THE TRENCH

Do I really have to elaborate? No matter if you chose to don a classic Burberry trench (which is an investment piece for budget ballers like me) or a wallet saver version, the mercury on the chic-o-meter will soar despite the low outdoor temps.

Tip: Continue your classic look with straight or boot cut jeans and a sleek pair of booties.

TRENDY TOMBOY

Ignite chilly fall days with a subtle but smokin’ tomboy look.  Vintage 90s grunge looks are fitting for grey days as they provide fashion forward warmth and comfort.

Pair a roomy sweat shirt with slightly distressed denim and flat combat inspired boots. Create an autumn inferno if you dare; take that same sweat shirt pair it with a mini and boots that go up-to-there à la Rihanna.

Image fromhttp://www.upscalehype.com

Tip: Keep the shapes and shades of your garments simple and on the darker end of the color spectrum to avoid a Halloween costume vibe. And don’t be afraid to reintroduce your Jordans from yesteryear if they are still in good condition.

SENSATIONAL SCARVES

Scarves in vibrant hues boost your mood and restore summertime cheer. Create a look reminiscent of beach days by repurposing your sarong as an oversized neck scarf. When shopping for new scarves, go for varieties boasting pretty prints and touchable textures.

Tip: Don’t forget your umbrella is a part of your overall look! Instead of the typical tiny size, go for a striking candy color, animal print or whimsical pattern.

How do you glamorize gloomy days?

]]> https://readysetdresss.wordpress.com/2012/10/21/requested-gloomy-day-glam/feed/ 0 readysetdresss Gloomy Day Glam Rihanna-Tom-Ford-boots-Alexander-Wang-skirt-Trapstar-sweater-UpscaleHype-i Gloomy Day Glam2 https://readysetdresss.wordpress.com/2012/10/01/so-long-summer-my-favorite-shoestring-budget-summer-looks/ https://readysetdresss.wordpress.com/2012/10/01/so-long-summer-my-favorite-shoestring-budget-summer-looks/#comments Mon, 01 Oct 2012 17:33:18 +0000 Ready Set Dresss! http://readysetdresss.wordpress.com/?p=589 ]]> This summer proved to be a whirlwind of change in my personal life which left me with minimal time to trend watch, shop and salivate over the glossies. I was juggling a demanding work schedule, beginning a journey towards a healthy lifestyle and summer is not summer without a series of shenanigans with friends and family! I did however find time to take a few quick snap shots of my favorite looks along the way!

I wore this colorful and comfy hi-lo dress to worship service and lunch with my aunts.

Glasses & Necklace// Forever XXI

Earrings// Borrowed

Dress// H&M

Sandals//Target

I chose to mix patterns in the same color family for a dinner party.

Tank & Skirt// Forever XXI

Peep Toe Sling Backs// Gabriel Brothers

Enjoying live music in downtown Cincinnati’s Fountain Square. I let my cobalt jeans take center stage by pairing them with neutral solids.

Sunglasses// Forever 21

Hi-lo T-shirt// Target

Cobalt Blue Jeans// Dots (Yes! Really!)

Sandals// Forever XXI

What were the style standouts of your summer?

 Dress Dresss to; impress, stay warm or be comfortable?

I like to satisfy all three factors. My #1 priority is to arrive at my final destination without having turned into a chocolate pop at 40,000 feet. My last flight took me from Dayton to a layover in Atlanta with my final arrival being Montego Bay, Jamaica followed by a short taxi ride to Negril. That’s two frigid flights through Midwest morning chill, steamy southern spring, tropical temps and mid-day showers all in the span of 6 hours! Layers are the name of the game.

Here’s my head to toe fly girl look!

I layered a cream light weight sweater over a denim button down shirt. I chose dark denim jeans to channel my style icon Solange.

Headwrap- gifted/ Earrings- Kilimanjaro African Heritage/ Sunglasses- Forever XXI/ Cream Sweater & Denim Shirt- Target/ Jeans- J. Crew/ Bag- Dooney & Bourke/ Booties- Bakers/

I started with a chic head wrap for style and warmth. Didn’t your mama tell you heat escapes from your head? Plus I wanted to cover my chunky two strand twist that I styled for perfect beach curls upon arrival.

