Lippie Love: I’m Ryan Kelley and I’m a lipstick lover.

As you may well know I’m kind of obsessed with lipstick. If I haven’t said it enough lip color is the perfect accessory. Your lippie makes your entire look live and breathe!

A basic nautical striped dress goes from sweet to sassy with a swipe of Kaior Harlem Knight.

Style Secret: For a statement lip color, a matte texture

trumps a glossy sheen. Less is more.

Glam up your girls night look with an electric pink shade. Milani offers their Violet Volt and NYC serves up a similar shade in #405 Blue Rose.

Style Secret: If the voltage on the electric pink is a bit too high, temper it with a dark pink or nude lip liner.

Experiment to find the perfect nude for your complexion. Ladies with deep skin tones like mine, give Milani’s Teddy Bare a shot. Nude looks boast major beauty in both matte and gloss.

Style secret: Going for a bold eye? Nude lips give balance.

Wanna be on trend for fall? Try dark, vampy lips. I’m going insane for Black Radiance’s #5023A and #5023B. A is reminiscent  of chocolate covered cherries while B is more like a dark chocolate.

My lippie love story is an ongoing affair. What are your favorite lipsticks? Are you trying new shades?

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REQUESTED! GLOOMY DAY GLAM

Just because the weather is gross doesn’t mean your look has to match! Be functional and fab at the same d@mn time! Opt for classic pieces like the trench, stay comfy in a trendy tomboy look or let your accessories take you back to the blue skies of summer. Dress Dresss to the nines rain or shine.

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.

Gloomy Day Glam by readysetdresss featuring satchel handbags

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.

Gloomy Day Glam2 by readysetdresss featuring galleria umbrellas

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?

FLY GIRL- STYLE ON THE FRIENDLY SKIES

You have a decision to make for your inflight wardrobe.

 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.

airport no nos by readysetdresss featuring spike hoop earrings

#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!

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GUEST POST BY SARAH OF WAYWARD GIRL: FOUR MEN’S FASHION FAUX PAS

Well hello all! I am pleased to have Sarah of  Wayward Girl guest blogging today! Sarah, show the gents (and those of us who love them) how to sidestep style slip ups!

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?

BREAD OVER BIKINIS! My Perfect One Piece

For lots of women (including me) shopping for swim wear is quite the daunting task. We all have physical imperfections we want to conceal, which is almost impossible in a bikini. Instead of speculating on how quickly Quick Trim trims, I have [proudly] abandoned the dreaded bikini and adopted the forgiving and flattering one piece.

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.

1 pieces by readysetdresss featuring a one piece bikini

Vintage style bikini
$223 – asos.com

Plein Sud one piece bikini
£269 – farfetch.com

Betsey Johnson 1 piece bathing suit
$178 – nordstrom.com

Seafolly 1 piece bathing suit
$155 – asos.com

Seafolly 1 piece bathing suit
$155 – asos.com

6 SHORE ROAD 1 piece bathing suit
$138 – revolveclothing.com

Robin Piccone one piece swimwear
$130 – nordstrom.com

La blanca
$129 – bloomingdales.com

Splendid one piece bikini
$97 – swimspot.com

Esther Williams vintage bathing suit
$90 – modcloth.com

Vintage swimwear
$86 – unique-vintage.com

Forever 21 halter bikini
$23 – forever21.com

Seafolly bandeau bathing suit
theorchidboutique.com

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?

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Edited by Cheryl Y. Hunt

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

 Hello Ladies and Gents,

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)

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Edited by Cheryl Y. Hunt

GO ‘HEAD… SWITCH THE STYLE UP

Planning to let loose after work? Why not gather up the girls for a few happy hours? No need to go all the way back home to change out of your business suit (or wrap dress, oxford and pencil skirt) to alter your look. Start off with shedding your blazer and loosening just a couple of buttons on your oxford! Accessories are agents of change. Take full advantage of the opportunities they afford to transform from posh professional to party perfection. Switch your style up by swapping your bag, shoes and jewelry.

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!

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 Edited by Cheryl Y. Hunt

Affordable Accessible Easter Ensemble

I firmly believe that style does not have to break the bank. Affordable fashion is available in droves. Saving money does not have to mean sacrificing style!

 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

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Edited by Cheryl Y. Hunt

A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS

@Crrristen captured a few of my favorite things on film.

 

Sunglasses & earrings – Forever XXI

Cream button down top- H&M

Cream belt- Besty Johnson

Gray Purse Alice + Joy (thrifted!)

Jeggings- Target

Orange Peep Toe Pumps- BCBG Girls

From Cool Blue Jean Jacket to Haute Denim Vest

My denim jacket is a national treasure! Like James Dean and Marilyn Monroe, its appeal never gets old. It also gets a lot of frequent flier miles because it’s spells cool in any country.  It’s a piece I love to wear over spring dresses or along with my neon jeans. I was elated when I ran across one on a vintage shopping adventure for less than $3!  This specific denim jacket was a stand out because of its collarless detail. Of course in my enthusiasm, I snatched it from the rack without following one of my own Seven Steps to Successful Vintage Shopping. (Cue the melancholy tune from violin quartet.)

 I didn’t try it on.

When I got home and tried the jacket on, I discovered the sleeves stopped two inches from my wrists.

I’ll just roll the sleeves.

Rolled sleeves worked for a few looks and gave my favorite colorful printed beaded bracelets the chance to take center stage.

Then EUREKA! After seeing my fellow blogger, Anuschka Rees in her denim vest I knew my jacket’s fate! My denim jacket was about to graduate to a new level of chic. Gone were those pesky sleeves, holding my jacket back from its full potential, to live it’s moment in the sun as- a denim vest!

You Can Wear a Denim Vest!

– Over a mini body con dress with flat t-strap sandals for a casual cute day look.

-With a midi or maxi skirt and a silk blouson tank for brunch with the girls.

-With a sporty tee and denim skinnies for an easy weekend look.

(Tip: When wearing denim twice, pick two very different shades in the fabric. Try a light shade on your vest and skinnies in a deep indigo shade)

-Over a chiffon asymmetrical dress to mix tough and tender for a flirty date night look.

Here’s how I wore my denim vest for a day of errands.

How will you wear your denim vest?

READY SET DRESSS!!

Edited by Cheryl Y. Hunt