Category Archives: Street Style

Beauty, Blogger Style, Fashion, Spring, Street Style, Summer, Trend Report

Spring: The Season Where Simple Meets Sexy

January 29, 2017 Liberata Leave a comment

When it comes to my overall look, I have spent the last 4 years of my life going to every possible extreme to achieve one thing- long hair. Not just long hair, but full, luxurious, head-turning bombshell hair. Which is ironic, since I spent most of my life with that very thing. And yet, all it took was one chemical cut to quickly (and quite dramatically) humble what I had taken for granted. If you have ever been through a chemical cut, I promise, I will buy you a drink the next time I see you. Because after my experience, it is my firm belief we deserve a badge of honor to survive an experience so horrifying. Or, at the very least, the phone number to a support group.

But back on track here.

Fast forward to these last few months. Finally, I had long hair again.

And I couldn’t stand it.

I felt like a prisoner to it. Everything revolved around it. And the time it took to maintain it. Or rather, the time LOST to maintain it. Now, to be fair, most of the excessive maintenance was due to extensions. Which, if done right, are an awesome way to grow out your natural hair while maintaining its integrity. Which is exactly what I had done. And will probably do again. But when the time came to tighten my extensions, I found myself eagerly anticipating their removal. For good.

Not only did I need some simplicity back in my already overwhelming schedule, but I wanted people to actually see ME. Because when you have a long, full mane of silver hair, the attention tends to go there. And that was no longer okay with me.

I needed to be free.

So I chopped it. Not quite all of it- I’ll always be more Barbie than G.I. Jane. Instead, I opted for an angled bob- a bold cut that would still scream “bombshell”, thanks to a few well placed curls, and would work well with my signature side part.

What can I say? There’s just something mysterious about a long bang that swoops mischievously over one eye…

And the final result was nothing short of love at first site. It was short, but still sexy. Provocative, but still chic. And not to mention hella flattering.

But more importantly, it was SIMPLE.

So that got me thinking about the rest of my routine. If longer doesn’t necessarily mean better, then maybe less really can mean more, too? For instance, is contouring really all that necessary? Does a smokey eye always have to be dark? Fortunately for me, my questions came at the perfect time. Because after seeing the beauty trends dominating the runways for the upcoming Spring season, I already had my answer.

So get excited dolls.

Because we’re about to lighten things up. Without losing impact.

Too good to be true, right? Well…. read on and decide for yourself.

And with that, lets get in to the good stuff.

So if you’re an avid pallet collector, you already know peach will be major for Spring (Kylie Jenner pretty much slayed the entire game in this area). And for good reason. This light and playful shade is the perfect alternative to the bold red lip you’ve been rocking all winter. But don’t stop there. Because of its barely there tone, this is the perfect shade for the monochromatic look we all know and love. Pick three different shades and go from dark to light, starting from either the bottom or the top. Lids, cheeks, lips. Gorgeous, flattering AND low maintenance- can I get a “Hell Yeah”?! And of course, the monochromatic trend is perfect for any shade (as seen on Gigi below with violet), so get busy experimenting. Just not right now. Because I’m only getting warmed up.

So while we’re on the subject of pastels, its time to talk about what’s probably my favorite trend to look forward to- pastel eyes. Remember my question about smokey eyes? Someone was already ahead of the game here. And while a brooding smokey eye will always be sexy, you can pack away the black- at least, until fall. Same for the Cat Eye. Instead, I present the Kitten Eye in its place (see what I did there?). Same concept, yet totally refreshing. And playful. And romantic. Candy pink, peach, lemon, baby blue- they all work. Which means there are literally endless ways to express yourself through color. Besides, I already know you’re a badass. But that shouldn’t make you afraid to show your girly-girl side too. And this is literally the perfect combination of BOTH.

But lets say you DO want a dark smokey eye. I get it. I understand the power of it. Like date night- nothing says “come hither” like a sultry and smoldering lid. Just lighten up with it to keep with this trend.

But enough with the eyes. Because its important to note that a simpler routine doesn’t always have to mean a simple statement too. Which is why I’m so excited about this next one, which is all about playing up your cheeks. But in a fun, yet totally unique, yet incredibly show-stopping way. And if you are anything like me- then you like that shit. So you’re going to love what is being referred to as the “blush bomb”. Simply put, this trend is all about keeping the rest of your face neutral, and adding a bright burst of color on and above your cheeks. I know, right? Just when we thought we’d run out of things to try. Now I’m not suggesting this one for the office, but I AM begging you to give it a trail run on your next girl’s night out. Lavender and bubblegum pink tones are perfect for a playfully shocking punch, but coral or red will knock them dead. Fortunately, you’ve got plenty of time to try them all.

And with that, my next Spring trend takes us from one end of the spectrum to the other. And while I’m not necessarily as excited about this one as the previously mentioned ones, I do have to admit that it grabbed my attention. If you’ve already looked at the image below, you can tell something is… missing. Mascara. And its oddly beautiful. Somehow the bold lip makes up for it, and balances out a bare eye, making everything look effortlessly beautiful together. And with that, I’d say its definitely worth a try. Especially if you’re running late one morning.

And that leads me to another adored trend. I almost didn’t add this one because while it LOOKS simple, it also happens to be the most complicated one (in my opinion). I’m talking about No-Makeup Makeup. Also referred to as the biggest lie you’ve heard since you were told Santa wasn’t real. BUT, it does look amazing. And also tends to be a favorite with men. And lets face it- while its sweet to hear, we really don’t care if they still love us without our makeup on. And, actually, come to think of it, that might be the biggest lie since Santa Clause…

But back to the point. So while this look is far from “simple”, its certainly stunning. And the perfect excuse to go all out with your favorite highlighter. Not that you ever needed one anyway.

And remember- anyone who looks flawless, yet says they’re not wearing makeup, is a dirty, dirty liar.

And finally, it wouldn’t be fair now to talk about nails. I know all too well how easy it is to gravitate to electric colors. For me it seems the higher the temp, the brighter the shade. And that’s okay. But here’s a unique little twist to try with your next mani. Simply put the focus on your beds instead, and leave the actual nail itself nude. Its literally the perfect metallic pop that will pretty much work for any occasion- and that itself is worth loving it for.

But regardless of what trends you want to try, its important to remember that Spring is the season for rebirth. And maybe that’s why I love it so damn much… After all, its hard not to be inspired to try something new when there’s so much new around you- from baby birds hatching to new flowers budding.

So don’t ever be afraid to reinvent yourself.

And don’t ever be afraid to bloom.

And take a few minutes to look at not only the beauty that is around you, but at the beauty that is inside you.

Whether you do that through pastel eyes is up to you.

Till next time, dolls…

X

Fall Fashion, Fashion, Street Style, Trend Report, Winter Fashion

Flashback Fall

October 2, 2016 Liberata Leave a comment

I’ll admit, finding inspiration to write about fashion has been hard lately. Even with waves of Fashion Week’s taking place around the globe, I struggle to find that one new trend that really stands out. The key word here being “new”. And while its true that fashion always repeats itself, I fear we may be stuck on a skipping track…

Fashion has somehow become stuck in the 20th century.

Take the 90’s revival that’s happening right now. Or rather, has been happening. For the past 3 seasons. Its painful enough to look back on my fashion “moments” in high school, so I’m pretty much the last person in a rush to relive any of them. Not to mention its beyond amusing (and slightly annoying) to watch today’s teens load up on Nirvana shirts considering most couldn’t even name one of their songs if you asked them. I know this, because I have. One even asked who Kurt Cobain was…

Seriously- I swear on my Starbucks.

But before we get carried away with everything that was wrong about the 90’s, lets skip the PTSD and talk about some of the things that were oh so right. After all, there has to be something about the era that makes it so hard for us to let it go, even if we only revisit it one trend at a time. So instead of turning to the runways for the same predictable fashion forecasts this season, I turned instead to my own personal experience- and remembered the things about the era that molded me into who I am today.

