October 13, 2014October 14, 2014 styledbylyric7 Comments

Bootie-licious

Although it honestly feels like Summer will never surrender here in California, Fall is among us & thus comes my favorite time of year for footwear. The possibilities are endless & designers can get crazy with their creations, but I’m a purist. Give me an amazing pair of booties & a warm latte & I’m set for the entire season. Serious. However, this year’s search wasn’t as peaceful as other seasons & I’m finding that some of you babes are needing some direction in this department, as well. & I’m here to help.

I recently found myself navigating many a department store for the perfect pair[s] & found my options a bit overwhelming in that “I hate this & I’m getting over needing new shoes altogether” kind of way. There were about 45 different styles, colors & shapes of booties, half of which made me look like my legs were cut off at the ankles & I magically became a witch. Hi Halloween, I’m just not that into you. Therefore, I’m here to share my story & my findings in hopes that you won’t have to encounter the same exhausting shopping experience as myself.

Let’s break down my favorite Fall 2014 ankle boots based on shape, color & fit. Here goes…

The Flat Bootie: Sam Edelman is a footwear genius; his designs are versatile & almost always a hit from Spring through Winter. He’s basically the king of the flat bootie design. The perfect example is his ever-famous “Petty-Boot” [my favorite ones yet, in cream], which seriously makes any woman’s legs look phenom in a pair of fitted denim. These babies are comfortable beyond belief, versatile from day to night & are best worn with skirts, skater dresses, & denim [both boyfriend fit & slim//skinny]. Crown Vintage came out with their own take on this same design at an unreal price point & are just as high quality as the Sams. [Take it from someone who owns three pairs of these exact shoes; they’re the best boots I’ve ever purchased.]

The Peep-Toe Bootie: a relatively controversial design, the peep-toe bootie is one of my Fall favorites. Adding an element of sexiness to an otherwise closed-off shape by opening the toe of the shoe is in my opinion, genius. It may seem counterintuitive during cold weather months to expose the foot to open air, but should you live in an element-friendly area I say take this look on full throttle. Best worn with dresses, denim & slacks, this design elongates the legs & puts the entire focus on the foot. Note: be sure to have a good mani; Winter months can be brutal on our toes & no one wants to see that peaking out the front of a cute ass shoe.

*Two of my favorite examples are these DV’s on sale at Bloomies, as well as Kristin Cavallari’s “Layla“.

The Stacked Bootie: I fell in love with this style last Fall & have never looked back. The stacked bootie is great for women on the go, as well as those who have major hips [like myself]. This shape, with it’s wider shaped heel & added stability, makes a busy-work-day-gone-night-out-with-the-girls effortlessly easy. Go for a rounded, extended toe for slendering of the legs. I prefer to keep the colors neutral with this look; greys, taupes, blushes, even blacks & creams work well, but bright vibrant colors can actually add weight to your feet & make you appear large in the ankles. Ew.

*A few of my Fall favorites: The “Conary Bootie” by DV for Dolce Vita [I have last year’s replica of this design in black & taupe & wear them for hours with no issues or pain. SUCH. A. GREAT. INVESTMENT.] That blush color…I mean c’mon. & for my budget babes, the “Flynn Bootie” by Crown Vintage [just purchased these in black 2 days ago] are amazing. The pictures do them no justice at all; they’re chic, comfortable & look amazing with dark & black denim. I plan to live in these this season.

The Moto Bootie: although not quite as popular as they were last Fall, the moto boot is here to stay. Adding a punky element to any outfit, these shoes scream “I’m sexier & more high-fashion than you can even handle.” There are many different elements & takes on this look; studded, strappy, leather, suede, chains, flat, heeled…but the moral is hardware. I do warn my clients//followers that this shoe is relatively masculine, thus it’s best worn with an ultra-feminine dress or fitted pair of denim to offset the gender neutrality. Try an all black ensemble for a hot night out. Best body type for this look: thin legs, small calves.

*My favorite take on this look are these Jeffrey Campbell “Motorama” stacked booties at Nords. I mean does it get any cooler than that?

The Oxford Bootie: so 2014 is the year I finally fell in love with the Oxford. It took me 26 years, but I made it. I never understood this look until Rachel Zoe nailed it with her “Raven Oxfords” & now I’m done for. I find that a dramatically pointed-toe style is the only I will go for, as the other’s feel too masculine & limited. This shoe is best worn with cuffed slacks, boyfriend denim, & loose-fitted dresses. Layer it with a cool leather jacket, a great handbag, & tons of feminine jewelry & your outfit will pummel everyone’s around you that day//night.

*Favorite Fall 2014 examples [besides Rachel Zoe’s] are: DV’s “Verily Oxford” & Shellys Of London “Vossi Vamp Oxford“.

