Losing Style in Fashion

"Style is the perfection of a point of view"--Richard Eberhart

You know that feeling when you want something really really badly? You'd do anything to get it. You'd work as hard as you could. Well that was how I felt about a certain fashion site. It was exclusive and I wanted in more than anything! I worked hard planning my looks and the photos to go with them. I was confident with what I was submitting! So where's the problem? It lies in the mentality I had. I was trying to please this group of people that don't even know me or my real name! The look wasn't my own--what I would actually wear; it was what I thought would sell. I know this is just my story, but I feel like this is a huge problem today. People can lose their personal style in pursuit of fashion.

I'm not a fashion designer. Heck, I can't draw to save my life! If I attempted to sketch an outfit, it would probably look like a patterned potato sack--or the work of a three year old. I don't have to sell my designs to make a living. My clothes are simply that--my clothes. They're for me. They express who I am. That's what clothes should do. In my opinion, clothes are an extension of the person wearing them. They should express who we are inside. Really, that's what any art form does! Personal style isn't meant to please everybody. If it pleases you, that should be enough! It doesn't always feel that way though. It can be tough.

So I vote we band together! It's okay to be unique; in fact, it's absolutely beautiful! Never lose who you are because someone tells you that you can't wear knee socks over pantyhose along with your favourite pumps! 

As for right now, wherever my style ends up--be it on a webpage, in a magazine, on tv or in the mirror in my bedroom--I'm fine with that. My style is my style. It's personal, ever changing and unique. It will not change for anyone. It represents who I am and what I do. My style is me.

Here I am.

The Power of Red

Shopping Guide

Jimmy Choo Quiet patent-leather pumps, $665
Mulberry Bayswater leather bag, $1,150
Armand Diradourian Woven Shawl, $295
Lancome - Color Fever Lip Color No. 120 Red en Vogue ( Reflects ), $28
OPI Holiday Wishes Collection, Comet Loves Cupid OPI Nail Polish, $7.99
Stick wall decoration, 40 GBP

Red. It represents passion, fire and courage. It's bold, daring and sexy! After looking at a few spreads devoted to red accessories in Elle Canada, I started thinking: Red is the ultimate power colour! I don't know about you but I can't help but feel like I rule the world when I'm rocking red! When I'm primping for a girls night out I love to go for a bold red lip (paired with a neutral eye of course!). It's bold, classic, sophisticated AND fun! A red handbag makes for an excellent pop of colour as does red jewelery. A pop of red electrifies any outfit. Need a mid-winter pick me up? Try a red scarf! This past winter the Olympics were held in Vancouver, British Columbia (Go Canada!). The red Olympic mitten craze began. I'll admit; i bought a pair and I absolutely love them! My ULTIMATE red fashion choice? Two words:


Red. Stiletto. 


The red stiletto is, in my humble opinion, the sexiest shoe known to man! Rocking a pair of red stilettos pretty much screams "I'm here, biznatch!" It is, in my mind, a necessity for any fabulous diva!


I will definitely be incorporating red into my fall/winter wardrobe. What's life without a little pizazz?


Red is sexy, glamorous, classic and fierce!


How will you rock your red?  

Book Review-- How to be a Budget Fashionista:The Ultimate Guide to Looking Fabulous for Less

A few days ago I posted my tips and tricks for budget shopping. I thought I'd do a little review on the book that taught me so much of what I know! Not only is this book a great resource for the majority of us--the ones who don't have money trees in the backyard or other seemingly endless sources of income--but for anyone who is simply interested in fashion and paying less for the same great pieces! Why pay more for something if you don't have to?! "No no! I know it's only $5, but here, take $50!". Hahaha yea right! When you can do that please let me know; i'd like to know your secret!


How to be a Budget Fashionista by Kathryn Finney is a quick read and a lasting guide. Only 240 pages long you could read it in one sitting and be done with it, but that's really not the point. Kathryn breaks the process down into 3 steps and then goes into detail on each.

1. Know your budget- Here you'll find tips on budgeting and funding a wardrobe without going broke or into debt. Nice right? There are also online budgeting resources at the end of the book to help you out! 
2. Know your style- This section has tips and tricks for every aspect of your wardrobe--from undergarments to beauty. You'll also find lists of essentials, fun quizzes and info on how to take a closet inventory and make your current wardrobe work for you!
3. Know your Bargains- Here we go! This section will let you in on the secrets of the budget fashionista. I could list what this section covers but where's the fun in that? All I'll say is that this section is very very interesting and will arm you with everything you need to make your next shopping adventure a success. Your wallet will thank you too!