Like Supermodels. As in, the original Supermodels. The term alone oozes global domination, and this was THE decade where legends were made. Cindy, Kate, Claudia, Naomi, Helena…just to name a few. These women were not only catwalk perfection, they were our original #SquadGoals. Never again will we see such a reign of naturally striking beauties, as Supermodels have now been replaced over time by a constant rotating barrage of “It Girls” instead. George Michael’s Freedom is now Taylor Swift’s Bad Blood. Revlon’s Cindy Crawford is now Maybelline’s Gigi Hadid. GUESS’s Claudia Schiffer is now Balmain’s Kandell Jenner. Beautiful? Sure. But ICONIC? Sorry girls… Not. Even. Close.

But speaking of It Girls, the 90’s did have some of the most notable when it comes to original fashion. After all, these are the very looks everyone’s trying so hard to replicate today. And this was way before celebrity stylists really became a thing. So its worth noting that these ladies were the ones who truly brought them to life in the first place.

Like Kate Moss. Her campaign with Calvin Klein was really the first nudge towards the super slender models we’re used to seeing today. Almost boyish in figure, who can forget her next to “Marky Mark” (that’s a whole other subject….). Not only was it brilliant, it would also mark the beginning of the androgynous look dominating today’s modeling industry standards for runway.

And then there’s Courtney Love. For those who still don’t know (and believe me- there are still plenty that don’t…. ), Courtney was married to Kurt [Cobain]. As a couple, their “IDGAF” fashion attitude would create and ignite an entire generation of grunge. But the real beauty with these two is that they weren’t even trying to make a statement. In fact, quite the opposite. Polar opposites of the aforementioned Supermodels, they defied the then current beauty standards by doning torn slip dresses, flannels and dirty hair. Nobody dressed them, or told them what to wear. It was the true, most honest, literal form of “I woke up like this”, and it was amazing, though tragic- drugs probably played a major role in both parties choices of attire. Sadly, Kurt would eventually succumb to his use, leaving behind only his music and personal style as an influence for many generations to follow. I often wonder if he were around today, would he still be committed to his perfectly imperfect ensembles? I’d like to think so.

So next time you want to rock a Nirvana t-shirt, understand that what you’re wearing deserves more significance than just another passing trend. Its more than just “cool”- Its a nod to both fashion and musical genius.

But if we can thank Courtney Love for the slip dresses that have remained so prominent this year, then its Drew Barrymore who deserves all the credit for the revival of the babydoll. THE 90’s Flower Child of sorts, she embodied a girlier, prettier, more feminine version of grunge by incorporating soft touches like daisies and red lips into her trademark style. With her wild, impulsive nature, she was her very own fashion muse, perfectly balancing chunky Doc Martin’s with a crop top and a peace sign.

So when you think of the 90’s from here on out, this is what I want you to picture…..

But it was certainly more than just the It Girls of the era that makes this generation so enticing and influential. Much like today, television played a huge role in visually defining the generation and time-stamping the 90’s style. But there were 2 shows in particular that would become part of our visual fashion bibles, often dictating what we would wear to school the next day- Beverly Hills 90210 and My So-Called Life. So when you need some style inspiration, forego the fashion magazines and have a Netflix binge night instead. Not only are they accurate examples of all that was major, they’re HELLA good. The only remaining question will be- Team Brenda or Team Kelly?

And while your getting your Netflix and Chill on, you cant forget the about the holy grail of 90’s fashion- Clueless. Not only would this movie ignite a passion for pleated mini skirts and matching knee high’s, it also gave us our first glimpse at what a “real” wardrobe would look like- I’m pretty sure I even asked for a rotating closet for Christmas that year. Plus, the slang alone is worth the watch.

So while there are a lot of things from the 90’s worth leaving behind- scrunchies, frosted tips, and pretty much everything The Spice Girls wore– there were some pretty major trends that are certainly worth investigating again. At the very least, Halloween is right around the corner, giving you the perfect excuse to slay it as Cher one more time.

But please, above all else, remember THIS: If you want to show your love for the 90’s by rocking a band t-shirt, go for it! But have some respect and do your homework first. Or you’ll go from on point, to poser, real quick. And that’s never a good look.

And finally, while the 90’s were great, I’m excited for the trends still yet to come. And beyond ready. If you’ve been paying attention to the Fashion Week’s in NY and Milan, you already know SS/17 is looking pretty damn amazing. So enjoy the grunge resurgence while it lasts. It may be a long, long time till we see it again.

Yeah, I know-

As if.

X

Blogger Style, Bohemian, Fashion, Gypsy Soul, Street Style, Summer, Trend Report

Summer Style: Sexy or Sweet?

June 7, 2016 Liberata Leave a comment

Every time summer rolls around, I find myself having the same fashion debate with myself. But before we get into that, let me explain my thought process…

A season already known primarily for how little one wears, it makes what few articles you do actually adorn yourself with all that much more important. But summer is bigger than just bikinis. Maybe not to men, but for you… it’s a season that evokes feelings of innocence. Freedom. Adventure. No doubt all nods to your childhood, when all you needed were your friends, a pool, and a few stolen cigarettes (that none of you were ever brave enough to inhale). But more importantly, remember how careless you felt about… well, pretty much everything? Remember how good it felt to get wet and not care about your hair? Or when the time that the street lights came on was more important than how shiny your face had gotten? Because the only makeup you needed was your summer tan (those were still considered fairly safe to have then…).

It was pretty amazing, right?

Life was simple. “Calories” was just a weird word your parents used. And boys were dumb. And while maybe not everything has changed since then, most of us face a much different reality today:

Life is only as simple as you make it. Calories are fucking evil. And most guys are still generally pretty stupid.

So with all the pressures our adult lives will no doubt bring- like bad dates, bills and cardio, why are we purposely doing the same thing to our style? Why are we still rushing to grow up? So what if we’re adults? If there’s one way we can keep that young innocence about us, even if its just for a little longer, its through fashion. I’m not saying you have to go all Lolita on everyone. But maybe chill with your summer sexbomb arsenal for just a minute? Stop thinking about whats going to slim what area. Don’t worry about what Becky’s going to think. And dress for the moment. For summer.

For FUN.

There’s a quote I heard once. Maybe from the movie Vanilla Sky? But I’ve loved it, as its one of the purest yet simplest truths I’ve heard-

“Never lose your childish enthusiasm and things will go your way.”

So why shouldn’t we apply this same theory to what we wear as well? Why not reconnect to how it felt to get ready with the only purpose of attacking the day before us, and any adventure it might bring? Sure, you don’t get a summer vacation anymore, but you do have days off. So enjoy them with that same reckless energy. Get all “young, wild, free” for a day. Cause it will be back to Boss-mode and Spanx on Monday.

When I look at my own style, half of me wants to be the vampy bombshell, suggestively displaying each curve to provoke just the right amount of hysteria from the opposite sex. The other half wants to be the innocent, girl next door type who’s down for anything. You know who I mean- the doe eyed girl that loves ponytails, sundresses and America.

But what I actually am is somewhere right in the middle. A perfect balance of sexy and sweet. Provocative, but girlie. What I wear is merely the determining factor in which direction I feel like going that day. And when summer rolls around, the girl next door side just seems to win a lot more often.

And that’s where my original question comes into play. Sometimes I have to remind myself that summer is supposed to be a season of fun, regardless of age. A season of long, lazy days at the beach. Cocktail filled nights with friends. Steamy dates with boys. And with all that, who has time to worry about much else.

So throw on some heart shaped sunnies. Wear pink. Dance. A lot. Makeout even more. And give your inner Power Bitch a break. Be the Badass Girl Next Door who isn’t afraid to get wet. Or to lose a little control. We both know you’re gorgeous either way.

So go ahead. Dive in.