It’s a good idea to accessorize with non-metal jewelry pieces for quick navigation of security. These wooden cross earrings are one of my favorite pairs for travel because they don’t set off the metal detectors!

My booties are easy to slip in and out of during security check points. The Dooney & Bourke duffle is my go to travel bag as it can hold all my carry-on items and laptop with room to spare. My roomy bag also accommodates a pair of flat gold sandals to change into upon landing in Jamaica.

Here are some quick tips for your next flight.

#1 While you may plan to spend a few hours getting your beauty rest on the flight do not wear your pajamas!

#2 Wear appropriate clothing for every leg of your trip. While your sassy strapless maxi might be a great choice once you land you will surely freeze before the inflight service begins!

#3 You do not want to be the person holding up the security line because you just had to wear every accessory you saw on the last season of Basketball Wives! Use this opportunity to try out friendship bracelets or get a jump on your world walker style with stone or wooden pieces.

Summer travel season is underway. What are you wearing for your next flight?

Ready? Set! Dresss!

READY SET DRESSS IS ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER

As one of the few ladies in film production, I’ve gotten used to being one of the guys. That’s why it breaks my heart when guy friends of mine don’t understand how their lack of style affects their dating game.

Yes, it is shallow and sad to admit that the way a guy dresses has a huge impact on our opinion of him, but it’s a truth universally acknowledged. That’s why I’ve compiled my four biggest fashion no-no’s for all of our favorite men, because let’s face it, they would be lost without us.

[via shopperbase]

1. Plaid Shorts, Cargo Shorts, or Any Combination of the Two

I’m not sure what it is about plaid shorts that bother me so much, especially seeing as I’m a sucker for a nice beard and a plaid, flannel shirt, but something about the pattern on the lower half of the body just doesn’t sit right with me. I think it’s because it reminds me of my middle school days and all of those pre-teen loves that some how didn’t work out.

The same goes for cargo shorts. If I see a guy in either it’s just an automatic NO THANK YOU because this is not 2002, you are not a cast member of Veronica Mars, and unless you are a rugged explorer about to set sail for safari, you do not need that many pockets.

[via fakeoakleys]

2. Sporty Sunglasses

Before a guy puts on a pair of these he needs to ask himself these questions.

1. Am I Lance Armstrong?

2. Am I about to go snowboarding and or surfing?

3. Do I want to look like a tool?

If the answer to any of these questions is NO, then stay away from the super sporty aerodynamic shades and stick to classics like wayfarers and aviators, for everyone’s sake.

[via woot!]

3. “Funny” Graphic Tees

Yes, okay some the shirts from the website woot! are cool, but nothing is a bigger turnoff than a guy wearing an ironic t-shirt, especially one that is neither original or funny.

Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing hotter than a guy rocking his favorite band’s tee (as long as it’s not Creed or Dave Matthews), but a guy’s sense of humor should be the only funny thing about him.

[via discount bedroom furniture]

4. Black Shirt + Neon Tie Combos

I was on the speech team in high school so I know all about guys and terrible dress shirt+tie combos, and I’m here to say that they just need to stay away from black dress shirts, especially with solid neon ties.

Yes, it’s true, a guy whose confident enough to sport a pink tie obviously has something going for him, but there’s a difference between pink and fuchsia.

Ladies, let us know what you think! Can you stand a guy in plaid shorts or do you have other fashion feux pas that drive you crazy?

Yes, I chose bread over bikinis.

I find that I am especially attracted to two trends in swimwear; the flirty 50’s style one pieces and come-hither cut out swimsuits.

50’s style suits are perfect for enhancing curvy, voluptuous shapes. With styles boasting strategic ruching and cinched waists, you can strut with pin-up poise! Halter varieties draw the eye away from tummy troubles. This same attribute also highlights the décolletage and provide increased support for the girls.  And for those who would rather die than show that thigh, those flirty retro swimskirts can hide a multitude of cellulite.

Cut outs can seem racy and revealing but can actually be very flattering depending on their placement. Case in point, my favorite swim suit purchased from H&M last summer! The contoured side cut outs create the illusion of a smaller waist. The slightly high cut creates a lengthier leg. And the flash of unexpected skin is tempered by the otherwise modest cut of the swimsuit.

My choosing bread over bikinis has not staggered my beach style.

