeping. You don’t want to buy similar pieces, but you do want to buy pieces that will go with and compliment your already existing wardrobe.
Now that you know your wardrobe let’s go over the practical ways to buy this years trends. Real Simple Magazine came up with a list of Spring/ Summer Essentials. These are basic items that will remain in style such as a cardigan and cotton dress. I’m sure most of us have these pieces already, but for the ones you don’t have incorporate a 2012 trend into on of these items. (Click here for Real Simple List)
Now that you’ve seen the list here are the easiest trends to use with these essentials:
- Florals
- Stripes
- White
- Bold, Bright, or Pastel Color
- Lace
For some examples to help you out I went shopping this weekend with my friend Liz to help freshen up my wardrobe. Here are my purchases:
- Bright Pink Blazer
- Pastel V-Neck Tees
- Bright Yellow Floral Dress
- Flowy Gray Top
- Yellow, Flowy, Lace Striped Tank
Of course, we want to have fun with our wardrobes as well so buy that funky piece you had your eye on. Another trend for the warmer months are Pop Accessories. For this trend I bought a bright blue belt with a bow, cheetah print, flat leather flip-flops, and blue, yellow, pink thin headbands. All of these items cost a little less than $120.
(All items from either Forever 21 or Old Navy)
With my new purchases and existing wardrobe I can make so many different looks. Check back in the coming weeks as I dedicate a full week of posts on how many looks you can get from one simple item. From blazers to T-shirts I your spring/summer wardrobe set on a budget.
A Running Rainbow
Swimwear Motivation 3:
One trend seen on the runway last July was color; big, bold, solid color. So pick a color and make sure it will stand out. These suits can be any style, shape, or size so pick one that makes you feel sexy and comfortable. Colors to look for: fuchsia, tangerine, coral, pale citrus green, aqua, and royal blue.
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Designers: Zingara, Nicolita, Luli Fama, Cia Maritima, Beach Bunny, Norma Kamali
Speaking of being sexy and comfortable it’s time for our bikini ready tip of the week. If you’re like me exercising isn’t your thing especially when it comes to running. That’s why an article in Real Simple Magazine recently caught my attention.
John Honerkamp, head of training for the New York Roadrunner’s Club came up with the perfect running routine for beginners. It’s called the walk-run regimen and I am going to break it down for you. The whole point of this routine is to start slow, let your body adjust, and build up endurance over time. You will need a stop watch for this workout. Remember to stretch before doing any physical activity. A great way to keep yourself motivated would be to create an upbeat running playlist on your iPod.
Step 1: This is about getting the swing of things. Work on your runners form and run for 30 seconds and then walk for another 30.
Step 2: It’s important to remember your breathing so work on in your nose and out your mouth while running for 1 minute and walking for another minute. A tip from Honerkamp: Count while you breath, in for 2 seconds and out for 2 seconds.
Step 3: 3 minutes for step 3. Run for a minute and a ½ and walk for a minute and a ½.
Step 4: You’re really moving up in the running world. For this step run for 2 minutes and walk for 2 minutes. Honerkamp says, if it gets tough to pick a focal point and run to it. It’s like achieving a mini goal and will help to keep you going.
Step 5: Back to 3 minutes. Run for a minute and a ½ and then walk for a minute and a ½. Try to pick up the pace in this step.
Step 6: Last step, run for a minute and walk for a minute. Finish the run strong and gradually transition into a slow walk. While talking try to loosen up your body by moving your head, neck, and shoulders.
When you finish the workout be sure to stretch. Keep working on this 6 step workout and soon enough you will be able to run 15 minutes straight without stopping. I am very excited to give this a go once it gets a little nicer outside. Thank you Mr. Honercamp for these tips on how to become a runner. I have always wanted to be one. I have one last bit of motivation for all of you.
Every day and every activity is an excuse for fashion, right? Well if you become a runner than you’re going to need some workout clothes. Whenever I go into Dicks Sporting Goods (where the examples are from) I am instantly attracted to the brightly colored running stuff. I think that’s the real reason I want to be a runner.
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Nike Women’s Resolve This Dri-FIT Cotton Tee, $28.00
Soffee Women’s Embossed Tiger Slick Short, $17.99
Reebox Women’s Realflex Optimal Running Shoe, $94.99
So slap on those colorful running shoes so you can fit into one of those colorful swim suits.
A Fairy Tale Moment
Last weekend Elizabeth Smart got married in Hawaii. Unhappy with wedding dress selections in Utah the 24 year old went to Kleinfeld’s (Say Yes to the Dress) in one of the most fashionable cities in the world, NYC. Smart picked an Alita Graham with lace sleeves and a sweetheart neckline. You can see the beautiful and smiling Smart on the cover of People Magazine. Smart deserved such a lovely dress and happy ending after all she had been through.