Happy Summer Dolls…

X

Beauty, Blogger Style, Bohemian Babe, Fashion, Gypsy Soul, Polyvore, Spring 2016, Street Style, Trend Report

White Hot

May 9, 2016 Liberata Leave a comment

If there’s one thing that fashion and beauty bloggers have in common, its probably our fear of white.

Personally, I’ve successfully avoided the color for years now. For no other reason than I’ve never been able to keep anything I’ve put on that was white to actually remain white through out the day. And if I ever needed a reminder, any guy I’ve dated that was dumb enough to wear white with me could provide it. Really- you guys should know better by now. Bottom line, I’m a high maintenance girl.

Yeah- I said it.

Between bronzers, makeup, tinted lotions… you get the point. But besides all that, I’ve never really felt like I was missing out on much. I spend most of my mornings dutifully adding and applying color to myself- why then put on something completely devoid of it?

So again, I never felt like I was missing out on anything… until now.

Its no shock with summer around the corner that white is once again having a moment. But its different this time. There’s something sexier about it. It feels bold. Refreshing. Even… powerful. Or maybe it just took me this long to realize what a brave color it is to actually pull off. And I’m not referring to the dirt factor. I mean that it truly takes a certain level of confidence to wear white because it offers no other visual distractions from… well, you.

How’s that for deep?

But back to the point. Going back to Spring’s Fashion Weeks, white was actually a big factor. Everyone from Balmain to Balenciaga to Chanel to Ralph Russo featured stunning all-white looks in their collections. But we got so caught up in vibrant prints and insane accessories, that they never got the credit they deserved. Don’t get me wrong- we’re still every bit obsessed with prints. And accessories. Especially accessories. But sometimes its nice just to give “extreme” a rest, and stand out with a clean, monochromatic look instead.

white hot summer spring fashion liberata dolce bohemian style balenciaga — Balenciaga

Balmain

white hot summer spring fashion liberata dolce bohemian style greg lauren — Greg Lauren

white hot summer spring fashion liberata dolce bohemian style — Roberto Cavalli

And don’t worry if white’s still not your thing. There were actually a few colors that had exceptional monochromatic moments that I only recently revisited. It took about a second of fashion boredom for me to look back at my archives and suddenly I felt re-inspired. Inspired by simplicity, of all things. The simplicity of eliminating the frustration of successfully mixing prints in my life (even if it was only for a day).

The simplicity of making a statement by not trying to make a statement at all.

The simplicity of reducing any further complications- because sometimes, life is hard enough.

But above all….

Lela Rose Fashion Show Ready to Wear Collection Spring Summer 2016 in New York

….the simplicity of wearing any single, solid color simply because its gorgeous.

Or because it makes you feel amazing.

And who doesn’t need a little more of that in their day?

So next time you feel like you’re in a fashion rut- just stop. Stop all of it. Take a step back. And keep it simple. Don’t over-complicate something that should be a natural reflection of who you are. And who knows… you might just surprise yourself at how fabulous you really are. With or without prints.

X

Blogger Style, Fashion, Polyvore, Spring 2016, Street Style, Trend Report

Spring ’16 Fashion Sets

May 4, 2016 Liberata Leave a comment

Many of you are already aware of the fashion playground known as Polyvore.

For those not yet familiar, I’ll explain. And apologize in advance. As it will quickly become your new favorite addiction.

Regardless of your creative passion- interior design, fashion, beauty- Polyvore allows you to create your very own personalized sets and collections of whatever you desire, however you desire. The more you create, the higher you rank. And the higher you advance through different levels, not only do you gain more exposure (literally all over the world), but you could even earn the chance to go to Fashion Week.

Not a bad deal for doing something you already love, right?

But why do I really love it?? Much like taking notes while studying, Polyvore allows me to visually map out my observations and predictions on current and upcoming trends while giving me the opportunity to test my own style ideas. Not to mention the designers and brands I discovered as a result is a reward in itself.

Its kind of like playing dress up, but with virtually anything you want. Plus, its no secret I’m a bit of a shopping addict- so this is extremely useful in satisfying those inconvenient cravings.

And by inconvenient craving, I mean more like a constant urge until the day arrives that I can afford to walk into Bergdorf Goodman and buy everything.

Literally, ev-ery-thing.

But until then, there’s Polyvore.

And I love you for it.

Scroll through and click on each of my following sets for Spring 2016 to understand why….

#BombshellCode, Beauty, Blogger Style, Bohemian, Fall Fashion, Fashion, Gypsy Soul, Prolific Quarterly, Spring 2016, Street Style, Trend Report, Winter Fashion

Its The Little Things…

March 23, 2016 Liberata Leave a comment

With another wave of Fashion Week’s coming to an end, I found myself really questioning what it is exactly that inspires and motivates designers. What separates their collection? What makes a look personal? Legendary? Iconic?? Because when you really think about fashion, like art, it’s really just another form of expression. So ultimately, what we’re seeing in a collection is a reflection of the designer themselves.

And out of all the fall collections this season, it was Chanel that struck me the most. Karl had once again outdone himself with a collection that gave a glamorous nod to the old school salon days. But it wasn’t just the clothes that had me in awe- it was everything. It was every minor little detail that would make one have to re-watch the entire show just to take it all in. It was the kind of accessorizing genius that made fashion feel fun and exciting again. But more importantly, there was an unexpected playful energy to the collection that was surprising for a historically drab time of year.

Chanel Fall/Winter RTW 2016

Also like art, runway fashion is typically exaggerated. Go big, or go home. With everything. And with that, trends are noted, trend reports are created, “Lust Lists” are made, and more muted versions will eventually trickle into our every day fashion lives come Fall. But that doesn’t mean that’s where the individuality and creativity stops.

No, darling, instead its just the opposite- its where the magic really starts to happen.

Which brings me to my original point of this post- that the presence of one’s style cannot be measured simply in the outfit itself. Anyone is capable of throwing on a LBD and pulling of “chic” for a night. That’s why its the safety net of fashion. Simple. Effortless. Classic. Standard issue.

Okay, great. But what does it actually say about someone? Exactly- not much at all. And that’s fine if you’re someone who prefers to blend. I’m not here to tell anyone how to live their life. But I WILL say never have I ever admired someone for their ability to pull off basic.

But “admire” might be too harsh of a word. Instead, its the ones that put the effort into the details that inspire me. Its the personal twists in accessories that make me see less of the clothes, and more of the person wearing them. It’s the small and tedious things many might just simply lack the patience or imagination for, that another will go all out with just because its who they are. Because its within those details that lie the true personality of someone. Its those interesting little twists that say so much about who someone is, or how they feel, without saying a single word. In other words- in a world full of LBD’s, it’s the small things that play a big role in making you so largely unique.

And isn’t that what we’re all striving for?

For my SATC fans, we know the show was famous for its [sometimes questionable] fashion. But you may remember there were a few pieces that made it through the entire run of the show because they represented the characters so well. Most memorable was Carrie’s necklace- it was such a huge part of her identity, it even became part of the storyline in the series finale.

Now fast forward to today, where the word “basic” is now an insult. Yet its amusing that we do so much talking to express who we are, and yet so little in letting it shine visually. And the best part about accessories? They can be as expensive, or as cheap as you’d like them to be. The price of unique finds is usually based on how much time you’re willing to spend finding them. For instance, if you’re someone who loves to comb antique and second hand stores (me, me, me!!), then you already know the gems that are waiting for you, often at ridiculously low prices. I’m talking cheaper than Forever 21 here. No, really. But what you save in the money department, you will spend in time. At the same time, if you’re someone who loves shopping (Again- me, me, me!!), this isn’t a problem. Though you’ll probably want to go on these adventures alone, or risk being annoyed by the inevitable whining from your boyfriend. But if you’re going for vintage one-of-a-kind pieces, this is the only way to go. Even flea markets have proven to be beneficial hunting grounds. And you can use going to one as an excuse to load up on fresh local produce- even if you only use the aforementioned fresh local produce to make organic mojitos. I wont tell.

Just be sure to make on for me….

