“Girls do not dress for boys. They dress for themselves, and of course, each other. If girls dressed for boys, they’d just walk around naked at all times.”
-Betsey Johnson
Inspiration
Dressing is an Art
“The joy of dressing is an art.”
-John Galliano
Oh the Places you will go
The past three months have been a whirlwind of excitement, change, adventure, and growth. I’ve been traveling non-stop with family and friends. I’ve had the chance to go to Florida, Vermont, New Hampshire, Vancouver, Rome, Paris, and New York. I have certainly caught the travel bug and can’t wait to explore more states, cities, and little nooks around Boston.
I started a new job at the end of January. It allowed me the opportunity to take on new challenges. After being there for a couple of months, I have to say, I’m much happier and more fulfilled than ever before. I was able to learn so much from my previous job that I have been able to apply and I’m thankful for having that opportunity. It’s always scary leaving the life you know, but it’s been satisfying to push my boundaries and build my professional skills.
I’m moving from my cute studio to a one bedroom. It’s the chance to redecorate (yay!) and try a new environment. It’s also forced me to do some serious spring cleaning and get rid of clothes, furniture, and books that I no longer need or use. I’m up to 20 Trader Joe’s shopping bags worth of stuff that I’m going to get rid of and I’m only half done! Help!
Overall, while I haven’t been as active on this blog as I would like, I’ve been taking advantage of opportunities to grow and expand my horizons. Now that things are starting to settle down, I’m excited to jump back into painting, writing, and blogging. I’ve miss you all and can’t wait to be back in the swing of things.
Tip of the Hat
There’s something about a hat that can liven up an outfit. It makes a simple top and bottom pop with a flash of color. Plus it’s practical all year round!
I love wearing hats in the winter but struggle for ideas in the spring. Luckily, as the stores transition from winter to spring there is a ton of great inspiration out there. I’ve keeping an eye out for ideas in which ones to add to my wardrobe. The winter sales also give you a chance to snag a fun winter one to wear for the next couple weeks.
Stretch It Out
If only Boston wasn’t under feet of snow and this exercise picture could be a reality in my life! Working out is particularly difficult to motivate myself to be consistent with in the winter. Once the chill of the Fall sets in my desire to run outside shrivels and I looks for indoor activities (not that it was a big appetite anyway).
Luckily, there are a lot of great ways to stay active through gyms and classes. I’ve grown to love classes as a way to stay engaged and push myself. When my own desire to sweat and kick butt starts to go, I can count on an instructor to make me drop lower or increase the gage of my bike. Plus all the other attendees in great shape in cute outfits is wonderful inspiration!
New Years Preparation
New Years is almost here! It’s the change to pop some bubbly and make resolutions for 2015. (Although, in my case they only last about a week.) One of my favorite ways to usher in the New Year is to go to a party to celebrate with some of my close friends or enjoy one of the big bashes at hotels, bars or resturants in Boston.
It’s a great excuse to buy a new dress and pick one that’s a bit trendier. One of my favorite parts of New Years Eve is looking back on old photos where I’m wearing a terrible trendy outfit that looks outdated by the next year. The height of fashion is frozen in that moment where you are wearing sequins, bows or giant shoulder pads! It’s fun to think you were the cat’s meow for the night.
If you are looking for a trendy outfit this year look no further than the leather trim trend. It’s hot, fun and sure to be one of the looks that memorializes this year. In 2014 leather patches, sleeves and jackets could be seen in every store. The fun number up top has a combination of flashy colors and leather patches. Perfectly trendy and guaranteed to be one of those dresses you love to look back on in a couple years and laugh.
Bold Blocking
Color blocking is one of the fastest ways to make you appear slimmer. The long strips of black in this dress help to nip in her waist and remove inches from a quick glance. The dark purple can help to conceal any bumps from the holiday food frenzy.
The different shapes made by the blocking can be flattering style for all body types. It’s hard to find a shape that flatters everyone but a simple body skimming sheath can do that. This dress would be perfect for all occasions from work to a holiday party.
Swooning for the Ballet
There is something magical about the words “I’m going to the Ballet.” They words seem to float in the air with sparkles on them, every little girls dream. It’s one of those special occasions to get dressed up and watch ballerina’s effortlessly twirl around the floor. I admit, when I was little I used to dream of being a ballerina. However this promptly ended after I ruined a recital in first grade, much to the laughter of my family.
This week, I attended the Swan Lake Ballet in Boston and was entranced. Everything from the costumes to the decor to the dancers was just perfect. I especially loved Odile’s black swan costume that has over 4,000 crystal jewels. It sparked beautifully and made her movements more dramatic. It was especially memorable when she completed 32 fouetté (whip) turns and the whole audience burst into applause.
I cannot recommend going to see Swan Lake at the Boston Opera House enough.
Patterned Coats
Patterned coats are a must in the holiday season. There’s nothing better than jazzing up a dreary day with a bright color and snazzy pattern. While the winter months leave you running for the simple black coat, try breaking out! (Although, I must admit, I do have a bunch of simple black coats.)
I’ve been making a conscious effort to break out of the sea of black and liven up my wardrobe. It adds a little holiday cheer to your everyday.
Anne Madeline Designs 