Meet Arianna The Designer!

So as I mentioned before in my post Shopaholic Not So Anonymous, I have been working on a variety things in my personal life; one of which is designing. My mom, Assata Green, was a Chicago Fashion Designer in the late 80's to early 90's. As homage to her eloquent craft, I have decided to continue producing under her name!

I have been designing for some time for myself, but my first client was none other than ChiStyleMaven. She has a style obsession with Bow Tie's & Menswear so of course I created a piece for her!

To see the full story and how we went from her Pinterest boards to her latest neck piece, and to see us both in our Menswear, visit her latest post: My 2 Obsessions Have Collided Bow Ties:

I have created a variety of Collars and Bow Ties for myself, and honestly I think they're timeless pieces. You can wear it to a formal event, or in your every day wear, and it looks so classic. For more photo's of Ana's Bow Tie see below, and for your own custom creation, contact me!

Email me at AssataDesigns@gmail.com or follow me on Twitter - I would love to connect with you :)

Thanks for being my first customer, Ana!

I hope to create custom pieces for you all, as well. Don't be shy. ;)

-TLW

Midi's Are NOT Your Mom's Work Attire!

Remember how I told you that fashion was cyclical? Well time to kick it old school baby, because the Midi Dresses are a good shape for us Curvy Girls!

I was really inspired when I saw the exquisite Emily Blunt on 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show' yesterday. I know you're wondering why I reference this Show as of late -I set up my Tivo for Ellen because the guest spots have been amazing; but I digress. Emily was paling around with Ellen yesterday in a collared Midi Dress from Victoria Beckham's Fall 2012 line:

Emily Blunt in Victoria Beckham Fall 2012

Victoria Beckham RTW Fall 2012

Photo's courteous of The Ellen DeGeneres Show & Vogue.com

Ms. Blunt loves her dress- she says it's very "Posh" and you should too!

I love to shout about Curves on this site, but I also like to celebrate being who you are on whatever the occasion. I think the 'Midi' is the perfect opportunity to show your sexy curvy side appropriately, within the realms of Corporate America. The dress is a professional silhouette, and because of both the sultry and work appropriate length, you can pull this look off in the sometimes unfashionable hours of 9-5. Here's how:

• If you remember my first post, Ever Wonder Why You're A Fruit?, I highly recommended pencil skirts. I still do, and this is it in full dress form!
• High Heels - high as you can go for work. The only possible negative of this style is that it takes over your whole body. However, wearing heels will give a presence to your lower half and give you height to show off that slender chic look from the Midi Dress.
• Prints! The best part of this dress is that it's slimming, right? Well prints in one direction have the same, if not better effect. Experiment! It's you best opportunity to.

All of my suggestions are from Global Beauty & Fashion online retailer ASOS. They carry & create this style of dress with utter perfection. PLUS- there's a 70% of sale these days! Check it out:

Motel Midi Dress With Cut Out Racer Back In Aztec Print

Motel Zoe Midi Racer Dress Batik

Motel Midi Dress Cut Out Racer Back in Leopard Print

ASOS PETITE Exclusive Midi Dress In Squiggle Print

Motel Midi Zoe Dress in Abstract Pebble Print

Ganni Striped Midi Dress with Button Detail

ASOS PETITE Exclusive Midi Dress In Scarf Print

ASOS Midi Pencil Dress With Wrap Skirt

Tell me! What are some other ways to rock this 70's inspired trend?

-TLW

"What's So Big About A Size 6?"

Yesterday, Khloe Kardashian Odom was a guest on The Ellen Show to talk about her recent Cosmo cover, "Kimye", and her achievements in teaming up with Sears. Once more, I am not fueling the Kardashian train, but I do love their style (see Give Kredit Where Kredit Is Due) including her outfit below:

Khloe is wearing Kardashian Kollection 'Road to Nowhere' jacket (in stores May 2012), and Kardashian Kollection Button Front Blouse

Odom says she was honored, and surprised in the request to perform Cover Girl duties because she is ridiculed for her weight; she in fact says, "I think you sent this [offer] to the wrong sister". Nevertheless Khloe showed off her Curves because "she doesn't have to be a size 0 to be on the cover". Preach!

