How to wear Pretty Pastels

How to wear Pretty Pastels

WEARING PASTELS

It’s true what they say; all things old become new again and isn’t that true for the timeless, ever-so feminine and beautifully classic pastel trend. Pastels always find their way onto our radar at this time of year. Pale, romantic and pretty pastels are a simple yet playful colour palette to keep in your closet. Soft and gentle, pastels can give you the ultimate feminine look. Pastels are a reoccurring feature in summer fashion so it's no great surprise that they are back on the high street again. However, this year sees even paler tones.

Look for colours such as pale yellow, blush pink, icy blue, or light lavender, it's both pretty and appropriate for the season. Feminine and pristine this trend is probably one of the most suited to summer as it looks beautiful combined with subtle ditsy floral prints. This trend will ensure that you look cool, girly and stylish. 

Here are just a few fashion tips to help you wear this popular trend:

I am a massive fan of casual dresses which come up in pastel hues for that luxe carefree look. If you’re looking for the ideal way to look sweet and pretty, then aim for a solid pastel dress. A delicate pastel piece can be used in a variety of ways and is unbelievably versatile. Add a tan bag for the perfect finishing touch.


One of the easiest ways to wear pastels is wearing prints, if you prefer not to go for an all-over print choose one pastel printed item such as a skirt and team this with a neutral coloured top with no print! 

You can separate an all over pastel outfit by keeping neutral shades in your accessories. Turn to tan or grey in particular with belts, shoes, handbags and hats. These break up the colour and help you avoid looking washed out.


Pastels can be mixed with darker colours such as navy and grey. These muted tones are a great slimming technique if you’re worried pastels highlight problem areas.  

Wearing pastel coloured pants would be the most timeless option. It can easily be worn with a neutral top; white, grey, black, etc. All depending on the chosen colour! try wearing your trousers with pumps of the same colour but in a darker shade. 

Choose one colour and stick with it throughout your outfit. Pastel coloured clothing itself looks good without too many finishes – the simpler your pastel tone clothing, the better.

You can never go wrong with denim, and pairing your pastel top with a pair of jeans, it adds a touch of sweetness and modernity to the look. A darker wash will give it a more formal look, so if you want something fresher, a lighter wash like chambray will do the trick.

Wear Pastels as Accessories, Wear a neutral outfit-it makes pale accessories really pop.  Choose a statement necklace or a light-coloured handbag. Cream and beige tones are the most versatile of all the pastel shades. They go with any other pastel or neutral shade. 

Yet another way to tackle the pastel trend is to colourblock.  Wear Pastels with Other Pales but Make sure all your pieces are in the same colour family and Make sure that pastel tones you pick do not look like a continuation of your skin.

The most important rule of pastel shades is not to overdo it with all the sweetness. Instead, try to tone it down by accessorising your pastel clothes with pieces in black, white or other neutral tones. Beige and grey shades will also help you balance things out.  

Here are a few chic pastel pieces that will ensure you are on trend this season.

ASOS UK Cord Jacket in Pastel Blue

ASOS UK - Pastel Stripe Rib ruffle bodysuit top

ASOS UK Pimkie Pastel Pink Ripped Detail Skinny Jeans

Zeagoo Women's Loose Ruffle Sleeveless Chiffon Pastel Blouse

AX PARIS Bodycon Midi Dress Pink

DOLCIS BEATRIX Sandal Pastel Pink

CALL IT SPRING Mateare Sandals Blue

For a little more inspiration, take a look at how these fashion bloggers are styling their pastel colour this season.

Elle fanning pastel fashion

Kristina Bazan - Paris Fashion Week street style

I hope these style tips on wearing pastel colours has given you some inspiration! Till' next time xo





WHAT DO YOU THINK?

Editors notes:  This post was originally posted in August 2012 and has been updated

RECAP - MELBOURNE FASHION WEEK

RECAP - MELBOURNE FASHION WEEK

Melbourne Fashion Week took over the footpath of Swanston Street for its annual week long offering that launches the beginning of Spring and Summer and the social season in which Melbourne comes alive. 

