HOT TREND: THE COOLEST WAYS TO ROCK SNEAKERS

HOT TREND: THE COOLEST WAYS TO ROCK SNEAKERS

The sneakers/trainers/running shoes trend, whatever you want to call it, has exploded onto the fashion scene for 2014 and is really taking off!  Brands like Nike, New Balance and more are releasing their takes on the sneakers and fashion bloggers, celebrities from across the globe have jumped on board the trend!


A cool pair of comfy lace-ups is the perfect way to dress down a fancier frock or add an unpredictable twist to a more casual ensemble.  As we saw on the Chanel and Dior Couture runways, these pumped up kicks are being worn with anything and everything, including skirts and dresses.

Wearing heels 24 hours just sounds impossible. Sandals and boots aren’t for every season and sneakers just seem to be the way to go sometimes. But sometimes it can be challenging to incorporate into a fashionable outfit, without looking like you just hit the gym. I’ve included multiple photos of street style stars, bloggers and more sporting the sportswear trend and rocking it! we all want to feel pretty, girly, and even sexy while wearing sneakers.  

1. Don’t just wear any sneaker
You should have non-gym sneakers that are clean and flattering, and have a certain classy look about them – you want people to know you’re wearing them as a fashion statement.
2. All or nothing
Depending on your personality, you’ll either want to stock up on barely-there ankle socks or go all in with eye-catching socks that complement your ensemble.
3. Be particular with the rest of your outfit
Make sure the rest of your outfit is polished with clean lines (in other words, no frumpy pants that sag over your cool sneakers). The whole point is to offer a stylish contrast between masculine and feminine.
4. Start with a monochromatic look
If you’re new to the world of cool sneakers, make a splash by wearing a monochromatic look and use your sneakers as the pop of colour your outfit is waiting for. Keep the colour palette simple for a complicated shoe.
5. Mix and match
Experiment! Mix different outfits with different cool sneakers without fear you’re “doing it wrong.” Go with your gut and wear what you love – confidence will always make or break an outfit.
6. Go super feminine
Wear form-fitting, girly pieces (like leggings, skinny jeans, or maxi skirts), which will turn your sneakers into a cute accessory instead of an eyesore. 
7. Keep an eye on proportions
Wearing high-top sneakers with a knee-length skirt will make you look shorter – opt for low-tops that will elongate your legs. 
8. Accessorize accordingly
Adding sophisticated accessories will l any doubt that you’re on your way to the gym. Opt for things like a super-tailored blazer, lux fabrics like cashmere, straight leg jeans or a structured bag.

Hopefully this gives you some great inspiration on how to include sneakers into your outfits, whether they be neon, coloured or neutral!  From high-top cut-outs to low-top lace-ups, sneakers are all about keeping it classic. And comfy, of course. Here are some ideas on just how to rock them…

 Which looks do you like? If you love the sneakers trend.

Basic Fashion For Teenage Guys - Tips For Girls Only.

Basic Fashion For Teenage Guys - Tips For Girls Only.

TEENAGE GIRLS FASHION

 The teen years can be a confusing stage, especially when it comes to individual style and fashion. Instead of trying to always fit in with the peer group, as most teens do, it’s also about being an individual and making your own mark. If you have a teen girl at home, you’ve probably already seen her fretting over what to wear and how to style her look.

As a mom, here’s your chance to update your girl with some interesting and very ‘it’ fashion styles that are all the rage right now. Check out some fun and fresh fashion tips for teens that they love to try out.

Here is a list of fashion ideas for teens that will let your teen girl find her own style and be comfortable with it:

1. Colorful Layering:
    Layering is one fashion trend that is always in rage, and goes perfect for all age groups.

    Help your teen try out all her colorful clothes at once, without them looking too in your face.

    Ask your teen to wear a colorful vest and style it with a colorful shirt or jacket on the top.

    Let her pair it with plain denims and sneakers, and a colorful cross body bag.

2. Striped Simple Crop Top:
  Crop tops have come back with a bang and lots of teens as well as adults are wearing it all the time.

    Your teen can wear a cute striped crop top in neutral tones, such as a black and white striped one, and pair it with a simple pair of denims.

    To keep the focus on the top, ask her to keep the accessories or makeup to a bare minimum.

3. Winter Color Match:
    Your teen can use some bright colors in her winter wardrobe to make sure the look is structured, yet vibrant.

    Ask her to pair any two items in her outfit in a color of choice, such as a bright teal woolen cap with a bright teal woolen scarf.

    Make sure she keeps the rest of the outfit is in neutral or light tones, so that the focus remains on the color coordinated ones. A plain white tee or shirt with a basic pair of denims will go great. This is one of the best fashion tips for teenage girls.