Watch the clip below to see Mrs. Odom's beaming self esteem and pride about her sexy:

I am 100% behind Khloe's brand of self respect. She is gorgeous with a great personality to match, but in a forever battle with the media when compared to her sisters. I also empathize with Khloe - because I'm her size! I'm a size 6/8 and 5'8" and there isn't one thing I would change about my physique. Three words Khlo': You - Go- Girl. For more information on Mrs. Odom, check out the new issue of Cosmopolitan Magazine on new stands now.

She's sexy and she knows it!

-TLW


Media Credit: The Ellen Show YouTube Channel, Kim Kardashian Official Website

*Just a side note: Thank you ALL for reading! It is a joy to write things that I hope bear some meaning with you and I am so grateful for your weekly visits! Curvy girls rock ;)

There's No Fear in Fashion - Just Ask Fran Fine!

So originally this was 2 posts but I combined it into one, since I saw both of my messages had the same theme :)

As I aim to empower us Women of all shapes, sizes, and colors by embracing the beauty in ourselves, I also want you readers to feel a sense of confidence; to be proud of what you wear and how you wear it. I know I typically do a lot of posts about clothes that aren't "normal wear" - but that is kind of my point. I think everyone should define the normal from their own wardrobes! There may be a dress code where you go, but I have never heard of a "Style Code" and believe me if there was one, I would be breaking it everyday. There is a time and place for every frock but that doesn't mean you can't express who you are from inside your closet. One woman I think embodies this ideology truly, is my ultimate style icon, Ms. Fran Fine:

Wasn't TV so much better back then?

I know some of you are thinking I'm crazy!! Some of you may think The Nanny was loud, brash, and her outfits were downright tacky, but that is exactly why I love her! Fran was fearless in every sense of the word. On top of the fact that in any given episode she had at least 5 wardrobe changes that alternated different jewelry, shoes, and hairpieces (NOTE: embrace faux hair - that's a blog post for later), Fran wore what she pleased to where she pleased and she wasn't sorry about it! That is a TRUE Fashionista. 

Work, Fran!

Fran welcomed the challenge of defying the "Style Quo" and from the looks of these images, she had a blast in doing so. That is why I am so eager to bring you all posts and outfit combinations that you may not normally see. It's fun to push the limits, but more importantly to push yourselves. There's so much untapped individuality in Fashion and there is definitely a difference in the way you & I wear this seasons pieces. 

The woman was not without her suits!

With all that said, I'm sure the question is 'how am I supposed to do this?' 'It's great to be fearless, but when?' And 'where am I ever going to wear a snack inspired dress like the one above?'  That's what I'm here for :)

Here are some rules in breaking the rules:

1. People will stare. I don't say this to be cocky, or encourage you to be, it's just the truth. If you push the limits it will both intrigue and confuse people. Either way you will gain some onlookers in your bravery of Couture. Accept it now! It's just a silent compliment ;)
2. Don't let your clothes be your leash. What I mean is this: it was almost 80 degrees in the past couple of weeks and I wore my fair share of leather. It doesn't matter the season at times, just have a little fun! Some of your clothes are too cute to be confined to one season! Remember those sleeveless turtlenecks?
3. Treat the Movie Theatre, Mall, Club, and Grocery Store the same. I don't encourage you to wear party dresses everywhere (but if you do I won't stop you!); but like I said before there isn't a dress code to the general public. You are expressing yourself in everything you wear and just because you wear heels to the Supermarket, does not mean you are out of place. The Nanny sure pulled it off!
4. You will still be in season! Fashion moves in cycles, and each year there is an expansion of a similar idea (i.e. first came Cargo pants, now Cargo skinnies). Wear the clothes you love to wear because chances are you will still mesh in the overall theme, but with your own twist!