Suit: Jack London

Shirt: Department 5

Socks: Gucci

Shoes: Ben Sherman

Bag: No Name

Sunglasses: Arockonalens

The fashion obsessed flowed into the Melbourne Town Hall to view the latest offerings from both designers and retailers with their glasses of champers in hand. It is always a great environment to catch up with your fellow stylish friends, see familiar faces behind a camera and meet new and exciting people that your normally only communicate with through your instagram feed. The MFW Bar meant serious business inside with its set up and exhibition space, which unfortunately did not flow outside to the claustrophobic outdoor area on the footpath either side of the entrance. 

Courtesy: Mamamia

For dedicated fashion addicts there were a handful of people on the street that peaked my interest. Hoards of bloggers, influencers and wannabes presented their best offerings for the camera's as they circled the block. As you know the louder and more individual you are in your clothes, the more likely you are to peak the interest of the papz and be snapped. In this case I felt like I was stuck inside a photo shoot for a menswear suit catalog. After a week of viewing the street styles I was left with the impression that Australian menswear fashion is still relatively conservative, with not much evolution between seasons or even years. Thankfully there were standouts from the ladies who bought their A game to the footpath injecting understated chicness and colourful combinations whilst braving the chilly nights.

Shirt & Blazer: James Harper

Pants: Department 5

Shoes: Lacoste

Bag: Doucals

Sunglasses: Gucci

Trends that dominated the footpath outside the shows:

Street Luxe - The number one dominating trend was the mixing of streetwear with high fashion. Of course all black ensembles were everywhere, and the opposite. All white was also present like a flock of seagulls searching for a potato chip. 

Florals - As Miranda Priestly so eloquently put it, florals for Spring. Groundbreaking. Let's move on.

Belts - Belts were everywhere. Some good, some bad and some that I will be happy to never see again. If I see one more GG gold belt I think I will scream as it has replaced the tiresome YSL tassel bag that every woman has been renting for the last year.

Men in Suts - When it comes to men's suits there were some stylish accessories to set off the slim tailored fits that were on display. Plenty of pocket squares and lapel pins which showed individuality of the wearer. There were minimal pleated trousers which have been huge in Europe for the last two years and plenty of loafers with no socks. Special shout out to the gents who took the stuffiness out of menswear and wore something a little different and didn't play it safe. Bravo.

Pretty Ugly Shoes - Delighted to see so many wonderful shoes with different hardware and embellishments in a variety of styles both on men and women. Thigh high leather tan boots on women with chunky heels were a regular staple. The elaborate shoes would not normally be considered pretty but the vulgarity and opulence was beautiful and refreshing to see in Melbourne. ADORE!

Fur - Fur accessories adorned everything from earrings to bags and shoes. Poor little critters will live on for seasons to come after being dyed in fabulous colours providing a lux

vibe to ensembles.

Blazer & Coat: Oxford

Shirt, Tie, Pocket Squares & Shorts: James Harper

Sweater: Ted Baker

Socks:  Gucci

Most of the shows were exactly as I feared, producing safe visions of well groomed and pruned ensembles ready for the horse racing season in a few months. The flare for dramatics or igniting a point of difference was eliminated by many big designers that played it safe and delivering much of what they have for the previous seasons. However there were a few examples of inspiration and creativity that will be burned in my mind for a while. Don't forget to follow me on Instagram for updates

Garage Runway - As much as I enjoy a good summer dress, there was a lot of black and muted tones or uninspiring patterns that were constantly reused. I understand ethical fashion and the need to be wise with materials, but without variety comes boredom. I have seen so many dresses inspired by Queen B's baseball bat twirling dress to last me a lifetime. 

Menswear Garage - Alike the aforementioned it was held in the basement of the Melbourne Town Hall, the likes of Amxander, Jack London, Autonomy, Chris Ran Lin and Dom Bagnato sent styles down the runway that unfortunately did not peak my interest. Following European trends with oversized bumbags across the chest and numerous patterned materials that were reused for different pieces, there were a few nice pieces but nothing that made me gasp. The overall vibe of the show was trying to be edgy with the model selection, music, skateboards and styling, that it all felt the same. I left a little deflated after this showing.

David Jones - The creative styling team behind the show should be commended for creating safe ensembles that would peak the interest of suburban housewives and gents who require a suit for the races. A huge retailer like David Jones do know their target audience very well and this showcased their knowledge of their consumer, right down to the YSL heels or The Kingsman inspired gentlemen that will soon appear on movie screens.