4. The Basic Vest:
    The basic vest is one fashion accessory that should be a must-have in your teen’s wardrobe.

    A basic vest in the shade of white will always help her coordinate her other clothes around it.

    Let your teen try out a white vest with a blue pair of denims and simple or bright tie-on sneakers.

    She can also use a number of accessories on her hand to create the layered effect.

    The best part about this look is that your teen can always add another layer on top, by using a scarf, a shirt, a tee or even a jacket.

5. Classic Blue Denim Jacket:
    Make sure your teen has a classic denim jacket in her wardrobe in the shade blue, as it is one fashion accessory everyone should have.

    She can either go for a more form fitted one jacket or one that is a little big for her size, as both will look great when paired up with other clothes.

    Your teen can wear the jacket over a dress, over a regular skirt and top, over a vest and denim combo, over formal attire, or even as a buttoned-up jacket with a black pair of denims.

6. Shorts And Stockings:
    Teens love wearing shorts, and it is one fashion item that your girl can always use to make a stunning style statement.

    Help your teen dress up a simple pair of blue denim shorts by wearing a netted stocking underneath.

    She can team it up with a white crop top and a colorful pair of tie-on sneakers.

    To give the whole look that much more edge, ask her to add a cap and aviators. This is the best teen fashion tips.

7. Vibrant Pair Of Glasses:
    Big and chunky frames of glasses have come back to make a major style statement, both for teens and adults alike.

    The best part about using glasses as a fashion accessory is that your teen can choose the type of look she wants to create.

    You can help your teen choose a pair of glasses that are either same in color or have multiple colors in them. Also, ask her to choose colors that are more vibrant instead of dull, as they will help to brighten up a plain look.

    Your teen can use the glasses with her formal wear as well as easy and fun casual wears.

8. Arm Candies:
    Styling your arm with the right type of accessories is a big fashion statement, one where your teen girl can actually mix and match her different bangles and bracelets.

    From chunky bracelets and bangles to the more dainty and feminine ones, your teen can go for a super stylish layering effect to add character to a regular and plain outfit.

    Let your teen decide what type of look she wants to wear for that particular day. She can take a pick from leather bands, braided bracelets, chunky jeweled bangles, wooden bangles, beaded bracelets, charm bracelets, wristlets, shell bracelets and many many more.

    Make sure that if she wants the highlight to be around her arm, she needs to keep the other accessories to a minimum or not wear any.

9. Pretty In Boots:
    Let your teen girl have a gala time dressing up her outfits by choosing some cute and fashionable boots to go with them.

    These days, boots are available in a variety of colors and styles, not just the blacks and browns of earlier times.

    Ask your teen to pick two pairs in her favorite colors. She can wear them with outfits that she wants to color coordinate with her boots. Alternatively, she can use them to add some spunk to plain and neutral colored outfits.

10. A Girly Dress:
    Make sure your teen has at least one girly dress in her wardrobe.

    Floral patterns, pink or lavender hues and frills or laces will work best.

    She can wear her dress as it is, or dress it up with jackets, stockings, leggings and more.

As a mom, let your teen girl explore and enjoy the world of fashion, even as you guide her through some interesting ideas that will help her create her own individual fashion identity.

What are those three fashion essentials that you feel your teen girl should have in her wardrobe? Do share about it here.

London Summer Olympics 2012: Opening Ceremony Uniforms of the World--The Fab, Good, and Oh Dear!

London Summer Olympics 2012: Opening Ceremony Uniforms of the World--The Fab, Good, and Oh Dear!

London 2012 Parade of Nations Fashionistas

This past Friday were the much-awaited London 2012 Olympics Opening Ceremony, officially signaling the start of the 2012 London Olympics of course. I was in NY on business and watched it at my hotel. I always love watching the Olympics Opening Ceremony for the fabulous spectacle that it always is (Can you say BEIJING!!!). This time around British filmmaker, Danny Boyle (of "Slumdog Millionaire" fame) was placed as the Artistic Director of the London 2012 Opening Ceremony and he put on a fabulous show, taking audiences on a beautifully chaotic
journey through many iconic moments in British history, music, and literature. While the show itself wasn't Beijing jaw-dropping incredible (it's hard to top that darlings!), the Boyle
opening ceremony made for an awe-inspiring beginning to the world’s most
legendary event.

Face Dress: The girls who held the names of the respective nations of the world, all wore these A line-shaped dresses featuring a photo of London 2012 Olympics volunteers--and sensible shoes.