Now, not all of us can afford a dream trip to Kleinfeld’s, but with a little help from Brio you too can get a similar look for your special day. Let’s get Smart’s appearance from the most accessible bridal store in the country, David’s Bridal.
Three looks for less, but remeber anyway you slice it wedding dresses aren’t that cheap.
(Sorry the image is so small-click to enlarge)
Dress 1 is very Princess Kate if you ask me (which was a spectacular dress). This is a Long Sleeved Satin and Lace Ball gown. ($849)
Dress 2 is a Satin Faced Organza Gown with Illusion Piece. ($1,348)
Dress 3 is a Cap Sleeved Lace over Satin Gown with Illusion Back. ($724)
I leave you with a picture that I believe is a true Cinderella shot of this incredible survivor. I wish you luck and happiness in your marriage Elizabeth Smart.
Gap Kids: Frugal, Furstenberg, Forward
DVF for Gap Kids, yes please!
March 15th! This will forever be a historical day for the Gap Inc. Why, you ask; because, Diane von Furstenberg has created designs for both Gap Kids and the Baby Gap to be released on that date. We all know how I feel about this! Making Fashion affordable and accessible is my mission in life. Thanks to my favorite super store Target, retailers everywhere are trying to jump on the “Missoni-Wu” bandwagon. Even though Gap Kids is doing better than The Gap I feel this will be a positive move for the struggling retailer.
The collection is full of fun patterns and bright, bold colors. When asked about the collection Furstenberg said, “I wanted to go to the core of what the brand is…and make fun prints and things that little girls will like.”
Well Diane little girls aren’t the only ones taking notice. This big girl among others really like what they see. Gaps previous designer collaboration with Stella McCartney had “fun sized” fashionistas like me buying up all the 14, 16, XL, and XXL’s. I have a feeling DVF for Gap Kids will be no different. This line includes tops, dresses, bottoms, shoes, and accessories all with that Furstenberg flare. Oh and there’s even swimware. There are going to be some well-dressed little girls out there. I can already picture my cousins’ daughters (Jen and Shannon) in these adorable outfits. And, my cousin Aislinn would look awesome in the dress below. I want to go shopping with them!
Hey, grown up Gap! Yeah, I’m talking to you. Don’t you think you should add a designer collaboration next season? It may save you. You’re an American staple, I would hate to see you go. Plus, us big girls deserve some affordable designer clothes. You have been successful in the past with Pierre Hardy shoes, just saying. Okay, back to the topic at hand.
Normal DVF clothes are very expensive. A wrap dress would cost you around $350, but coming from the Gap it’s going to be around $68. That’s an incredible deal. Let’s start teaching little girls how to be fashionistas early on or squeeze into one of these designer looks yourself. DVF for Gap kid is “Frugally Fabulous”.
Runway for the Average Joe part 5
Shorts:
Runway: James Long Spring 2012
It is time for the 5th and final Spring 2012 Menswear Trend. I saved this one for last because it happens to be my boyfriend’s favorite clothing item. The shorts trend has been around forever. It’s hot in the summer so we wear them. However, this time around shorts are sleeker and a bit more tailored making them a very versatile piece of clothing this spring and summer. When it comes to shorts I am not talking about the baggy cargo shorts with too many pockets ( I will show you an appropriate example a little later) or the over-sized ghetto fabulous jean shorts.
The rules for these shorts are simple:
- Look for something that fits well.
- The shorts should come just above the knee or just hit the knee. Nothing that comes down to your ankles please!
- Think Color. Now my examples are pretty basic in color, but you can do reds or greens if you want to be bold.
- Pair these shorts with a T-shirt, button down shirt, sweater, or a blazer.
Average Joe: Shorts are from Express or American Eagle
American Eagle, AE Longer Length Belted Flat Iron Shorts, $39.50
Express, Classic Fit Belted Flat Iron Shorts, Color: Heron, $59.90
American Eagle, AE Classic Length Plaid Shorts, Color: Cream, $39.50
Express, Slim Fit Belted Dress Tilo Shorts, Color: Licorice
The sleek, fitted cargo: Express, Classic Fit Cargo Short, $59.90
Well that wraps it up! I hope you guys learned a valuable lesson about fashion. It isn’t as scary as you thought, right? Check back in the summer for a new Runway for the Average Joe featuring Fall/winter 2012 trends.
Witte Wardrobe 