Premium Runway Four - Finally an injection of what fashion means to me. There were opulent embellishments, tassels, fabric choices, voluminous sleeves and dramatics in the styling including a little homage to good old Formation film clip. The line up of deisgners meshed well together although once again there was a little too much black on the catwalk for my liking, but it is Melbourne after all and black sells. 

Premium Runway - Closing - The saying "Leave the best to last" was true of closing night of the festival with some inspirational displays sent down the ice melting runway. In a week that started off rather underwhelming it was good to wrap the festival up on a positive note with some of Australia’s most popular labels such as Romance Was Born, solid stand out for me.

After a few seasons not attending what was Melbourne Spring Fashion Week and rebranded MFW, it was pleasant to see new ideas influence the program and inject some much needed innovation into the festival. Melbourne has serious pride in it's events and the team behind Melbourne Fashion Week should be commended for staying current and on trend whilst producing a solid program. A huge shout out to the volunteers who spent 12 hour days holding the festival together. Round of applause.

I believe that some of the designers need to lift their game if they wish to retain current supporters of their brands, or attract new customers. By the end of the week photographers were not on the streets, media pit at the end of the runway appeared a little thin and there were many empty seats in the town hall creating an underwhelming atmosphere. With Melbourne Fashion Festival receiving an injection of funding from the State Government recently it will be interesting to see if the fashion capital is big enough for both Fashion Week and Fashion Festival. Let the catwalk battles begin.

Purvi Doshi at Art Hearts Fashion; New York Fashion Week 2017

Purvi Doshi at Art Hearts Fashion; New York Fashion Week 2017

Yes the lure of the long haul flight this week sees me in New York for the very first time - yes what a year it has been. Once again I am on assignment shooting for White Caviar Life; though right now that also includes us attending some New York Fashion Week shows which I am able to put out as soon as I can. Yes take an afternoon nap whenever you can, it really helps! But enough of the preamble; tonight we were down at the Angel Orensanz Center in Norfolk Street which is a super funky historic church building. Although there were three parades and a blistering electronic violin performance opening by Sarah Charness; I want to kick off my coverage with the beautiful, colourful and sustainability crafted garments by Purvi Doshi from India. She is a proponent of slow and eco friendly fashion which is certainly something we need a lot more of. The theme for the range was living peacefully together with nature. I thought the hand stitched designs and elaborate embroidery just oh so romantic. But enough of me, here's my shots from the runway so you can decide for yourselves - useful links at the bottom of the page; and more fashion to come, so stay tuned - follow on Facebook too!

https://www.purvidoshi.com/
http://artheartsfashion.com/new-york/

Telling Stories in Pictures all over..

Kent Johnson, Sydney, Australia.

0433 796 863

kent@artcommunication.com.au

www.kentjohnsonphotography.com.au

www.fashionphotographysydney.blogspot.com/

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How To Make A Cute Outfit With Basic Clothes - OOTD

How To Make A Cute Outfit With Basic Clothes - OOTD

You don't have to spend a lot of money to look amazing. With these cool-girl styling tricks, you'll slay every OOTD

It seems like celebs and style bloggers have unlimited super-cool wardrobes, but really, they just make tiny tweaks to make the most basic outfits look seriously chic. They somehow put together things you never thought would go to create totally fresh, next-level looks using the same pieces. You don't need a stylist to do it! To score the same next level-style just follow these easy tips for making any outfit instantly cooler.

 Knot a button-down shirt to show off your waist.

 A midi skirt looks super cute with that plaid shirt that's already in your closet. Tying it in the middle will show off rather than hide your shape and give you a more polished look. Layer a turtleneck underneath to keep your belly from showing when it's chilly out.

Here's the trick to making the perf knot: Undo the bottom three buttons and tie the shirt tails into a knot. Tighten so the knot hits just above your belly button and knot again. Straighten the ends so it sits where you want.

Belt your layers.

Layering is an easy way to look fashion-y when it's cold outside and save money by getting more use out of the pieces already in your closet. But when you have a bunch of different layers on, the finished product can end up look a little bulky and random. A belt pulls the whole look together and carves out your figure under all those clothes, so all those layers don't swallow you up.

Here's how it's done:

 Step 1: Start by layering a thin, long-sleeved shirt under a sleeveless dress.

Step 2: Toss a button-down shirt on top and leave it open.

Step 3: Add a furry vest.

Step 4: Pull it all together with a belt.