But for me--as a fashion designer and fashion-watcher of sorts--what I most look forward to is the

Parade of Nations and the countries uniforms and "costumes". Here are some of my choices for the Fashion Fab, the Fashion Good" and the  "Oh Dear!" from the 2012 London Summer Olympics Parade of Nations, all sectioned by the separate "areas" and/or continents of the world:



Europe:

The Netherlands: I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE these uniforms. For me, these were one of the best of all the 204 countries. They were designed by Suitsupply and Kudos to them! The colors were GREAT and noticeable from the nose-bleed seats in the stadium I am sure (I wasn't there so I wouldn't know, but I can only assume). The neon orange trench coat (I want ONE!), the matching pants, the dark blazers with white piping, the royal blue dresses. Oh, and to finish it all off, each uniform/outfit had a large tulip in its lapel. How do you say FABULOUS in Dutch? The look was chic, upper class trust funder from a very WASPY college. Parade of Nations Fashion Grade:  A

Belgium: I love any uniform that looks like they should be on some FAB flight attendants. And Belgium's uniforms fit the bill to a "T". They're  sexy, fashionable, and cheeky. Pop of color: check. Sleek styling: check. Parade of Nations Fashion Grade: A

Czech Republic: OK, I am just not sure what Wellies, umbrellas, bedazzled-trimmed blazers with contrast lining and printed cropped leggings or white shorts has to do with the Czech Republic. I assume the rain boots and umbrellas were some sort of a nod to London and it's sometimes rainy weather. Nevertheless, there are so many things going on in these "uniforms" that it's almost as if their theme was "Tacky Tourist". For that, they get a Parade of Nations Fashion Grade: C+ (they get points for "kookiness")

Germany: Things I like: the bright baby blue and "Barbie pink" colors. We can certainly spot them from a mile away. But then the nylon puffy zip-up jackets seem a bit "Fall/Winter" for me and along with the white pants, do not really scream "Germany" (save the hats with the German flag colors). These uniforms look more appropriate for the crew of the Princess Cruises. Parade of Nations Fashion Grade: C

Sweden: The fact that they could somehow transform the Swedish flag into a rugby shirt is fashion-commendable. One can certainly not confuse these kids with any other country that's for sure. Parade of Nations Fashion Grade: B-

Denmark: First off, the Danish are BEAUTIFUL! They all look like Nordic Gene Studies in Pretty. They all kind of look related. And well, the fact that all the women and all the men wore THE SAME outfits did not help the matter. They all look like they are either part of "The Sound of Music" von Trapp family...or flight attendants for EasyJet. Parade of Nations Fashion Grade: B-

Spain: Oh España!! Their bright red and yellow uniforms caused a bit of a controversy when they were revealed and especially when several of the country's Olympic athletes began tweeting photos of their outfits with commentary such as "Can You Believe the CRAZY outfit we have to wear??? #UniformFail" (in Spanish of course). At first glance they looked like McDonalds employees. But when they walked the Opening Ceremony on Friday, the outfits didn't look so bad. The fan-shaped purses and scarves are OK and the women had these cute red rose headbands--very "Bizet's Carmen". Parade of Nations Fashion Grade: B-

Great Britain: Congrats London and Congrats Great Britain for getting the 2012 Summer Games. However, I can't even say anything nice about these getup's. Fashion designer Stella McCartney worked with Adidas to design the sporting gear and
"village wear" (lounge wear) for Britain's home team. I'm not sure who designed these but they should be fired. These were BAAD. They were white tracksuits featuring cropped pants, tops and jackets with tacky gold mylar-looking accents and collars. I can see these looks at the Lunch Buffet on a cruise but NOT at the Olympics Opening Ceremony. What a fail for the host nation and the British athletes. Parade of Nations Fashion Grade: D



Asia:

India: I'm a sucker for a FAB Sari. So, they had me at Namaste. The bright canary yellow color of the women's saris and the turbans of the men, contrasted with the dark jackets made for a great visual display at Friday night's London 2012 Opening Ceremony. One of my Top Parade of Nations looks. Parade of Nations Fashion Grade: A

Malaysia: Three words: I Love It. Just look at those colors, those hats (songkok), the sarong-style overskirts (sampin) on the men...oh, and did I mention the women also looked great! THIS, is why I LOVE watching the Olympics Parade of Nations. Parade of Nations Fashion Grade: A



North and Central America, Caribbean:

Mexico: I mean SERIOUSLY. Mexico. You are SLAYING me with this! Absolutely Fab. It is so over-the-top, so-kitschy, so "Am I at El Coyote's Restaurant in LA?" that I feel as if someone will pull some  nachos with guacamole any minute now from their sombreros or colorful sarapes. I know many of you won't like these looks, but I love the fact that they really "went for it". Viva Mejico! Parade of Nations Fashion Grade: A-

