Black nail polish has won its way into our hearts and beauty drawers, but they may not be as welcome at your job. If your job requires that you dress business professional on a daily basis, then the answer is firmly no. Business casual environments may be more accepting of this, but you will know best, your office environment, and if this is acceptable. Hairstylist, make up artists, and other creative jobs get a full pass, not just with black but on all non pink or French mani nails

So, the final verdict on black nails in the work place is play it safe. If you have to question if this is appropriate it’s probably not. And should never be worn during an interview.

Decided that black polish is a go for you? Here are a few tips on how to wear it.

1. Always apply a base coat, and a top coat. The bast coat will prevent staining and the top coat will help combat chipping.
2. Keep your nails short
3. Apply multiple coats
4. Touch up any mistakes with a Q-tip dipped in nail polish remover

Spending money on clothes that will last only a few wears is a thing of the past. Since the recession is still looming over fashionista closets everywhere, it is imperative that we get the most out of the garments we decide are worthy of our money. Since price ≠ quality, it is foolish to assume that because you spend top dollar on something that it is going to last (or that you wont have a wardrobe malfunction in them). So, how exactly do you spot quality? Keep reading…..

Inspect. Give potential closet additions a thorough inspection. Pay close attention to the following:

• Buttons.Buttons, hooks, and fasteners should be secure and sturdy. Poorly attached buttons are a sign of poor quality, but if everything else checks out on the garment, don’t let the buttons deter you, you can always reinforce them. Be sure to ask for a discount if you have to replace or reattach any fasteners. Also, look at the button hole. High quality clothing is bound with thread for strength
• Stitching. Garments tend to rip at the seams, more than any other area. Check all the seams and give them a good pull. Look for any gaps and openings, quality clothing will have close tight stitches, that are sewn in a straight line, and do not pull apart.
• Patterns.Pay close attention to how the pattern continues at the seams. Patterns on well made clothing, interlace without distortion or breaks. For example, on a striped shirt do they line up with the corresponding stripe on either side? Do they connect properly at the shoulders? For handbags, is the logo cut off awkward? For some prints, this may not matter in terms of aesthetics or even durability, but aligned patterns are a sign of good workmanship.
• Fabric. Unless the item is meant to be sheer, your skin should not show through. Also, good quality items will have a high thread count, and resist wrinkles (with the exception of linens)

Inspecting  before you buy is a critical step in getting the most out of your clothes, but it doesn’t end there. Once you get them home, proper care is paramount. Following the instruction on the tag, according to the material is always a smart move, but here are some extra steps you can take to keep your clothing pristine:

• Turn your jeans inside out while in the wash, doing so will help prevent fading.
• Since most fading occurs in the dryer, keep your drying time to a minimum. Allow clothes to air dry (out of the sun) to about 75% dry and then place them in the dryer to finish the drying process and smooth out any wrinkles.
• Bra’s should be handwashed, but if you do put them in the wash, put them in a lingerie bag or pillow case, and fasten the buckles.
• NO WIRE HANGERS! There’s a reason Mommy Dearest goes bananas over them. They are too thin to provide any shape support, and rusting and snagging may occur.
• Fold sweaters and knits to avoid stretching them
• Hang like fabric materials and colors together in the closet, you don’t want your rough denim rubbing your silks or color transfers.
• Don’t be afraid of the iron. I personally hate ironing, so I avoid wrinkly materials, but sometime an iron is all a garment needs to look new. (avoid too much starch)
• Don’t wash your clothes. At least for a few wears. Depending on what you’re doing and where you’re going jeans can get 2-3 wears before washes and jackets even longer.

What characteristics do you look for in clothing to help you determine if it is worth buying or not? Tell us in the comments.

Since the resurrection of the skinny jean, long gone are the days when women cringed at the word tapered. We embraced tapered jeans, and now trousers. For Spring and Summer the pleated tapered trousers aka peg leg trousers [also, incorrectly known as chinos or tailored harem pants (I still cringe at the word harem)] is a trend worth trying.

Peg leg trousers are characterized by their cropped leg, that falls right above the ankle. The volume on these pants are at the top and enhanced this season with pleats.

Rectangles, Hourglass, and long waist body types can pull of this trend without much thought. The inverted triangles, apples, and short waist top heavy ladies will have the most difficulty. Don’t let your body type steer you away from this trend. With a few tips, you can pull this off successfully

For Top Heavy Girls (Inverted Triangle)- I’ve been trying to get back in the itty bitty committee since freshman year of high school. Since they won’t let me in, I have to get creative when it comes to sporting this look. The tapered legs enhance triangles, and can often create imbalance for busty girls. BUT! there are ways to wear this look and not look as if you’re going to topple over. The first tip is to chose a pair with a pleated or ballooned waist/ hip. The added volume near the hips will give an hour glass figure. The second tip is to pair the pants with a darker top and lift your boobs as much as possible with a good supportive or minimizer bra. Lastly, wear a chunkier heel. For inverted triangles, platforms work great with these pants.