Whether you’re seriously investigating the right bootie for you this Fall or just window shopping, I only ask that you TRY THEM ON. Walk around the store in them, look at all angles & viewpoints of your body in the mirror, & as always, find an outfit that enhances the shoe when test driving them. You wouldn’t actually wear boots with your new lululemons, so why would you try boots on in them? To get the full effect of a new purchase you have to be promoting it realistically.

& lastly, if you don’t feel downright beautiful then don’t even waste your time. Shopping is an investment, not a nonchalant purchase made on a whim. Make your money count & always have fun.

Happy Fall, babes. We finally made it.

Xx.

PS: Here are a few of my absolute favorite shoe shops this season:

August 19, 2014August 19, 2014 styledbylyric1 Comment

Make A Serious Statement

I’m not entirely certain that my lower back pain [currently keeping me bed-ridden] isn’t from sheer excitement over this brand & a possible screaming//jumping//dance party I threw once I found their unbelievable pieces. Okay…overstatement? Yes. But that’s the point isn’t it; making a statement.

Dylanlex has hands down the most detail-oriented, loudest, most beautiful statement necklaces I have ever laid my eyes on. Every single inch of these works of art are meant to turn heads & scream “Hell yes, my necklace does rule.” I don’t even rock silver, but I’m considering trading in my entire jewelry collection to rock the crap out of these babies.

Their price points may stop your heart, but if you take nothing else from this amazing brand, let them inspire you to go out & seek your very own mega necklace [at whatever price point is reasonable for your wallet] in the coming Fall season. You, too, can make the exact statement you wish to make & represent your personal style while doing so. After all, fashion is about creativity & helping you identify that much more clearly who you are & what you love.

Now go scream & shout…or just buy a great new piece that will do it for you & your wardrobe. Xx.

August 11, 2014August 11, 2014 styledbylyric2 Comments

Falling

Phew! What a wild July I had. Yikes. However, I’m back & beyond ready to break down one of my FAVORITE seasons for my dazed & confused fashionistas. As much as I love me a great bikini & some major vitamin D, I’m longing for knit sweaters, leather boots & pumpkin spice lattes. Like now.

To prepare for the upcoming season I’ve picked my favorite Fall 2014 pieces that you’ll want to have in full rotation once the Summer temperatures give. Some of these looks are F/W 2015 runway inspired, but most are from my vault of Fall classics because let’s be real, Autumn is at the very least always all about layers, boots & a great jacket.

Let’s go.

Bah Bah Black Sheep: this Fall we’re going to see some of the heaviest wool knits to ever grace the industry. From a thick waffle stitch, to wool socks & [my personal favorite] pullovers, this season is all about comfort. Some people do however find wool too itchy on the skin, with which I’d suggest layering it over a soft lace or nylon fabric or opting out entirely for a heavy cotton or poly-blend. You may find a lack in quality, but your skin will definitely thank you.

Flashbacks: another fun additive to the coming season are the 70s inspired jackets hitting runways & stores. Big, double breasted, flat collared, & multi-fabric designs are just a few of the styles I’ve been seeing & loving. Lest we not forget the ever-famous moto jacket [such as Free People’s amazing selections: here]. These lighter-weight jackets are perfect for this transitional season into Winter & add a sexy//rocker//chic feel to any outfit.

Psychedelic: the one curious & really interesting trend I’ve seen are the new competitor to floral prints titled “trippy prints”. These bright, geometric, multicolored fabrics are packing serious punch this Fall, but are not for the faint of heart. The major styling secret behind nailing this trend is “less is more”; pair a wildly printed top with a muted bottom & vice versa. Runway to real way can be tricky, so be selective with this one.

Invested: one of my absolute favorite styles making headway this Fall are long vests & layering pieces. They are perfect in place of an old blazer & add a great tailored detail to any outfit. I recommend teaming them with a great trouser, over a printed dress or even used as a bulking layer under a winter jacket. This small touch adds sophistication & class to any look.

Wider the Better: all trends seem to circulate, often taking only a few seasons to make their way back to you. & this Fall is no different, as wide legged pants & denim are back in full force. My favorite colors being blush, taupe, true blue & black, these effortless pants will have you seriously shaming the skinny jean crowd this season.

Get an A: my last [but absolutely not least] favorite style taking names in the coming season are A-line dresses. These seemingly mod, but multi-bodytype-friendly shapes are absolutely perfect for anyone [what?!]. Truth. The shape is flattering on nearly any body or size & can be paired with tights, boots, or even a sexy heel. My only recommendation: watch your prints. Choosing the right color & pattern is everything to perfecting this wardrobe staple.