No outfit suggestions today! I dare you all to delve into your own closets to find something FAB to stand out in. I know I did:

OOTD: H&M Floppy Hat, BB Dakota Fur Vest, Wilsons Leather Blazer , Vintage Pearls

Inspired by The Nanny!

-TLW!

Media Credit: Google Images, YouTube, FanPop.com, FashionForJojo.com

Shopaholic Not So Anonymous

Hello to my Treasured Readers!!

I know it has been quite a while since I've had a blog post, but I can assure you it is for good reason. Like I said in my last post, I have a few things in the pipeline and among them are some of my personal projects. I adore fashion and as a constant consumer and student of the craft, I decided to dive in myself!

It's Me!

More on that in a later post and be on the lookout for my dear friend, ChiStyleMaven to post about some of my work!

On the point of this post!

I can't stop shopping. Ever. It is an outstanding habit that has unfortunately overflowed my closet space (both of them). I especially can't stop around this time of year because it's what I like to call "Peek & Steal" time. That time between each season where you get a peek at all the new season items, colors, and trends to come, and all the last season items are at a steal of almost 80% off! I have fallen prey and I wanted to show you all why:


Steal #1 

Hooded Tinsel Dress

This was one of my first steals. Akira had an amazing sale this past weekend with 50% off of already reduced items. Never fear - the sale items have been further marked down including some fab Jefferey Campbell, For Love & Lemons, and LAMB gear. I love this dress because of the drama. While it is a bit mini, the hood gives it a different effect. You're immediately drawn to the top of your body with a silhouette that's rarely seen, and it sparkles! What more could you want? :)

Style Inspiration - Lindsay Lohan & Kim Kardashian in Brian Lichtenberg

*note the link takes you to a similar style dress.

Steal #2

BB Dakota The Garrett Vest in Chalk White

This was another item I got in a blowout sale from Karmaloop. Not only do I love the brand, but this versatile vest is currently under $20. I know Fur or puffy vests usually add bulk or volume, but here I think it's a necessary evil. Even in the picture the model is wearing a fitted piece and the vest accentuates her body, especially where it hits her hips. You can wear this sleeveless in warm weather, or as outerwear in the Winter! The best part? The vest is under $20.

Style Inspiration: Jennifer Lopez, Amerie & Audrina Patridge in Fur

Peek #1 & #2

Since the boom of Collar Necklaces, I really liked the idea of jewelry having more of a presence VS an accent in your outfit. A lot of designers have expanded the size and idea of the necklaces, bracelets, and even Avant Garde earrings. One trend that I will be a front runner in making sure it stays is the Body (Arm) Chains:

Love them!

This trend is derived from Belly Dancers & Gypsies as an accent piece to show form and movement in the body. This could easily move into the realm of statement necklaces/body Jewels and can be dressed up with Gala attire, or give identity to a simple Tank or Tee. So far, one of my favorite sellers I have found is on eBay at a great price!

Style Inspiration: Evelyn Lozada from Basketball Wives

I could go on all day with my latest shopping trip, but I think these are the main ideas from both the items and how to approach this season and its clearance racks with strategy!

Until next time - Shop 'til You Drop!

-TLW

Photo Credit: VH1, Google Images, eBay, Karmaloop.com, ShopAkira.com

I Didn't Forget You!

Hi All & Happy April!

I didn't forget about posting - just lots of exciting things going on including some design projects that hopefully some of you will love to own yourselves :)

Stay tuned! I'll be back this week!!

-TLW

Sunkissed Summer Glow In 3 Easy Steps!

Hello Readers! I apologize for the delay, but for those of you in the Chicagoland area you understand that I have been soaking up the sun! Including today's 84 degree day :) For those of my readers who are not in Chicago: fear not! Spring is coming your way and from this post you will be ahead of the game for your warm weather essentials.

One of the paramount things about my Spring/Summer's is I don't have to use foundation, period. Once I give my skin a nice healthy glow - I just dust on some bronzer and gloss (shadow for special occasions of course), and I'm out the door.  Who can resist this look?