Now its important to note, combing vintage stores is only good for collecting. You cant just go on a mission one day to find a particular piece and expect it to be hanging out at the antique store down the road. Accessories aren’t ice cream- it doesn’t work like that. Instead, these adventures are for “building”. They’re for days when you have some time to kill, an open mind, and you can simply look with no pressure for items that speak to you. And only you. I cant explain it other than, you’ll know it when you see it. Some of my favorite finds were completely unexpected, yet once they came into life, they made me question how I could have ever been “me” without them.

But accessorizing isn’t just about the actual accessories, but rather in how one uses them. Which brings me to my next point- literally anything can be an accessory when you’re creative enough. Think of how boring fashion would be if we only used things as they were originally intended? One example of this I think we can all remember would be Lady Gaga’s meat dress. Though I’m still not sure what the final verdict was on her daring choice (Did we love it…? Hate it…? Eat it…??). The point is, she took something conventional, and made it unconventional. She turned heads and made a major statement using something many of see every day. And while you don’t have to go as far as using actual food (please don’t use food) you can add major impact in other ways.

Example: A few days ago I was styling a shoot. I had the sudden idea for a particular look, but didn’t have the wardrobe with me to support it. Knowing that there was a secondhand store right below us, I ran down with my “I’ll know it when I see it” mentality. Within 5 minutes I discovered a silk scarf, and 5 minutes after that it was tied effortlessly around my model’s torso as a top. Going off pure instinct, it was the perfect addition to an outfit that was already a huge risk- and it all paid off beautifully. It became one of my favorite looks for the day, mostly because I know without a fact that look is 100% unique, born from a idea that was in my mind at the time- and there’s a lot of pride in that.

But every day can be like that if you’re willing to put forth the effort. There’s no photoshoot required for you to treat the entire world like its your personal runway. Because IT IS. And I need you to pay really close attention to this one- you don’t need to be a model to dress like one. You got that? You don’t have to be Lady Gaga to make a statement. You can do it every day, all day, in every unique way you can think of, and for any reason you feel like.

Like button-downs. Basic, boring button-downs. Someone woke up one day, looked at a button-down, and thought “What if I put this on backwards…?”. And so they tried it.

And it worked.

Then someone else took their button-down and thought “What if I tied the arms and turned this into a tube top…?”.

And that worked.

And so on…

You get my point here? Like the Field of Dreams of fashion, you just gotta build it.

So next time you feel like you have “nothing to wear”, or you’re bored with whats in your closet, just stop. Step back. And really take a look at what you have. There is nothing more exciting to me than the challenge of being able to create virtually any look I’d like with just a few well thought out pieces. Or wearing something in a way I never thought of before. Or pairing one piece with something totally unexpected. But that’s the trick- you have to care. You have to make the effort. You have to be willing to take chances. And you have to be willing to get it wrong sometimes. Because there really is no wrong when it comes to style, as long as you feel good about you.

Because at the end of the day, that’s all it should ever really be about anyways.

X

Beauty, Blogger Style, Bohemian, Fall Fashion, Fashion, Gypsy Soul, Polyvore, Prolific Quarterly, Street Style, Trend Report, Winter Fashion

BTS With Lorraine Castle

February 15, 2016 Liberata Leave a comment

…

What started as a simple collaboration between two local artists….

…would ultimately turn into a published adventure.

…

I first met Lorraine back in September. Having just relocated here, she was anxious to dive back into her first love and natural given talent- photography. And after just one look at her prior work, I was happy to help in any way I could. Together, we decided that a beach shoot made the most sense. Bohemian, natural, fashion forward…basically, everything I love. And living by the beach year round, it should be noted that bohemian is more than just a passing trend. Here, its a lifestyle. An attitude. Both of which I LOVE to shoot, as it speaks easily to my natural born gypsy soul.

Fast forward to a very unnaturally cold day in October. Remember- this is Florida. Anything below 70 is considered miserable. But not only were we dealing with chilly temps, but the wind was flat out unbearable. Especially for a shoot. For instance: blonde hair + red lip gloss + high winds = I. Cant. Even.

Unless you want to miss out on shooting one of the most beautiful series, thanks in part TO the wind.

We sure as hell didn’t.

So we powered on. And thanks to Lorraine Castle, made editorial magic on a less than magical day.

Now, because I’m a straight up hustler when it comes to achieving my goals in life, I decided to take our work one step further. Lorraine’s work was too beautiful not to. And so I took a chance with a publication that had featured some work of mine before- Prolific Quarterly. But I wanted more out of the experience than just to simply be published- that goal had already been achieved long ago. No, darling, I wanted more. I wanted to WRITE. More specifically, I wanted to make a new impact in this industry that would help me advance to the next level. I wanted to piece together an editorial, where I could write about fashion, that would feature my photos. Its kinda like having your cake, and eating it too.

And Lorraine could not have been more supportive. Because without her hard work and dedication to the project, there simply would be no cake. Or in this case, editorial. We narrowed down shots, choosing ones that made sense for the content of the article, while showcasing her talent. She edited. I wrote. And together, created a beautiful editorial that was published in Prolific Quarterly’s Winter Edition. 8 glossy pages that contained so much more than the words and pictures printed on them. Like late nights, freezing temperatures, wardrobe malfunctions, hurricane strength winds, strained eyes, short deadlines…. but above all of that- PASSION. And the belief that is was ALL going to be worth it.

And it was.

So thank you, Lorraine Castle- your professionalism and dedication are the reasons many of us strive to work with talented artists such as yourself. Because you help restore the passion and respect in this sometimes questionable industry.

Included is a gallery of some BTS shots, many of which never made it to print, but still command the attention and appreciation of Lorraine’s work.

For more info on Lorraine Castle, or to book YOUR shoot, CLICK HERE.

I hope you all love them as much as I do-

…

Until next time, Dolls…

X

Beauty, Blogger Style, Fashion, Spring 2016, Street Style, Trend Report

That’s A Matte.

January 17, 2016 Liberata Leave a comment

Every now and then, a game changer comes along….

…

Fashion and beauty go hand in hand. And with NYFW just weeks away, we can all admit we’re just as excited to see what makeup artists will dream up to top off the sure-to-stun collections as they set the tone for fashion magic. Working closely with designers, it will be determined whether fresh faces will dominate- or a single feature. Dark lips? Neon lined eyes? Pink pouts? Its all one giant puzzle where the final image has yet to be determined.

But sometimes, just sometimes, it can be as simple as one tiny little revolutionary product. Something totally new that seemed so (up until now) impossible. Convenient AND chic. Glam AND foolproof. Liquid AND matte…. wait, what?

Do I have your attention now?

Good. Because what we’re talking about could be considered the unicorn of lipsticks. The hydrating, pigment packing, couldn’t smudge it if you tried prowess of glosses. We’re talking about… LIQUID MATTE.
I first caught wind of this fairy tale product back in December while in MAC. I was on the hunt for a vibrant purple, perfect for those days when all you need is a dramatic lip. I fell in love with Heroine instantly. Edgy, boldly bright and just a little dangerous- ironically, just how I like my men.

I bought it in both the matte lipstick, and the lipglass. Cause I’m also a girl that likes options. And THAT was when my MAC girl changed my life with one little sentence- “You know, in January, we’re releasing our new matte lipstick… it will be like having both of these products in one”.

Sign. Me. Up.

But fortunately, I didn’t have to wait till January. I hopped over to Sephora next (again, options!) and that’s when I saw it. Or them, rather. 12 beautiful shades in a glorious row of color, pigments bursting. I reached immediately for a beautiful lilac shade. I easily justified that I needed it, as it had more pink than Heroine.

And its been love ever since. My own personal game changer.