In addition to all of the amazing tips and tricks I have mentioned above, you'll get a mini-guide to caring for clothes and links to online budget resources! This book is an overall great read and shopping companion! 

Youtube Channel

Bright Lights, Big Style has a new youtube channel! I'll be adding content shortly including a fall look slideshow, interviews and other video blogs!

youtube.com/user/brightlightsbigstyle

How to be a budget fashionista

Don't you wish being fabulously fashionable would just cost less? Lucky for us...it can! Here are a few tips and tricks that will get you on your way to becoming a true budget fashionista!

1. Discount Designer

There are a few ways to go about this:

• The recent recession influenced alot of designers to create cheaper lines for major department stores such as Macy's and Target. Though the quality won't match their more expensive lines, the pieces are fashion forward and affordable
• Of course, you can also check out your favourite designer's collections during a sale! Though the pieces are still expensive, they are less expensive than when they are regular price
• BEST BET: High end department stores such as Neiman Marcus and Holt Renfrew have last call stores. Here you can find high end designer labels for up to 80% off. It takes awhile to look around but this is a great choice for handbags, shoes, evening gowns...anything really! My personal victory involves a pair of Manolo Blahnik pumps: $750 for $170. It was a good day!

2. Clearance and Sales

When you hit to your favourite stores, head to the back; that's usually where the clearance and sale racks are

 3. Shop online to compare prices

I'm not suggesting buying online (though there are some great deals out there) because personally I like to try things on, but shopping online is a great way to compare prices and decide which stores you'd like to check out when you head to the mall.

 4. Consignment and vintage

Consignment and vintage stores are excellent resources! You can find designer pieces for alot less than regular price. Some pieces are called classics for a reason: They never go out of style!

5. Use your wardrobe to its full potential

Wanna know the best way to save money? Not spending it! Take a wardrobe inventory every now and then. Accessories like scarves can be worn many different ways. Dresses can hop seasons with the addition of leggings, tights or the right shoes. Look at every piece and think of all the ways you can use it! Check out the one item--three looks section for some ideas!

 6. Shop between seasons

Not only is this the perfect sale time, but you can snag some awesome transitional pieces. These pieces can work for multiple seasons

The Little Black Dress Event 2010

One of my favourite events is coming up on Friday, September 17th and you need to get involved!

The Little Black Dress event aims to raise awareness and funds for Wellspring London and Region. Wellspring is an organization that provides courses and other support services to cancer survivors, their families and caretakers. Wellspring depends on community awareness and support so the Little Black Dress event is very important! We've all been touched by cancer in some way, so let's band together and do our part!

This event is hosted by Nova Vita--a fabulous, elegant hair and esthetics studio in downtown London, Ontario--and Twisted Pickle Events and Marketing. Tickets are $25 in advance and can be purchased by contacting Nova Vita. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $30. Over $17 000 was raised for Wellspring last year and this year's goal is $30 000.

This semi-formal event features drop n' draw prizes, silent and live auctions, and afabulous fashion show. This year's designers include Ross Mayer, The WareHouse, Saffron Road and Kingsmills. This event is constantly growing and is always a great evening!

Schedule of Events

7:00pm- doors open, check in, cash bars open, hors D'oeuvres, coat check

8:30- Fashion show followed by drop n' draw and auction results

10:00-1:00- Music by DJ Aria

So girls...grab your favourite little black dress and come support an amazing cause! If you really needed an excuse to dress up and have a blast, this is it!

The Leather Jacket

Ever since I can remember, I have wanted my very own leather jacket! They practically go with EVERYTHING and you can't help but feel a little more confident while rocking a leather jacket. I made it my mission to buy my dream leather jacket this year. I finally found a beautiful Mackage for Aritzia leather jacket. Wearing it feels like having a permanent hug. I LOVE this jacket! So I started thinking...how many ways can one wear a leather jacket? Let's be serious...they're expensive; so you want to make sure you get your money's worth! Below are three of my favourite leather jacket looks! I believe they capture the versatility of the leather jacket.

Feeling inspired?? Head out to purchase your own permanent hug!

Leather jackets are known for representing rock and roll. They have an edge to them! That's one of the things I love about them! To unleash your inner rock star pair your leather jacket with some medium-dark wash distressed denim jeans or even some denim leggings if you're really daring! Add the right accessories--like a chunky necklace and some killer boots--and you're ready to rock your city's world!

When the temperature starts to dip my best friend is my leather jacket! Wear yours around town with medium-dark wash jeans and an interesting/detailed top. Finish the look off with some embellished flats and simple jewelery! Feeling bold? Choose a bag that will pop against your outfit!