Think of it as a makeup shortcut that's fairly simple. No color coordinating outfits with eye shadows or lipsticks & glosses, just letting your skin shine for days on end. How do you ask? I like to buy products using these rules of thumb:

• Step 1: Bronzer: Think of bronzer to your skin as highlighter is to a paper. It's to target those area's you need to see/remember right? Same with your face. Pick a bronzer with undertones of your skin and a shade or two lighter than your complexion. Or to go a fancier route, pick the bronzer the same color as your completion but boosted with glitter; both types of products give you the shine you are looking for. Also remember these key areas: 

• Steps 2&3: Lips-  You can either choose another neutral tone here, or for fun, jazz it up with bronzier products. I like to use Lip Liner that is on the opposite end of the color spectrum of the complexion. In my case, I use Peach. Then I blend it in with a bronze Lipstick or Lipgloss. The only trick here is, you can't use clear. Ever. You have to use some sort of color, otherwise your lips will disappear within with the general tone of your face and you unfortunately loose that Sunkissed look. Try colors a step above (lighter) than your complexion to complete the look.

Last but not least I cannot forget the golden rule in this look (pun intended): Skin Care! I know that technically you aren't wearing makeup you may not feel the need to wash your face. No, no, no. It's still makeup, taking host on your pores and you need to cleanse it every night. This look is bare minimum and foundations and powders typically hide the look of blemishes, but bronzer does not. So listen to Olay, and "Love the skin you're in" - Cleanse it! :)

Here are a few of my go to products:

Tarte Cheek Stain in Natural Beauty

I know "stain" typically has a negative connotation, but here it is the best thing about this product. It stays all day long, and the product gives your skin enough shine so you know it's there, but isn't heavy or cause build up the way some foundations do. You just apply to the apples of your cheeks, forehead, and chin and rub in.
It's featured in 8 different shades and you can buy online at Tarte Cosmetics or visit Sephora online & in store.

Mac Powder Blush in Format

This is the other kind of blush I use in a night time look. It's in a shade not to different from the color of powder I wear, but has the glimmer effect that I was telling you about above. Once bronzed by the sun, I get this Rose colored effect that works exceptionally when paired with a shimmer gloss and shadow. This product comes in 37 shades and is available anywhere MAC products are sold.

Rimmel London 1000 Kisses Stay On Lip Liner in Spice

Another product with the Color Stay factor. This product blends very easily with lip colors as well as glosses, doesn't smudge or budge, and is my Pop of Color for the Summer. It comes in 9 shades and sold at local drugstores.

MAC Lipstick in Cosmo

Like I said in my NYE Megapost: It's Never Too Late I am truly a MAC fan and I don't think that will ever change. Aside from their quality products, this lipstick is in essence the perfect shade. It's described as "Pink Coco" which is exactly my description for a warm weather lip color. It matches my skin, with light undertones you still look and feel like you are wearing a lip color. To check out the other shades of lip gloss, and other fabulous lip products check out  MAC  online :)

Last but not least:

This has recently become part of my daily skin regime and I could not be happier. It doubles as a face wash and a face mask that tingles below pores to cleanse your skin. It leaves me with a refreshed feeling and also helps combat oil - a foe you cannot escape in the tropical weather.

That's all for now! Enjoy the weather and be FAB!


-TLW

Photo Credit: MAC, Neutrogena.com, Rimmel London Online, Google Images, Tarte Cosmetics 

Beauty Spotlight: Kaela Humphries

Happy Weekend!! As we are all winding down our Fridays I thought it would be cool to share this tidbit of news. Recently, the gorgeous Kaela Humphries announced she would be the newest addition to Ford Models, Ford + Division.

Isn't she lovely?