Belize: Well done Belize. Sleek, crisp and chic, sportif. They look like well-heeled members of an exclusive country club. For a small Central American nation, you done did well, kids! For that, I give them my Parade of Nations Fashion Grade: A

Trinidad and Tobago: This Caribbean nation is here because of those FAB red with diagonal stripes wrap dresses on the ladies. I just wish the sleeves were not so long and the length didn't look so dowdy, but other that that, they get a Parade of Nations Fashion Grade: B-

Jamaica: Cedella Marley for Puma designed Jamaica's uniforms and they are some of the most stylish of the Parade of Nations bunch. Neon yellow, apple greens, and black (the flag's colors) combined with a unique print plus the on-trend color blocking and sleek athletic silhouettes make for great ensembles. Puma knows EXACTLY what it is doing. Parade of Nations Fashion Grade: A

Canada: Khaki pants, sneakers and a zip-up jacket isn't really that creative when it comes to uniforms, especially when compared to say what INDIA came up with...however, I do give Canada points for how matchy-matchy they are (in a good way) and the fact that you could never be in doubt of WHERE these kids are from (Hello, can you READ??). Parade of Nations Fashion Grade: B-

USA: A lot has already been said over the PR kerfuffle committed by the Ralph Lauren company for having the US Olympic Uniforms manufactured in China. It was a big PR #Fail for Mr. Lauren. But, as we all know, if they were made in the US, these uniforms would have probably cost Ralph Lauren and the US Olympic Committee FIVE to TEN times as much so that is why the turned to China. Next time, they just need to eat the cost. I am sure billion-dollar rich Ralph Lauren can take it. Nevertheless, yes, it was still an "Oops" moment. With that being said, I kinda liked these uniforms. They were clean, sharp and gave a slight nod to English prep schools and English Savile Row tailoring and of course, had the red, white, and blue of the US flag. To me, the only negative--style-wise, would be the berets and cut of the women's skirts which was not flattering on all body types. Parade of Nations Fashion Grade: B



Africa:

Nigeria: I loved these uniforms from the Nigerian Olympic representatives. The ensembles highlighted traditional Nigerian dress for both the men and women. They were festive and elegant and featured the colors of the nation's flag--green and ivory. Naturally, for me, my standouts were the women and those fitted gowns and draped and wrapped headdresses. And when they entered the auditorium dancing...well, I gave them a Parade of Nations Fashion Grade: A

Senegal: You cannot go wrong with bright canary yellow. Look at those great suit dresses on the women and the kaftans on the men...I need one, like NOW! (the kaftan) I wished the women's headdresses were more "Miss Universe Parade of Nations" over-the-top though. Parade of Nations Fashion Grade: A-

Cameroon: These colorful robes and tunics from the Cameroon group stood out for me for its traditional and folkloric extravagance. I only fault them when it came to the consistency of their footwear (the one in the white socks and Pumas got my "Fashion Fail" vote). Parade of Nations Fashion Grade: B+



Middle East:

Oman: The men wore traditional Omani robes (dishdasha) and headdresses (muzzar and kummar) which is fine but who really stands out is that woman in the royal blue with gold trimmed traditional ensemble. She ROCKS! Parade of Nations Fashion Grade: B



The Fashion Miss and Mr. Hottie of the London 2012 Summer Olympics Opening Ceremony Are: 

Paraguay: Take a look at her! Paraguayan athlete Leryn Franco (she specializes in the javelin throw) is WORKING her cap-sleeved wrap dress, above-the-knee and more importantly, THAT plunging neckline. And need I add that she's GORGEOUS! She became a HUGE internet sensation during the 2008 Beijing Olympics and well, her stock is still WAY up after Friday night's appearance. She stole the "World's Sexiest Athlete" show. Even in those sensible ballet flats she could still STEAL YOUR HUSBAND. She wins my unofficial "Miss London Summer Olympics Parade of Nations Hottie".

Fiji: Finally, I have to give a title to a man. And boy is this A MAN. When the Parade of Nations happened on Friday and they got to the F's and Fiji came up, I could not focus for TEN minutes after that. This is who was holding the flag: 5' 9" tall Hottie McHottie Josateki Naulu, a Judo Olympic Athlete. Look at that body, the arms, the chest, the abs. Only Josateki could make wearing a grass skirt look SO manly. I wonder if he realizes that after Friday night's appearance, he will soon be the Poster Boy for Every Gay Hot-and-Sexy Body Blog. Mr. Naulu, you sir, are my "Mr. London Summer Olympics Parade of Nations Hottie"



Happy Summer Olympics!!!