Vest, zara.com; Hat, bcbgeneration.com; Gloves, carolinaamato.com; Belt, gap.com; Denim shirt, bigstardenim.com; Talula Turtleneck, aritzia.com; Dress, mollybracken.com; Shoes, aldoshoes.com

3. Cuff your jeans.

There's nothing wrong with rocking your jeans as is, but your fave closet staple can get an easy upgrade with ankle cuffs. It's a subtle style trick that instantly freshens up an outfit you've worn a million times. Not to mention, it's the perf way to show off your rockin' footwear. The trick is to choose the right technique based on the pant style you're rocking.

Skinny Jeans

Cuffs on skinny jeans look best on the smaller side, because they keep the streamlined look of the fitted pants. Make the cuffs about a half-inch wide and only roll them twice.

Boyfriend Jeans

When it comes to the baggier style of jeans, it's less about cuffing and more about rolling. You want to keep the casual vibe of the jeans intact, and the looser, bulkier fabric works well with a messier cuff.

Roll your jeans about three times with 1-inch cuffs. Don't press down on the cuffs to make a crease. Instead, go for a cylindrical shape like a roll. Mess the cuff up when you're finished so it doesn't look too perfect.

Stack your rings.

 One ring is cute; eight is even cuter. But how do you make different sizes and styles of rings look cool and edgy and not like you're a preschooler who got in her mom's jewelry box? It's all about placement and how you stack the different styles. 

Cinch a shapeless dress.

A boxy shift dress hides your shape and can look like it came from your mom's closet. Knot it in the middle to gather up all that extra fabric and totally transforms the dress into a more figure-flattering style.
It's super easy to do yourself! Just follow these steps:

Cute Outfits For Curvy Figures - Spring Trends

Cute Outfits For Curvy Figures - Spring Trends

Curvy girls have it tough when it comes to dressing. But, there are no set rules in fashion which you should stick to, and the fashion gods will not come crashing down on top of you. Dare to make a statement this season with all the apt fashion essentials in town. Most importantly, you need to know how to hide the ample curves.

Read on to find out how in a few easy ways you can transform yourself into a slimmer self. Here’s how you can easily enhance your best assets.
Vital Fashion Staples

The rule is to opt for solid hues instead of crazy or neon colours or large prints. Sleek, simple, non-ruffled outfits will complement you.

    Have a few button up shirts and feminine tops in your closet, it can make you look feminine and classy. In fact, it would look good on any body type.

Fabulous Spring Trends for the Curvy Girl

    Opt for full-printed jumpsuits or rompers. These should be in every curvy girl’s wardrobe. The prints camouflage the not so great parts, giving a toned look.

    Get yourself a skater dress in varied hues or floral prints, it beautifully hides you waist down if you are well-endowed, camouflages the bottom and makes your waist look thinner. Skater dresses in fit and flare styles also make you look feminine and skim over your hips.

    Sheath dresses flatter your figure type. This is almost a staple, works from day to night so go pick a few in black, navy blue, slate grey or maroon.

    Maxi skirts and maxi dresses are always appealing and flatter curvy women. They are easy, breezy, and casual so why not make them your best friend. Get them in chiffon, georgettes, satin and knife pleats.

    Embrace midi-skirts like it’s your go-to item in your wardrobe. These skirts preferably in A-line or pencil skirts can hide the flab on your thighs and buttocks. Pair it up with a shirt or a plain tee and you are instantly transformed.

    If you wish to go short, don’t fear! Simply shop around for chino shorts or Bermuda shorts or Capri instead of the teeny weeny hot pants. They are comfortable and high on style quotient.

    Go retro! The 70’s style fashion can hide those extra kilos with ease. From high-waisted pants to bell bottoms, just let go of your inhibitions.

    Do you want a piece which serves serious glamour moments? Well, embrace the fringes. Fringes on a top or dress or skirt can hide extra flab and give you a cool look.

    If you like denims then opt for darker versions and not the light ones. Make sure you refrain from the slim fit or skinny ones as they can draw attention to wide hips and thighs, the regular fit or high-waisted or wide legged would suit you better.

    Off shoulder or peasant tops are having a moment. They highlight your shoulders and hide the flaws waist-up. If you are top heavy, this is quite the ideal clothing for you.

    For party wear, you can actually pick a one shoulder top, scoop neck or slightly loose tube top which again camouflage the upper body flaws/flab or curves. Even a halter top frames a large body beautifully well.