I know most of you probably know Kaela for being related to ex-Mr. Kardashian, but what I really wanted to convey to my readers are the divine words the media has used to describe Kaela.
People Magazine reports:

"'[Ford is] excited at the prospect of bringing this beautiful, engaging young woman to markets worldwide,' the agency said in a release. “A true size 16-18, Kaela will be in a league of her own." - People: Kaela Humphries Signs To Ford

Wow! Aside from the accolades, to some fashion girls, Kaela has already made her mark walking during New York Fashion Week in the Richie Rich Show. Kaela was also a former Wilhelmina model, and appeared in the CW Show "Remodeled".
 
I say all this to remind you all that beauty knows no shape or size! While in the press it does identify that Kaela is a Plus Size Model, the emphasis is on her stunning beauty and  glamourizing talent. In fact one of her former colleagues had this to say:

"'Remodeled's Paul Fisher in said January, 'Kaela, they call her a plus-size model. I don't even know what this word plus means. She's normal. She's perfect. She's beautiful. They should call our models skinny people. The whole thing is wrong. It's backwards. It doesn't matter if she weighs 160, 180 -- it's completely irrelevant.'"-Zap2it.com

Preach! Industry standards: eat your heart out.

Photo Credit: People.com, Wetpaint.com


Happy Friday
-TLW!

Who Wears Short Shorts?

Hello Darling Divas! It's another week closer to Spring, and I for one could not be more excited! Continuing in my warm weather theme and at the request of one of my readers, @Edoubleyou, I have one of my sexiest trends for the heat: Jean Cutoffs & Plain Tee's!

You guys remember this 'fit right?

Beyonce's First Solo Single "Crazy In Love"- 2003

At the peak of the "Curvy Craze" Ms. Knowles rocked this outfit, and I think she looks gorgeous. I admire Avant-Garde fashion as much as the next girl, but at my core there is something so easy Royally Sexy about a plain shirt with shorts. It's the unofficial Summer uniform- comfy, casual, and the best part is you can accessorize any way you want!

My only problem is this: "Shorts" are such a relative term for each designer; I've learned this the hard way. While I love Miss Daisy Duke and her infamously daring Pedal Pushers, I don't want to look like her all Summer. I'm sure my Curvy girls agree! So how are you supposed to feel comfortable in this timeless trend? Follow these steps below for some Sharp Shorts :): 

• The good news for us Curvy girls is that Bermuda Shorts are making a swift comeback (Read Marie Claire: Top Spring Fashion Trends Straight from the Runway)!  In other words - you'll find Cutoffs long enough to favor your shape, and short enough to be brief ;)
• Make sure there's always an equal ratio of T-Shirt to Shorts. Over sized T-shirts are great, but their name says it all. You don't want to get swallowed in cotton, and you also don't want to rock Mom Jeans with a high waist. Try to always tuck some part of the shirt into the shorts so you can show off your body-Too big or too high clothes will segment you in unflattering ways.
• Accessories are key but with this trend, less is more. Remember this is Royal/Easy Sexy - you don't need a body full of jewels! A hot pair of bangles, studded earrings, funky tights, or an exceptional bag will do just fine :)
•  We've already established what kind of Jeans already fit us (Jeans For My Big Ol' Butt). and if you can't find Cutoffs - DIY! All you need is a good pair of scissors to cut the jeans at the desired length, and use the points of the blades to fray and fringe. Why not show off your take on the style!

My picks:

Gap + Threadless I Luv Uuuuu T

Silvergate That's a Wrap Sleeveless Top

Understar Shoulder Slit Shirt

Alternative Apparel Super Destroyed V-Neck T-Shirt

Blank Denim The At Risk Short

Vince Denim 5 Pocket Bermuda Shorts

Forever 21 Denim Bermuda Cutoffs

For the Daisy Duke in you:

Evil Twin The Hell Ride Shorts

Boston Forum Vintage Collection

I also come bearing deals this week :) For selected Tobi.com items you receive 30% off, Shorts Sale at Forever 21, and receive Free Shipping + 21% off by following The Karmaloop Street Team on Twitter!

Take a shot at Shorts ;)

-TLW