I for one will not be omitting the bun from my grilled burger on Memorial Day.

 I assert that the one piece can be modern, attractive, and youthful without being childish. What’s your 411 on the one piece trends? Are they a life-saver or a ship-sinker?

LIKE READY SET DRESSS ON FACEBOOK

FOLLOW @READYSETDRESSS ON TWITTER

Edited by Cheryl Y. Hunt

BREAD OVER BIKINIS! My Perfect One Piece

Individuality in dress dresss is a must! No one wants to be a cookie cutter image of the next few million consumers shopping out there. However, there have been many a fashion faux pas made in the name of individuality. A few style slip-ups stand out to me as they are painfully obvious in various settings. If you see elements of your own style consider this your wakeup call!

Body Con Dresses & Minis

Now, body con dresses and minis in themselves are really not the problem. They can be quite alluring. The problem is that they have the power to make an average sized wearer look like the Michelin Man. Ladies, tight is not always right, nor does it automatically read sexy and fashion forward. Ill-fitting clothing is never flattering don’t be afraid to go up a size. And do remember, spanx are accessible, affordable and your thighs best friend.

Leggings as Pants

Leggings are a lot of things. One thing they aren’t? PANTS! I repeat. Leggings are not pants. I believe for the sake and vitality of superior  styling they should all come with a warning label that reads; PROCEED WITH CAUTION, THIS PRODUCT MUST BE WORN WITH A TUNIC OR DRESS THAT COVERS YOUR LOVELY LADY LUMPS IN THEIR ENTIRETY.

Signature Looks

While a signature look often indicates you have found what best compliments your figure, it can also point to stunted style growth. It’s vital to the evolution and development of your personal style to experiment with classics and trends. Don’t go for broke snatching up every trend but keep an open mind. Your growing collection of boxy tops and skinnies is nothing less than amazing but be mindful, there is a whole wonderful world of fashion out there in which to indulge.

Men in [Sagging] Tights

Sagging is so 90s. And not in a, “The grunge look is coming back, hey I’ll give it a try.” kind of way. It’s outdated and sloppy. Sagging in itself is an atrocity and then to sagg skinny jeans?! Sirs, I kindly beseech you; forsake leggings, jeggings, tights and sagging! If you need a blast from the past watch re-runs of Martin.

Ed Hardy T-shirts

I have a burning question for all the folks wearing Ed Hardy shirts and shirts of similar styles. Where are you finding them? I thought they had been exiled to a land far, far away! Bedazzled shirts embellished with tattoo style art are best left to pop boy bands of the early 2000s. There are better ways to command attention than shimmering through the room like Edward from Twilight.

In the words of Oprah you know better now you must do better!

Ready, Set, Dresss!

LIKE READY SET DRESS ON FACEBOOK

FOLLOW READY SET DRESS ON TWITTER

Edited by Cheryl Y. Hunt

Allow me a moment to introduce my very first guest blogger! Please welcome Cristen to READY, SET DRESSS! Cristen is a dear friend who is also my cousin. She is an artist in the purest sense of the word. Her ability to work wonders in make-up, nail art and hair is an innate and remarkable gift. We’ll be seeing more of Cristen around READY, SET DRESSS! so welcome her with open arms!

- Ryan Kelley

Let the party begin right at the tips of your fingers.

•Keep it classic and professional with a sleek french mani.

•Step out of the box! Add just a little spice to your traditional mani.

•Achieve pretty picture perfect nails with nude colors and neutrals.

•Color your party spot to pop or sizzle! Vibrant spring colors make an awesome office friendly statement.

•Get wild! Animal prints are fun for nail art fanatics of any age and great for the weekend!

•You can also add a touch of flair with modest designs.

•Or simple switching just one nail color.

•May your nail party be endless and know that your options are unlimited. Nail polish and nail art don’t have the reputation they used to (i.e. when black was strictly goth, now it’s red carpet chic.) Be chic & sleek, pop or sizzle, get wild or keep it simple. Just don’t be a chip off the old block a chipped nail can sabotage an entire look.

With Love,

Cristen Sudberry

(@crrristen on pinterest & instagram)

Like READY SET DRESSS ON FACEBOOK

Follow READY SET DRESS ON TWITTER

Edited by Cheryl Y. Hunt

GUEST POST: @CRRRISTEN – ALL WORK, NO PLAY NAILS?