Why, you ask? Well, let me just try to explain the significant differences that has left me a lifelong fan.
Lets start with the applicator. Most gloss tubes have a soft, sponge-like end. Which is perfect for that casual smudgy effect. But when you’re dealing with something more permanent, application is crucial. And the tip on these babies is like a built in lip pencil. Its firm, and lets you draw the finest line around your lips, perfectly eliminating any possibility of the color bleeding (red lipstick is famous for this). Then, after lining, you continue to use the applicator as normal to fill in your entire pout. But again, the firmness makes the final process SO much more precise. More dramatic. Trust me, no matter what color you choose, your lips will scream “EXPERT”.

Okay, so now you’ve got it on, and you’re looking fierce. Like always. So again, whats the big deal?

The fact the you will still look just as fierce, even after your first (or fourth) latte. Also worth noting- when you first apply it, your lips will literally feel like silk. And will continue to do so, even after the product has dried- which takes a minute or two. Now usually, anything that needs to dry means it will have your lips screaming for moisture by noon. Again, not so with this. My lips can go practically all day with nothing more than a minor touch-up. And I mean literally one minor touch-up. Not 3. Not wipe it all off and totally reapply it from scratch. Which means you can also stop worrying that you have lipstick on your teeth all day. Or why people never tell you when you actually do?? And just to clarify, its Girl Code to never let a friend leave a bathroom with toilet paper on her shoes, or lipstick on her teeth.

End. Of. Story.

But lastly, lets not forget the most important reason. The reason you’re even wearing it in the first place. The COLOR. Both MAC and Sephora managed to pack so much pigment into these tubes, its hard not to think about the staining disasters that could result. But they wont. Well, after the first minute, of course. And trust me, as a single girl, I’ll happily confess- I drink a lot of lattes, and I kiss a lot of boys. So trust me when I say I’ve done my research for you on this. You’re welcome!

And while Sephora and MAC are not the only ones to carry this new genre of lipstick, they are my two personal favorites for this particular product. Soon to be a cult classic, nestled right along side NARS blush in Orgasm, the only real question remains is which shade will hold the most power in the long run.

Because just like the killer pout you so perfectly applied, this formula is here to stay.

Now go. Head on down to MAC. Or Sephora. And enjoy your latte, lipstick free. And take the poor girl with lipstick on her teeth with you.

#BombshellCode, Beauty, Blogger Style, Bohemian, Fashion, Spring 2016, Street Style, Trend Report

Part 1: Spring Has Sprung….. Almost.

January 13, 2016 Liberata Leave a comment

A look at Spring/Summer 2016- what you need. NOW.

…

I’ll confess…

Spring has always been my favorite season. Never mind the warmer temperatures and longer days. Its so much more than that. Spring represents a time of new. Its as if Mother Nature finally wakes up after another long dull winter, takes a look around, cringes, and starts adding color and life to literally everything.

And you should too.

And what better place to start than within your own wardrobe. But be prepared to make plenty of room for this season’s trends. Cause you’re going to want them all.

You’re probably sick of looking at all those heavy, over-sized, curve-hiding, skin-covering pieces anyway. I AM. And that is EXACTLY why Spring is so damn amazing when it comes to fashion. Textures finally lighten up, giving way for shorter, sheerer options while colors palettes increase. I mean, REALLY increase. In addition to that, dresses become more playful. More girly. More exposed. Think flowing, draping silhouettes that will have you feeling Goddess status. Even the patterns amp it up with bold vibrancy, while accessories become more delicate. And finally, we get to trade the tired feeling of wool against our skin for something more sultry and feminine- silk.

If you weren’t already excited, you are now.

So what trends should you invest in now? If you’re like me, you collect clothes. Like an investor. You don’t shop- you build. You constantly keep your eyes open, slowly acquiring those cant-live-without-pieces to add to your collection. The show stoppers. The game changers. Its a little practice called “Buy now, wear later”. You have an entire lineup of stunners just waiting for the right occasion. Or, in this case, month. In other words:

You don’t buy the dress for the party- you go to the party so you can wear the dress.

#BombshellCode

So with that being said, lets take a look at some of the S/S 2016 trends you can count on to turn heads, no party needed.

1. Lingerie

You read that right. Except we’re not talking about the Victoria’s Secret type- people tend to frown upon you walking around in your bra and underwear. But this trend is as close as it can get. Because this season is all about the return of the slip dress. If you’re the bombshell type, you’re probably use to wearing these. Albeit, up until now, it was only at home when you were feeling casual and that was the best you could do. But now, even running to Starbucks in one is fair game. And a simple adjustment in accessories can take the look straight into night. Or, tone it down and keep it more boho with ankle boots. Because the best part about this trend is the versatility factor. Keep it as glam, or as quirky as you please- you’ll look amazing either way.

Pro Tip: To keep the look extra sexy and authentic, shop vintage. Not only will you score something unique, but the idea of a retro slip is sooooo much more chic.

Below, from top left, Chloe RTW S/S 16, Vintage, and Saint Laurent RTW S/S 16.

…

2. Modern Bohemian- barely there boho meets vibrant tropical prints

Once again, the bohemian trend shows no end in site. And I LOVE it. But this time, feel free to go wild with it. And by wild, I mean prints. Its Boho, but with a twist. Its less about the simplicity of pieces and lace details and more about dramatic details. Like birds. Or at the very least, feathers….

From left, McQueen, Gucci, Valentino and McQueen again (full sized).

But boho is more than birds and feathers right now. Its about embellishment. Whether its patches or patterns, color is key. And lots of it….

…

3. Pleats

If you suddenly got excited when I mentioned flowing fabrics earlier, than this look is all you.

Maxi dresses have never looked so lux. And who would have thought that something as simple as pleat would be the element to take a standard spring staple from comfy to flat out goddess. And the colors are a visual feast for everyone. Get ready to stop traffic…

…

4. Metallics

Accessory lovers, get excited. I mean, even more excited than you already are. Cause you get to have some fun this season. During Fashion Week, we saw everything from the return of spikes, to gloves, to beyond oversized statement necklaces. But one thing was consistent- the use of metallics. Bronze or pewter, they’re both on point. And even better when worn together. So mix it up, or tie your look together with one bold piece. Its all fair game.

Pro tip: NOTHING looks better against metallics than tan skin. But for the sake of safety, skip the tanning bed and hit Sephora instead. Get your golden glow on without a side of cancer.

So there you go, dolls.

These trends should keep you inspired enough to safely secure how you’ll be spending that upcoming tax refund. Personally, mine is pretty much as good as gone… Or at the very least, these ideas will keep you busy until Part 2. But just like everything else, spring will be here before you know it. And its always better to lead the way with fashion. So take these tips, and twist them into your own unique way to express yourself this season. Because just like I always stress, no matter your style, it should always represent you.

So… what do you want to say to the world this Spring?

Till next time…

X

Beauty, Blogger Style, Fall Fashion, Fashion, Street Style, Trend Report, Winter Fashion

Faux Sure

January 1, 2016 Liberata Leave a comment

Fauxbulous, darling.

What? You think a girl that lives in Florida cant rock a faux fur coat? Let me go on record to say that I will risk suffering from heat stroke before I miss out on one of my favorite seasonal trends. And with a little help from my friend Lorraine Castle, you’ll be able to see more on how I pull this off this month in the upcoming issue of Prolific Quarterly.

Part boho, part glam, consider this lux piece THE accessory for pulling off winter chic. It adds just the right amount of edge while complimenting a perfectly put together outfit, chic or casual.

Below are a few of my favorite picks, all available now….

Glam Faux Fur Coat from bebe, $229

My favorite purchase in recent weeks, this coat screams “Boss“. Hitting at just the right length, and with just the right volume, it packs just the right wow factor. AND its cozy. Added bonus- it kind of gives off that Carrie Bradshaw look circa Seasons 1 & 2. Her coat was everything…

Snag it online here- bebe

Wanderess Shag Jacket by Lovers & Drifters, $159

This jacket is literally life. It has that perfect vintage vibe, while the color gives off that “I don’t care” attitude. As you can see, it works perfect with little underneath- literally. So you wont have to give it up when the temperatures start rising again. And why would you want to?

