Fashion Trends: The "No thanks" List

For one reason or another, I love some fashion trends, and do not care for others.  Sometimes, I will try something I previously thought was not good look for me, and changed my mind, but for many they never make it to my closet.  Here are a few trends this year that I have ignored (at least, so far). 

1. The Romper

There are so many things that I do not like about this trend. When I see rompers, often times they look like outfits for toddlers. I do not think It is a mature look.  When was the last time you saw a professional woman wearing a romper?  Finally, my body has a pear shape, and that is not a romper kind of body.  They do not look good on me.  

2. Ankle Boots

This may just be a preference because I do not like wearing things that add bulk to my body, but seldom have I seem a an ankle boot look that I loved.  Even on these models above, the ankle boots are adding bulk where you don't need too!  Also, boots are a cool/cold weather look, yet because these boots are ankle boots, people are wearing them in the summer.   Don't their feet sweat all the time?  

3. Animal Prints

This is one trend that I may change my mind on (and I do not hate the tops pictured above), but for now, I am not a fan. The word "Cougar" has become a common phrase that refers to an older woman looking for a younger man.  Whenever I see a woman wear animal print, I can't help but think of it.   I especially hate when we turn the animal print into colors that are not orignal to the animal, (especially neons).  And If you are going to wear an animal print, pick one animal.  Don't wear more than one print at once- even if they are on the same top (like the sweater above).  

Are there any trends you could live without? Why?

Meredith

Fashion Trends: Bubble Necklace

You may recognize this necklace.

The Bubble Necklace

You may know it most from JCrew where you can buy it for $150.  I bought mine from Ebay, where it is an imitation, but much cheaper. You can also buy it from Amazon here- where its much cheaper.

I had seen it so many different places, including J's Everyday Fashion, Putting me together, and High Heels and Bubble Gum.    When I decided to get one, I bought a red one- thinking it would add a splash of color to my outfits.  Soon after I got it, I bought it in black. I love the black one even more- it is more versatile than the red one.  Besides, I wear a lot of black based outfits and the necklace easily fits into those as a statement piece.

Here is a great example of when the black necklace has come in handy-- the first outfit seemed pretty color saturated already.  Using the black necklace to tie in with the black boots just topped it off. In the second outfit, the patterned top was pretty busy and when I added a colored necklace it got lost. The black necklace gave a focal point to the outfit.

Outfit Details: 
Turtleneck: Khols
Necklace: Ebay
Skirt: Khols  or similar one 
Boots: Macy's or similar ones

Here is how I have worn the red necklace. (forgive me for these pictures- I took this with my laptop at work). The red necklace added the right punch of color to both of these outfits.

Now, before you go and buy this necklace in all of the different colors, there are a few variations that you might want to consider.  Here is one of my favorites.

This turquoise necklace has a thicker weave than the bubble necklaces, but the color is a great addition to so many outfits.  I love the way it pulls together this grey and white striped shirt with a grey cardigan.  (Besides, Turquoise has been a great color this year!)  I got one of these on ebay here. 

Here are a few other statement necklaces you should consider adding to your wardrobe.

From the Red Dress Boutique

Found on Ebay

Found on Ebay

Thats all for now!  Have a great weekend!
Meredith

Let's start at the beginning

So many of us have a passion for fashion.  But often times, fashion is expensive!  and its hard to keep up with the trends without blowing your  budget.  For me, my husband is a graduate student, and I work in ministry.  So my income is not very large, and most of that goes straight to his tuition payments.  Even though I may not be able to finance a luxurious closet, I can do some good bargain hunting and make the money that I do have count!

I hope that as I write and develop this blog, that it is full of outfit inspiration, and helps give you ideas of what kind of pieces you can get to fill in the gaps in your wardrobe.