The first order of business is to drop that huge briefcase/laptop bag/tote/catch-all and opt for a sleek clutch. As gorgeous as your lap top bag might be, there is no room for it at happy hour! You and your bag could become public enemy #1 & #2 if it happens to whack someone’s Mai Tai.

Ring- Body Central

Clutch- BCBC Max Azria

(Tip: For a very on trend look carry a clutch in neon or animal print.)

Your work pumps are already unquestionably fly so leave them on!  The basic pump is a gorgeous back drop for a pair of heel condoms. That’s right, heel-condoms. Opt for dainty detail in lace, a bold bloom or flirty feathers. Clearly heel condoms have chameleon appeal that pleases personal style and fiscal fitness.

Images from http://www.theheelcondoms.com/

Your work jewelry will not shine at cocktail hour! Cocktail rings are increasingly popular and available in a variety of price points. YSL Arty Ring Collection is lust worthy while Forever XXI and H & M have affordable offerings. Exchange your standard studded earrings for a dangling, sparkling pair.

With these quick change tips you can arrive to happy hour fashionably early! Ready, Set, Re-Dresss!

Like READY SET DRESSS on Facebook and follow on Twitter!

 Edited by Cheryl Y. Hunt

 As we all know Target (say it with a French accent Tar-jey) continues to turn out lovely offerings, partnering with some of fashion’s biggest and most recognizable names. I’m still salivating over that blue floral print Jason Wu for Target pleated skirt! We can always count on Target for on trend and on budget selections! For example, my Easter dress this year! I love this frock because of its tiny tribal print and sweet ruffles. Interested to test the water of the mixed prints trend, I wore my favorite printed trench. I chose black suede platform sandals for their texture and comfort and an icy mint green bag for a bit of color.

Trench- H&M

 Dress-Target

 Belt-Vintage

 Shoes-Nine West

 Bag-Forever XXI

 Necklace -Aldo

 Sunglasses- Forever XXI

Follow // Like

Edited by Cheryl Y. Hunt

Pastels wash out your skin and make you look like the main subject in an episode of Intervention.

The feeling of lace against your skin is reminiscent of that bout with poison ivy at summer camp.

Understood.

Every season does not bring trends that flatter every figure. Don’t run for the hills to live as a style recluse until fall!

Live above the trends!

Oh yes, you read that correctly, your eyes do not deceive you. Assert your personal style over the current craze.

It’s a great advantage to have clothing readily available to play up your innate femininity. But let’s be honest, sometimes you pass the menswear department and long for the cool comfort of their relaxed jeans as opposed to your suffocating skinnies! Revive your boyfriend jeans! You’ll breeze around town radiating a So-Cal vibe when you pair a sun-bleached cropped t-shirt with boyfriend jeans. Get on your never-out-of-style soap box in an Oxford button down and the relaxed jeans. Accessorize with a great pair of wedge heels.

Images from shop.denimrefinery.com & denimology.com

(Tip: You don’t want to take the borrowed from the boys look too far! Make sure your oxford has very feminine details and construction.)

Got an old jumpsuit from the Dynasty days in the back of your mom’s closet? Grab that relic and cut out those puff sleeves. Leave the edges frayed or trim them in an ethnic fabric. Now just roll up the pant to your calf, add a big belt (or two), chunky bracelets a pair of colorful Espadrilles and viola timeless and gorgeous!

Images from bebe.com 

If the current color blocking blitz is not your cup of tea, it’s always chic to don a monochromatic ensemble. Wearing one color head to toe gives the illusion of added height. It can also knock of ten pounds off faster than you can say, ‘Sign me up for a month of Zumba classes!’

Trends are guidelines, suggestions – not rules! Feel free to take them or leave them. Treat trends are like weather, if you don’t like ‘em wait ‘em out. They will surely change. On the magnificent occasion when your personal style and fashion trends eclipse, revel in your obviously elevated style choices! Tell everyone you predicted the return of (insert your favorite article of clothing here)! Remember trends start somewhere. Don’t be afraid to let them start with YOU!

Ready Set Dresss is on Facebook and Twitter!

Edited by Cheryl Y. Hunt