Visit here for info- Lovers & Drifters

Now how can you work this look into your current wardrobe?

Easy…

Any. Way. You. Want. To.

The key here is to balance the heavy texture according with the occasion. I’ve worn my to work many days, draped casually over a short, loose dress. For this style, think Free People- they are iconic for mixing fabrics, like chunky knits with lace. And this stunner, featured in the October catalog is perfection….

But maybe you want to stand out? And who can blame you? After all, fashion is a way of expressing yourself without having to say a word. So turn some heads with color. My personal favorite is a deep jewel-toned green. Its still muted enough to be appropriate for any outing, yet pops…. especially against gray skies.

Or you can go all out. And I know all too well how drab things can get mid-winter. So go for it. Brighten up your day, and everyone else’s.

No one will be mad at you when you look this damn good-

But maybe no matte what the shade, you still feel basic in one hue.

Don’t worry girl- I gotchu too.

Simply break up a monochromatic look underneath with lux patterns on top.

Another way to rock this look- Vintage.

This is for my bohemian babies. The Coachella loving, effortlessly sexy, music queens.

Leather leggings, vintage rocker tee’s, wide brimmed fedoras, flowing lace- you love it all. So a coat that screams 70’s glam is just another one of the many details you adorn each day just to say one thing- You love music AND fashion.

But we’re not done yet….

I’m talking about accessories.

Maybe you just need a touch of added glam for your already on-point outfit?

You’ll be able to add that touch pretty much anywhere you’d like this season. From fur trimmed gloves- elbow length, please- to detailed handbags, nothing is off limits.

But my personal favorite winter accessory of choice is still an oversized scarf. Its perfect to wear all day when you want to say “Boss”, and simple enough to throw on to run errands. The plusher the “fur”, the more dramatic the effect. Don’t forget a flawless red pout to go with.

Head to Anthropologie to score these posh numbers-

One thing is for certain thought- no matter how you choose to rock this trend, be prepared to feel like royalty.

Without the guilt.

Because no matter the trend, it is NEVER a good look when it involves the pain and torture of another for unnecessary luxuries. Especially when there are so many other ways that offer the exact look and feel.

Fashion is just another tool to inspire and empower others. It should make the person wearing it feel good. Strong. Confident.

And those feelings will never be obtained, nor respected, when you have blood on your hands.

Photographer- Lorraine Castle

So express yourself- but express yourself with compassion. Always be sure that the message you’re sending is one you can be proud of.

That never goes out of style.

#BombshellCode

X

Blogger Style, Fall Fashion, Fashion, Street Style, Trend Report, Winter Fashion

All That Glitters

November 13, 2015 Liberata Leave a comment

First off, you should all know this now- I am a sequin whore. And it makes sense with gold being my favorite color. Which also might explain why I’m so obsessed with accessories. And gowns. And have absolutely zero fear of standing out in a crowd. I adore shine. Glitz. Glamour.

“The next day I was in The Village looking for the perfect $7 dress to go with my $300 shoes…”

This quote from Sex & the City summarizes my style perfectly. And it has very little to do with price. Instead, its about the hunt. The desire to find something unique and personal to define…..ME. MY style. Because ideally that’s exactly what fashion should be about. Different and special to each individual. Sure, we have trend reports and fashion weeks to help set the stage for us, but ultimately its up to YOU to put your own spin on things. To take trends and incorporate them into your already existing style. Not to follow the masses. That would make you….a basic bitch. Unless, of course, your goal is to blend in?

No darling. Trends come and go. But style? That’s forever.

And so with that, comes the time of year fashionistas defy limits (if they ever really set any). Because with colder temps comes maximum opportunity to play with and layer pretty much anything. Chunky cable-knit sweaters would be ridiculous in the summer- but a barely there dress works fine in December…. with the right accessories.

Which brings me to my point. Accessories are life to the fashion-obsessed. They are the signature tools that uniquely define, and therefore separate us. And signature is key. They should be bold. Eye-catching. Different. Strategically placed creative spins on classic theories. Or classic spins on modern theories. That’s the creative beauty of the whole thing- anything goes.

SATC is probably one of the most widely known ways things were worn in ways that were considered [at the time] different.

For example, remember the giant, oversized flowers? Exactly. Or when she wore the dramatic ballgown skirt to dinner with The Russian. Or paired one with a Dior tee in the 2nd movie. The odd crown-like headband while trying on wedding dresses? From leather gloves, to fur coats, to headwear, Patricia Field knew how to add a totally unexpected pop to any outfit while maintaining balance.

If you aren’t excited yet by the ideas already running through your head, you’re doing it wrong.

Either way, here are some of my favorite looks I plan to capitalize on over the next few months. With trends already heavy with 70’s swag, we have every reason to cash in on anything that shines. Think over-embellished. Plunging necklines. Come hither boots. Bold prints. And with Christmas and New Years just around the corner, you literally will have zero reason not to shine exactly like the diamond you are…

1. SEQUINS

If you’re a girl that likes to be seen, much like myself, then this is for you. You might not be the first one on the dance floor- but you know how to make an entrance. You like to look, and FEEL, glam. And with the holidays approaching fast, you’re free to wear them anytime, day or night. The key here is balance. For daytime, stick to one adorned piece- a mini skirt, top or blazer. Any color works. But if you’re going to go sequined, go all the way and choose something in a jewel tone. SO. PRETTY! Now for night- anything goes. Free People has a STUNNING collection of dresses available right now. Starting at $98, they are the epitome of perfection. And with their iconic soft neutral hues, low necklines and backless cuts, it will be hard to find a reason NOT to wear them.

Below are a few notable pieces that I’ve personally scored, for ALL budgets:

Balmain for H&M, $199

Forever 21, $38.50

(wear it backwards for a plunging neckline instead)

Free People, Tarnished Gold Tunic ($298) and Sexy In Sequins Slip ($98)

And with mini dresses comes maximum accessories. Any of these pieces can be dressed up or down by adding things as simple as a leather jacket. Or a blazer. Wear thigh high boots. Or add a simple heel. A thicker heel will make it more daytime appropriate. Heading to the office? Throw a pencil skirt on over it. You will literally have zero excuses not to work one of these gorgeous numbers into your daily wardrobe.

2. ITS ALL IN THE DETAILS

Did you ever find yourself looking enviously at women from the past, perfectly put together from head to toe, dripping with lux and class? It was a common standard to be perfectly groomed. From driving gloves to hats, they made a basic trip to the grocery store look like a glamorous adventure. Today, we’re lucky if women put on pants. No, really.

Well this is your chance. Thanks to the rebirth of vintage, nothing is off limits when it comes to accessorizing. Recently I set out to on a mission for such pieces. And for this kind of mission, vintage truly is best. And fortunately for me, I have a gem of a store literally right down the street. A darling shop by the name of Retro Rosie’s, they wont take a thing made after 1975. The owner combs other shops, homes and yard sales to salvage the best of the best. I’m talking items like prom dresses from the 50’s. Shift dresses from the 60’s. Bell bottomed Levi’s from the 70’s. And statement jewelry from literally every era. Bags… shoes… hats… its ALL there under one glorious roof. This place is my nirvana. When I visit, I literally spend hours transforming myself into every generation. Last hull scored me my best finds yet, scoring several sets of white leather gloves, shag wraps and some costume jewelry.

I imagined the gloves had been worn by some fierce glamazon at Studio 54, holding a glass of champagne while dancing with Andy Warhol. Probably not…. but still. I bought them in 3 lengths, planning to wear them all scrunched a bit. Add a few cuffs on top for some extra drama. But I’ll warn you- these are not for those who cannot be without their cell ph0nes for long spurts of time. Touchscreens and glove-covered fingers just don’t agree.

As for the brooches, we’ve discussed this cant-live-without fall accessory for some time now in other posts. But I wanted to add that the beauty of these pieces is you can usually find vast amounts, in varying sizes and colors, for next to nothing. I paid about $8 a piece, picking ones that reflected my personality.