    Avoid over-sized or loose clothing as it would invariably make you look big, however you should also steer clear of figure hugging outfits. Well fitting and tailored clothes are just what you need to get the apt look.

    If you are going holidaying, make sure you carry along a printed or bold coloured one piece bikini and tie a sarong on it.

    Tailored blazers can give you a chic and classy look. Needless to say, they make a difference to your look and flatter the figure.

    Now, here is a must-have to go every attire that you have in your wardrobe – the waist belt! This miraculous piece can make you look slender by adding definition to your curves.

White Shirt Outfit Ideas - Tips For Ladies

White Shirt Outfit Ideas - Tips For Ladies

WHITE SHIRT OUTFIT IDEAS

Let’s start with some basic style tips to go with your white shirts:

    If you have a beautiful new skirt that you want to show off then a white shirt will always be the best option.
    Add a sleek suit to your white shirt for a professional look.

    For a lively look, pair it with bright prints.

    They are excellent for layering under or over your outfits.

    Use accessories like hats or neck bows to give the same shirt a different look.

    For date night, pair it with neat denim jeans to keep things simple but classy.

    Don’t forget heels if you’re wearing the white shirt as a dress.

  Use different shades of white for a hot and casual look.

 If you find white shirts too sheer, opt for tank tops as inner wear with them.

With a Shirt Dress for a Bolder Look

Nothing beats simplicity especially if it comes with this type of shirt dress that brings sexiness into your fashion statement. 

 With Leather Pants for School

Pair your button up white shirt with a pair of serious leather pants and a leather bag to bring out the supermodel in you!

Classy Casual Outfit For Guys - Tips For Men

Classy Casual Outfit For Guys - Tips For Men

Men like to keep their dress code very casual, because it is one of the most comfortable dress code, providing an instant relaxed style but also practicality and a “being cool” sense if styled properly. By a little styling you can enhance your dressing style. We are going to show you some amazing casual dress ideas for men for this season.

Mostly men have a couple of jeans and shirts in their wardrobe. Very few like to add formal clothes to their closet. If you don’t own some cool T-shirts you are definitely lacking behind in the fashion sense. To be well dresses, you need to own few pair of jeans and shirts that are very casual and stylish.

You can easily afford these and wear them on regular basis. Casual dresses are very cheaper than formal ones. Therefore purchasing them wouldn’t be any problem for you all. Only a little advice on how to dress well in casual clothes can change your personality and style. A good dressing style can grab everyone’s attention wherever you go. The trick to dress up well is not that difficult. By adding new styles, colors and looks can be a bonus point for you.There are a lot more options for you to wear.  Such as cardigans, t-shirts, collared shirts, sport clothes, Polo’s etc. Carrying accessories is also must. Now lets begin with some  simple casual dress tips for men

Jeans with White Tee Shirt: Boys/men mostly prefer clothes in monochromatic tones and this styling idea is another go at the same tone. White has always been a favorite among men but to make it a little stylish wear it in fashion with regular patched denim and grey ankle high boots. Dark and light colors are must to have in your wardrobe. Denim jeans is must. You can pair any kind of outfit with it.Roll over your trouser

Beanies and T-shirts : Purchase some T-shirts of different styles and colors. You can find some interesting designs at the shops and online too. Replace them with your old typical branded shirts. Graphic shirts are a regular purchase item for men as they come into daily wear but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a stylish look about you. invest in some beanies for the winter season usually a dark toned one and pair it up beautifully with your regular jeans. Facial hair can add extra dapper look.

Collared shirts : A university student or just going out on  a lunch date? both occasions call for a little formal attire but now formal has strayed into some fashion sense and who doesn’t like to wear collared shirts? They are the most stylish shirts you can wear casually. Whether you wear it with jeans or pants. Try to come out of the old designs and colors, rather go for new patterns and styles. Jazz up a simple collared shirt with suede oxfords and rolled up skinnies.

Polo shirts with Bermudas : When you hear the word summers and you like to dress up in a decent way then  I am sure you all own Polo shorts. we already shared some great ideas how to wear polo shirts for sharp look. They are very casual and useful for all the men in every kind of weather. Go for dark and bright colors, as they enhance the beauty. Pair your polo shirts with Beige Bermudas for a day out with friends at the beach. You can wear plimsols or just open sandals.