Short waist- The second body feature that makes this look difficult to wear is the presence of a short waist. Many of the cropped pants on the racks, sport a high waist, with a ballooned hip; which works great on long torsos, but can make short waists vanish. Obviously, the key is to find a pair that does not have a high waist, and that balloons out a little lower than normal. Because your waist is short, wearing mid rise pants on your natural waist will automatically give you the high waist look. Be sure to leave space between the top of the pants and your breast (again, lift and support the girls as much as possible). Monochromatic color schemes without the break of a belt work best, but if you are busty and short waisted, a belt worn below the natural waist line that still allows a few inches of the pants to be seen above the belt, will also work (by wearing your belt lower, you’re creating the illusion of a longer torso). A faux high waist if you will

Apples: Your major obstacle to this trend, will be creating the illusion of a waist. Shape wear will help you get a uniform shape overall, after which, you can add volume where needed. Strong shoulders, with a lower ballooned hip will give an hourglass illusion. If you are a top heavy apple, focus on adding volume around the hip/waist area; and if you are a bottom heavy apple, strong shoulders can balance you out.

Still look for inspiration on how to peg leg? Check out this video from Elle UK

Most importantly, Have Fun and wear it with confidence!

Even with all the good, I have been plagued with minor fits of anxiety. I don’t know why. I initially thought it was because of my Bday, but since that has passed, I think I am just excited with anticipation of success that I visualize daily. You all really have to read “The Secret” to understand what I’m talking about. Luckily I can deal with it, but constantly feeling like you’re expecting something (good or bad) can get annoying.

I kept spending to a minimum the past two months and in total only purchased 5 new clothing items, and no new beauty products. Speaking of beauty products, I am on a ban (other than white strips, if you consider that a beauty purchase). My makeup drawer is beyond ridiculous. See:

And that is just the stuff I “supposedly” use most often. I’m going to make Palettes for all of the e/s and put them away. I don’t wear e/s on a daily basis. In fact I only use around 6 products regularly (foundation or powder, eyebrow pencil, eye liner, blush, mascara, fix + spray) so there is no need for all the stuff.

As far as shopping for June, I’m on a ban from spending my money. I got enough gifts and gift cards to hold me over. The one must get on this list is a pair of flats and summer tops. I got a few questions via email about budgeting for fashion, and I will likely get a post out for it soon.  So, that is all for now. I leave you with the newest addition to my workout playlist:

if you have any questions or requests, send me an email to email {at} thestyleaficionado {dot} com

A nude dress. Nude is a big trend for Spring, and a nude dress can fill in for your LBD at almost any Spring function.

A White or Light Leather Jacket. The biker chic trend hasn’t completely faded, it’s just lightened up some. This jacket is great if you tend to get cold easy and live where it  may be cooler at night or in the afternoons during the Spring (Unfortunately for me, that is NOT FL)

Orange Lips. Big in make up is the transition from red to orange lips. This color can be flattering on all skin tones, and will definitely put a smile on your face.

Bad-Ass accessories. Accessories can update any wardrobe, any season, but for this Spring break out the extra, over the top jewels and mix them together. Pearls and flowers, Chains and tulle, metals and ribbons etc…..  don’t be afraid to layer and mix and match different finishes.

Cuffed shoes. I love how the Shoe-tie has transformed itself for Spring into open toed cuff shoes. Both of these pairs are from Bakers and under $50!

How to Wear the Trend

The great news is that floral prints can be worn by all regardless of age, shape or skin tone. The key is to find a print and color scheme that is flattering and one that you are comfortable in. If you are like me and reluctant to wear an all over print, break up your florals by purchasing separates and pairing with a solid top, belting, and/or layering with cardigans and blazers.

if you are:

Petite:

You may get lost in bold prints and patterns, opt for soft colors and florals with a smaller or muted print. They key is to wear the dress, not have it appear to be wearing you. If you do decide to wear a bold print, ensure the colors are complementary to your skin tone or show more skin. Nude shoes work great for petite girls because they will elongate your legs. PLEASE remember that petite is a size, not a shape. You still should be cautious of where you place your prints, the size of the print, and what body parts you want to show off or tone down.

Plus Sized:

Plus sized divas can support a bolder print, but to prevent from looking like a walking flower shop, you may want to break it up with a jacket or belt. If you are heavier in one area moreso than another, opt for smaller prints as large one will create the illusion of added weight. As with the petite girls, plus sized is just that, a size. Be mindful of your body shape and use the prints to maximize your assets and minimize your less favorite body parts.

photos: shopbop/torrid

Whether you need to look older to command more respect among your peers, or to keep people from thinking your daughter is your sister, I have listed some tips below to help you along the way. Being 25 and frequently in a corporate environment, I know the struggles of trying to gain the respect of seasoned professionals when you look fresh out of high school.