Lastly- SHAG COATS. If there was ever a heaven for these pieces, vintage shops would be it. But they are also the hardest piece to find. Mainly because they get scooped up so quickly. Sure, you can buy a new one online for practically nothing. And you may have to. But if you have the patience, go for authentic. I promise the quality and overall look with be worth it. And you probably wont pay much more for it. I would also advise checking local thrift stores. Same thing- they go fast, but it will broaden the possibilities.

Above I showed you some of the different pieces I’ve collected over the last few weeks. And today I want to try something different. Something more personal. Something that I do everyday with my wardrobe. So I selected a few of the aforementioned pieces, and styled them multiple ways, for multiple occasions. And the best part? Every look was under $500. 1 was even under $50 (thank you H&M!).

The first two pieces were scored at H&M. Available now.

Top $9.99, Skirt $14.99, Vintage Belt/Gloves/Clutch

There’s so much to love about the versatility of both pieces. Wear together for a show-stopping effect, or tone it down with a solid tank or leather pencil skirt.

Next was the ultimate score. The possibilities are endless with this stunner. And considering the dress was just under $40, you’ll have plenty of cash left over to discover them…

It starts off simple enough. One bold number, flipped backwards so the plunge is in the front. A set of vintage gloves ($10), my favorite Chanel cuff ($350) and a vintage clutch is all a girl needs to turn [more than] a few heads.

But I didn’t stop there….

Remember the H&M shirt? Mmmhmmmm….

Perfection.

Now lets edge things up a bit, shall we?

Swap the gloves for a fitted lather jacket. This particular one is vegan leather, from American Eagle (no longer available).

Oh, but you’re fancy, huh? I got you covered too…

My personal favorite look, and the one I’ll most likely rock first-

And for even more style inspiration on both casual and killer ways to rock sequins this season, visit HERE.

So go ahead, dolls…. Whether your look is classic, rebel or bombshell, dare to stand out this fall in the most beautiful way a girl can. AND do it without sacrificing your rent. And don’t forget to show me how you’ll be rocking this trend- tag me in your pictures on Instagram (@LiberataDolce).

Beauty, Blogger Style, Fashion, Street Style

Winter Trend Report- 70’s Disco Chic

October 4, 2015 Liberata Leave a comment

…

Get Your Chic On.

Once again, this vintage look shows zero signs of going away. Instead, this season its more amped. Think less Flower Child twirling in a field, and more late night NYC at the disco.

Think Bianca Jagger.

A regular at Studio 54 (she even celebrated her 30th birthday there, riding in on a white horse), this rocker wifey became the fashion icon of 70’s disco style. Those who haven’t already turned to her for inspiration need to start doing their homework. Now.

Liquid gold replaces delicate lace. Textures are bigger (and warmer) with shag coats and sequence. Bold red lips (tips and tricks on this here) will take center stage in your makeup routine. Gold – including Rose Gold – will dominate accessories. Throw out your skinnies to make room for flares. BIG flares. And jewel tones take over while neutrals take a back seat.

I would include fur, but I HATE that shit. We at LiberataDolce.com will never support, nor endorse animal cruelty. And I would encourage you to do the same.

#BombshellCode

But lets get back to what we DO support:

Like plunging necklines. Remember Amy Adams in American Hustle? Her wardrobe in that movie was literally everything. And this is where girls packing a small bust win. Not that girls with anything over a B cant pull it off. But there is a very fine line between 70s chic and just straight up street. Fashion tape will be required, regardless of size.

We’re also very big fans of bold prints. And jewel tones. On everything. Be brave and mix them. No really- go ahead. After all, the entire point of the 70’s was to make a statement. And YOUR statement should be “I’m a fierce bitch”. Because you are.

And now for my personal favorite- the shag coat. I literally die when I look at mine, wishing for temps frosty enough to wear them again. White is a simple, no-fail way to pull it off, but I encourage you to look for ones with color/prints. I even scored one last year with jeweled shoulders. You can view it HERE.

We also believe in breaking free of fashion ruts (I’m talking about YOU skinny jeans) and breathing life into old favorites (hello flares!). And Free People is your go-to for these. Their Super Flares are so on point, you’ll want to live in them. AND their long enough to wear with a heel.

Lastly- we will ALWAYS support a red pout. While hard to pull off during the summer, I literally sleep in my MAC Russian Red during the Fall/Winter. Red lips scream glamour. Boss. Confidence.

And I already know what you’re thinking- it leaves you looking washed out. Wrong. The wrong shade of red leaves you looking washed out. So head to your nearest MAC counter and let them show you the light. Or red, in this case. As mentioned before, head over to my Beauty page (click here) for tips on the perfect application.

But above all, we believe in the ability of putting your own spin on things. Trends come and go, but who YOU are should be reflected in WHAT you wear. That, my dear, is what we call “Style”. Because Bianca didn’t become an icon by copying outfits she saw on Instagram. She became an icon by following her [fabulous] instinct and wearing what felt right to her. No stylist. No social media. And she OWNED it.

So take these tips, and put your own spin on it. Create your signature Winter look, whatever it may be. Just make sure you do it with lots of gold. And LOTS of attitude. 😉

Now go forth- and be fabulous, you sexy thing.

#BombshellCode

X

“I said ‘Hey babe, take a walk on the wild side'”- Lou Reed

Blogger Style, Fashion, Street Style

Hats Off To Fall

September 28, 2015 Liberata Leave a comment

…

Oh. My. God.

Its here.

And by “it”, I mean Fall. Today is officially the first day of my absolute favorite season. And no- its not for the pumpkin spice lattes either. Personally I think they’re overrated (and gross). Yeah, I said it. Feel free to direct any hate mail to NoOneCares@EspeciallyMe.com.

But here’s why I DO love it: chilly nights, the changing of leaves, fires, sweaters, hot apple cider (spiked, please), scarves, and the return of layering. And really, the return of ALL accessories. From gloves to hats, your style options nearly double thanks to the cooler temps.

Which brings me to my current obsession-

Hats.

I’m also comfortable enough to admit to you guys that this wasn’t always a trend that I was on board with. I thought every hat looked “stupid” on me. Seriously. So much so that I refused to even try them on in public. Now don’t get me wrong- some still do. I will never pull off a baseball cap (and I’m not all that said about it either). But something happened recently. Something amazing. Something so sinfully good I can feel myself biting my lip as I type this.

What happened was….

I stopped giving a shit about what anyone else thought.

And I put on a hat. Except I didn’t just throw it on, while I breezed out my door with that kind of effortless grace that makes you think of Audrey Hepburn. No, child. But I applaud those that can.

Instead, I looked at the things I didn’t like when I had on a hat on. Because as it would turn out, it really wasn’t the hat at all. It never was. It was everything around it- my hair, my neckline, even my lip color. So basically, I learned how to frame it. I learned that a wide brimmed fedora is everything. And that I like my hats cocked to one side, and slightly over one eye. That I like to pull my hair into a big, messy sideknot. That I like a bright, dramatic lip so it pops next to the dark fabric. And that I LOVE pairing a hat with a giant scarf.

Here’s a look at #WhatIWoreToday

Hat by ALDO, Franchetti in black ($35).

And I can tell you that with this look, I get this unique feeling that’s somewhere between “badass” and “glamour queen”. I feel mysterious. I feel confident.

I feel…. put together.

Like a hat was that one final accessory my wardrobe has been ~~looking~~ screaming for. An added element of style expression that can single handedly change the entire tone of one single outfit.

For more style inspiration and looks to try click HERE.

So whether you’re a dedicated hat fan, or new to the game entirely, this is THE season to step outside your comfort zones and take a few fashion risks. For example-

Go oversized and low…

Shooting for a casual look? Go neutral and chic and pair with flares….