Leather jackets don't have to spell "biker chick" or "rock and roll"! Use your leather jacket to create a feminine look that can go from day to night with a few simple tweaks! A brown leather jacket softens the look allowing for a more feminine feel. Try a light-medium wash jean to compliment this choice. Pink is always a nice feminine choice and here I have chosen to use a softer, more muted pink--a shade that is elegant but fun! to go from day to night put on some heels and replace studs with more prominent earrings! Complete the look with a fun and functional handbag!

Fall Trend Report

1. Animal Print, Snake-Skin
2. Tribal and Native details
3. Leather
4. Lace
5. Knitwear
6. Skinny cargos
7. Acid wash and distressed denim
8. Blazers
9. Military pieces-- Easy way to complete a look? A military style jacket!
10. Detailed tops--we're talking chains, studs, rips, sparkles and interesting necklines
11. Jeggings--try them in a variety of washes!
12. Fall Skirts and Shorts--Fall fabrics and colours take these summer favourites into the new season! Add some tights and you're ready to go!
13. Bright Preppy pieces
14. Floral and Watercolour patterns
15. Equestrian--riding boots, tailored cuts and riding-inspired accessories

Fall Trend Report: Shoes and Accessories

This season, tribal and African themes are seen in jewelery. Look for feather details, thick, wooden beading, animal print, and bold necklaces. Thick belts, as well as woven belts are popular as well. Animal print and snake-skin dominate accessories as well, including handbags. Statement scarves are also a fall staple! When it comes to shoes, look for leather and suede, animal print, snake-skin, the shoe boot, wool-like fabric boots, velvet flats, rustic/chunky shoes, studs, and muted pink feminine touches. Staples include the shoe boot, high structured boots, animal print pumps and embellished flats.

Fall Trend Report: Colour

CREAM,BEIGE,BROWN,GREY,BLACK- These fall staples have returned once again! Since they are neutral, pairing them with pops of other fall colours will build your fall wardrobe! 


SILVER,GOLD- Hints of metallics will spice up any wardrobe! 


PURPLE- Dynamic purples and plums are a great fall colour choice! They are sophisticated, fun, rich and vibrant! Purple is a recurring fall favourite! 


BURGUNDY, WINE, RED- Burgundy and wine are awesome fall colours that are creeping into more and more stores every day. Pops of these colours are great additions to any fall wardrobe. While browsing through Aritzia, something caught my eye...RED! Some designers had used red accents in their fall lines. It seems so many people rely on neutrals to get them through fall and winter, surviving...no....enduring the colder seasons and waiting until they can wear colour in the spring. It doesn't have to be that way! I think adding bright red to your fall wardrobe is a great idea! This is definitely one trend I will be adopting! 


DEEP AQUA AND BLUE- These colours are great for the summer-fall transition. They can be staples now and accents in your fall wardrobe! This season, I'm seeing deep aqua and royal blue in many stores. 


ARMY GREEN- This fall colour trend goes hand-in-hand with this season's tribal/African trend and is quickly becoming a staple! 


PINK- Muted pink is hands down my favourite fall colour trend! It adds a feminine touch to any ensemble. Add it to your wardrobe in the form of accessories or clothes and instantly soften any look. Brighter pinks were seen in GUESS as accents on otherwise black and white shirts. This created a feminine rock chic--a staple of their fall collection. 


PLAID- Plaid shirts were huge last year and appear to be back. I haven't seen as many as I did last fall, but I'm sure they're on their way!






The Pantone fashion colour report for fall 2010 has been released and here are the top colours for fall 2010!

Pantone Fashion Colour Report Fall 2010

Welcome!

Hey there! Welcome to Bright Lights, Big Style! I started this blog because I found myself frustrated with living in a small town for one reason: Fashion! I've always had a passion for fashion and a unique style. For the past four years I have attended a high school with mandatory uniforms...a fashionista"s nightmare! We did, however, have a light at the end of the tunnel: The last Tuesday of every month was non-uniform day--a chance to wear real clothes! Now, here comes the problem. I found myself in a sea of Lululemon yoga pants, TNA hoodies and Uggs...practically year round! Everytime I wore something so much as a nice top and jeans, my friends would question: "Why are you so dressed up?". Dressed up? I hadn't even gotten started! I read every fashion magazine I could and started incorporating the styles I saw into my own wardrobe, creating my own unique style. My goal with this blog is to bring the catwalk to the sidewalk. I want my readers to feel confident taking risks with fashion and taking this season's latest trends and making them work for their lives! Big city fashion CAN work in small towns!

You don't always need bright city lights to have big style!