• The first tip is obvious, stay away from items that are typically reserved for younger age groups. Glittery eye shadows and lip gloss in funky colors scream teenager. Don’t go sans makeup, but keep your palette neutral
• Overcompensate with your wardrobe. Wear solid, dark colors with structured cuts, and simple patterns. Opt for a fitted knee length pencil skirt versus a short bubble skirt, and heels instead of sneakers. The sharp lines of your clothing will counteract any roundness that could be associated with having a baby face. Leave the cut off shorts and T-shirts out.
• Wear sophisticated accessories. Stray away from colorful plastics and overly sparkly items.
• Lastly, Hair. Changing your hair can have the most drastic impact. The style you choose will vary based on your face shape, but typically long flowy waves are more youthful than short and structured. Obviously pigtails and braids should be avoided.

21-year old actress Hayden Panettiere recently ditched her long blond locks for a short sleek style that makes her look older and more mature. Her make up was kept neutral with the focus being on her eyes. This is the perfect example of how a hair cut with simple make up can transform your look.

here she is before the big chop

Edited by Keedah
 

We had a sneak peak at spring weather and so far I like what I see. The warm weather will be here permanently very soon and this weeks links will help break you out of your winter shell.

• From K is For Kinky gianmarco lorenzi crystal pumps that will cause a shoegasm
• Temple of Glam presents “Free to Be You and Green - Eco-friendly oil for face, body, cuticles, lips…
• Hair Chronciles: Great looks for the spring! by Her Goody Bag
  
• The Style Afficionado shows you how June Ambrose helps you get your closet ready for Spring
• Glamour Whore shares some of her favorite things…
  
• Diary of a Style Addict shares some spring inspired dry marbled nails

So I am excited that Spring is here! The weather in Florida is beautiful, and the current Spring trends are equally as nice. I am excited about floral prints, nautical fashion and getting to show some skin. Although Fall is my favorite season, Spring is a very close second.

I am still working on getting that extra me time into my day. I’ve already figured out how to get at least 10, by using my dishwasher vs washing them myself.  My nails are thanking me. Now If only I could afford a chef! As you can tell, I have not changed the layout yet. Despite my extra 10min I haven’t had time. I’ve looked into some premium themes, but I can’t decide. Possibly because I still don’t know exactly what I want.

In happier news, I AM NO LONGER AN ADULT WITH BRACES!!!!! I was debanded on 3/30. I am happy with my new smile, but after all the anticipation and anxiety, I’m not has happy with the results as I expected. Not to mention the retainers give me a lisp. Here’s a real time photo of my free teeth. Please forgive my Marie Claire moment, I usually blog in this and Jimmy Choo’s with a full face of MAC. lol

COMPLETE RANDOM-NESS about me

Music

•  I prefer good lyrics over catchy tunes, but Rihanna’s Rude Boy has grown on me despite her lack of lyrical content.
• I still have the Mis Education of Lauryn Hill in my car
• When I read the posts about a song called Tightrope (before I heard it) All I could imagine was Kim from RHOA – there’s a tightrope, between me and you… BTW I heart Janelle Monae, and her make up is fierce in the video.
• I love this line in Jay-Z On to the next one “Yeah I got on flip flops, white louis boat shoes, y’all should grow ** up, come here let me coach you.”  I hate to see guys in Timberlands on the beach.

Confessions

• I still have shoes I haven’t worn.
• I hide clothes from my husband in my trunk
• I’m a pretty good cook, but not so good at baking.
• I love a good no-bake pie recipe
• I had to read the art of war twice. Once to finish and again to digest
• I am considering getting a Masters in PR
• I’m and undercover introvert, but I’m a Gemini, so I am also an undercover extrovert. lol

That’s all for now. Hi to all the new Facebook fans and Twitter followers, don’t be a stranger.

Hello All!! I would like to start by conveying Happy Easter wishes to all from The Glamarazzi!!! Hope the Easter Bunny is nice to you:) Our contribution is a basket full of fabulous beauty, fashion and glamour tips!! Enjoy!!

The Style Aficionado evaluates Spring denim trends

Temple Of Glam has Beauty tips from celeb makeup artist Sam Fine & Lisa Wu Hartwell from “Real Housewives of Atlanta”

Kim Porter teaches you the importance of eyeshadow primers & bases when applying your eyeshadow to keep it lasting all day.

With the summer only 2 months away Her Goody Bag helps you get in shape with Summer 101: Beach Body

Why ProjectDanielle wears her sunglasses (not at night) and you should too.

Make-up/Music/Money/Me reviews goodies from EcoTools

Hot Beauty Health shows you 8 trendy ways to wear neutral colors for Spring!

Vex in the City tests out Shu Uemera’s LE Iconic Discovery Set which includes two of its best selling products.

Obessesion Isn’t Just A Perfume: Give your pores a good Spring cleaning with Alba Deep Sea Facial Mask.

The Glamour Whore tells which trends in avoid. Just say “NO! NO! NO!”