Prefer bold and dramatic? Me too. Than monochromatic maroon is all you, sugar…

Or maybe you’re not into the fedora look in general. Don’t worry- I got you. Because knit textures are just as playful and daring. Plus, they give off that kind of effortless vibe that begs to be paired with long, loose waves and skinny jeans…

Regardless of your preference, my last word of advice is this-

Try them all. At least once.

And you just might surprise yourself…

I know I did.

#BombshellCode

X

Beauty, Blogger Style, Fashion, Street Style

Berries, Brooches and Boots…. Oh My.

September 7, 2015 Liberata Leave a comment

My favorite season is literally right around the corner.

Fall.

The season of perfectly pieced together layers. The season of messy updo’s and berry-stained lips. The season of sweaters, scarves, skies-the-limit thigh high boots, your favorite vintage leather jacket, your… I cant.

Because this year, I get to celebrate the arrival of Fall with the success of reaching yet another career milestone- my very own store.

Well, it’s not exactly “MINE”. But its mine in the sense that I am now responsible for every single aspect of its success. No biggie. I mean, come on, you’ve read a little bit about the men I’ve dated. You’ve gotten a taste of my fashion sense. Obviously, it takes a LOT to shake my confidence.

And that’s good.

Because with my new role comes the complete freedom to push work day fashion to the absolute limit. To boldly express myself the best way I know how. The universal language of fearless style that simply says- “I’m a Boss“.

(Honestly, can I get an Amen??)

We all know the proper term for dressing like a professional:

Business Casual

Gag.

Now take whatever outfit you have pictured in your head and throw it away. And don’t ever bring it up again.

Because if the Fall/Winter 2015-16 runways showed us anything, its that business is ANYTHING but basic. Of course, there are always going to be the familiar and iconic seasonal hints of warmer tones (berries/nudes), layered buttery soft textures (leather/fur), and slightly heavier accessories. But this year its more detailed than ever.

Its edgy. Its polished.

Its heaven.

So with that, I decided to share my own personal challenge of the moment. The challenge of building a wardrobe not only for a new career, but for a new season. A visual guide of staples so chic, you’ll wonder how your closet (or you, for that matter) ever survived without them.

Bring it.

In a previous post (See Post Here) I talked about Fashion Week’s most coveted Fall looks. And sure enough, those trends are everything they promised they would be. But we need to break it down even more. Because you’re not just a Fashionista- you’re a Boss. A tiger. A strong independent female who calls the shots. In all areas of her life. In heels. You’re trying to run the world AND look fierce.

#1: LEATHER

Leather leggings are everything this season. I prefer styles that feature more of a motocross look to them- zippers, textured prints, etc. It gives them a slightly more interesting look, and are way more forgiving to anyone who doesn’t have perfect mile long twig-like legs (and honestly, who really does?).

But that’s not only way we’ll see leather this Fall. Fashionistas rejoice- it is now 100% acceptable (and encouraged- by me) to be worn to worn. But keeping it classy is key. I don’t care where you work- looking like you’re heading to a Stones concert probably wont be appreciated. Unless, of course, you’re actually going to a Stones concert. So the trick here is simply a looser fit. That instantly keeps leather more chic, less BDSM.

So maybe leather pants aren’t your thing? Maybe you saw that episode of Friends where Ross tried them on- and it scarred you for life. And that’s okay. I still have plenty of other leather options to help keep you on point this season.

Like skirts. Yes darling, you read that correctly.

Leather. Skirts.

And I cant lie- this is probably one of my favorite fall accessories. And the styles are limitless. Fringed, short, long, adorned, plain, asymmetrical- anything goes. And as long as you’re keeping your proportions (and hemlines) in check, you’ll be able to rock any of these looks to work AND keep it classy-

And of course, I saved my favorite leather piece for last- the always classic, always chic, always perfect leather jacket. The only trick here is to keep it fitted. Don’t be afraid of color either. But black, camel and white all scream 70’s chic while keeping things classy. Collar or no collar- its up to you. Studded or plain Jane? Either is fine.

#2: Blanket Scarves

I’ll be honest. I was one of the first to rock these last winter. And I had a lot of very mixed reactions. Men, of course, were confused- “Why is it so… big??”. I remember one particular date where the guy told me it was “weird”. I’m sure he also found it weird when he never heard from me again. But most people were just curious. And with so many different way to wear them, I cant really blame them. But the best part about these babies is right in the name itself- they literally become blankets if needed. And who doesn’t love that? Plus, if you’re stuck in a blanket scarf styling rut, simply head to YouTube. There are plenty of videos from stylists showing you ingenious new ways to wear them. Here are some of my favorite classic looks for blanket scarf beginners-

#3: Monochrome- Black/White

Okay, seriously. Is there anything more classic than head to toe black? There is now- White. Remember the old rule of never wearing white after Labor Day? Good news- you can now file that in the same place where it says you cant mix gold and silver. Who even came up with these “rules” in the first place?? To me, an all-white look is a symbol of strength. Class. Status. Confidence. Even dignity. No one dares wear white, let alone ALL white, unless they plan to be seen. And heard. The same can be said for black. An all black ensemble screams utter sophistication. Luxury. Power. Regardless of your preference, these two monochromatic looks both deliver the same message- “Look, but don’t you dare touch”.

#4: Grunge Tee’s

You heard me. The chance to mix your inner child and outer boss. Just please- keep it appropriate. In other words, feel free to declare your love for My Little Pony or Guns N Roses. Avoid political messages or personal beliefs. While I’m all for making a statement, one that could potentially offend a co-worker (or anyone, really) is just ignorant. Spread love, not hate- #BombshellCode. So use your imagination. Tap into your creativity. Or musical inspiration. And have FUN with this trend. Jus be sure to balance it out by keeping the rest of your outfit more structured and tailored. This is the key to pulling this one off. Its the perfect combination of quirky and chic by adding that unexpected element of playfulness. And who knows- maybe you’ll catch the eye of another secret Aerosmith fan. 😉

#5: Accessories

My favorite. There is no better investment simply for the fact that accessories are the details that can make or break any outfit. At the same time, they can completely change any outfit. The addition, or removal, can take an outfit from day to night, or vice versa. And chances are, they’re worth holding on to. Because unlike a lot of other trend pieces, accessories CAN be recycled. Often through multiple seasons even. Take the Bohemian movement for example. Many thought it would be over with by the end of summer. As we were preparing to pack our feather cuffs away next to our Coachella ticket stubs, Fall 15/16 came along and breathed life right back into it. Albeit slightly darker. So fear not, gypsy souls. Many of your summer favorites can transition into your fall wardrobe.

#6: Thigh-high Boots

Thigh high lovers- this one’s for you. This season we’ll be shattering sex pot records. Fashion week unveiled boots so high, sometimes it was hard to tell just where they ended.

And I couldn’t be happier.

Wear over leggings, or alone with a dress leaving just a peek of thigh. Avoid looking too disco queen when it comes to material. Flat out leather is best. Anything shiny needs to be kept strictly for outside of the office.

#7: Brooches

Another trend I touched on in a previous post, this is probably my favorite for the season. Its a chance to mix old with new. A chance to personalize each outfit with details NO ONE else will have. And its a chance to comb every vintage store in your area. As if you needed one… But seriously, theres finally a trend out right now that I can honestly say I haven’t tried before. And even better- you can go absolutely crazy with it. That’s the whole point! So grab every brooch you can find. And then plan on needing at least 20 more. And pin them wherever you see fit. Shirts, collars, cuffs- even your hair. The more dramatic and personalized, the better.

And there you have it darlings. A general overview of how I’m preparing for both my new adventure and Fall. And whileits important to pay homage to trends, and embrace them while we can, its even more important to remember that trends come and go. They should be treated as an enhancement to your personal style. Because style is forever. In other words, the most successful fashionistas are ones that take trends, and tweak them to make them their own.

WE wear the clothes- the clothes do not wear us.

#BombshellCode

So have fun. Mix it up. And be fabulous.

But be YOU.

Because the best thing you could ever put on is your confidence.