As promised in Lyric’s mission statement, I will never lead my [blog] followers &/or clients astray. Fashion is meant for everyone, but style is very much personal. This Fall seems incredibly promising as far as styles & versatility are concerned, but should you have any questions about your own personal style feel free to drop me a line & let’s chat! I’m always willing to write a post on a topic that you’re interested in or answer any fashion questions you may have! You can email me at: Dena@styledbylyric.com or use the comment option below.

Happy Layering, megababes. Xx.

July 7, 2014July 7, 2014 styledbylyricLeave a comment

Sexy Sleep

If you’re anything like me, your sleep patterns can change pretty dramatically during the Summer months; with endless heat waves & constant sweating…sleep can seem like more a chore than a place of relaxation. But fear not, for I’ve found one of the sexiest & most unique intimates shops this season, to give you a break from the endless heat [not to mention, your special someone will have to seriously fight to keep their hands off of you].

Muy Bella Intimates is your one stop shop for some of the most detail-oriented intimates, crafted by some of the most creative Italian, Balinese & American designers on the planet. It’s a place for fearless babes with a fearless fashion sense to find pieces that break the mold & help better define their style from the inside out.

I could sit here & talk your ear off about all the reasons why I love this little slice of shopping heaven, but you should just go see for yourself…Happy Shopping, mega babes. Xx.

June 23, 2014June 23, 2014 styledbylyricLeave a comment

Suit Up

So it’s officially been Summer for two days & I’m already seeing teeny bikini’s flooding my news feeds, thus it’s time to take on the ever-terriying subject of: Bathing Suits.

Now, there are some seriously amazing styles leading the pack this Summer in the suit department & designers are getting more & more innovative every day, but some styles simply aren’t meant for certain bodies. Fear not ladies, for I refuse to let you find yourself in a dark corner of a fitting room, drowning your sorrows over a candy bar because you “hate the way you look”. I’m here to free you from any guilt you may have from Winter & be real about your body & what suit is right for you this season. So let’s just do this thing…

We’re going to break down this years best selling suit styles & explain who should be wearing them & why.

Style #1: Classic String Bikini

This style of suit has been popular since the 60s & is going nowhere fast. However, it is not for the faint of heart. The best candidates for these minimalist, triangular pieces are athletes, small-busted women, & long & lean figures. The best part of styling a string bikini is it’s versatility; pair nearly any top with any bottom & you’ve got a show stopper.

Style #2: One Shoulder Suits

Believe it or not this style of bathing suit is perfect for my ladies with short torsos, wide bottom halves & long & lean figures. The solid mid-section elongates the torso [particularly in monochromatic tones], the high cut bottom shows more thigh making the legs appear longer & any added ruffles or embellishments add curves to the places that you want & need. This suit shows added effort without added energy.

Styled #3: The Sport Suit

This style is huge this Summer, particularly with the flux of yoga & athletic wear. Clearly the market for this suit is athletes, but the freedom it allows for activities makes it a perfect candidate for any woman willing to rock a two piece. Other babes that should be snatching this suit up in 2014 are large busted women, as this style gives great coverage & support to the bust without compromising sexiness. & did I mention these suits have some of the BEST color combos.

Style #4: The Cutout

This suit is for women who prefer a one piece, but don’t mind showing a little extra skin. A cutout suit is perfect for large busted, small busted, small torso, wide bottom & long & lean babes. Given it’s vamped but understated nature, the wearer is provided coverage & support, but still able to feel sexy without giving too much away. Think poolside in Vegas with a slushy drink in hand…yeah, it’s that good. Note: the amount of detailing & cutouts should vary depending on the size of your hips, waist & butt.

Style #5: The High Waister

This style is great if you are small busted, large busted, wide hipped, large torsoed, a post-preggo mama, or even athletic, as it sucks you in in all the right places. This is one of the most versatile, comfortable, & flattering styles for the widest range of body types that I have found this season. But being picky & finding the right color & print for your body is everything behind perfecting this look. The height of the waistline should depend directly upon your confidence level & the size of your torso. Thinner torso: lower waistline. Wider torso: higher waistline.

Style #6: The Strapless

This style has been big for about four Summers now, but I think critics are finally finding it’s flaws. The strapless design is great for sunbathing with minimal tan lines, but should you need to participate in any activities, you may find yourself experiencing a wardrobe malfunction [let alone if you are well-endowed]. The strapless concept is much like that of a strapless bra: small busted & long & lean babes should be the only ones sporting this style any longer.

Style #7: The V-Neck

The extended neckline of this bathing suit is great for my pear shaped, large torsos, apple shaped, mommy-to-be, & large busted babes, as this helps highlight one of the most feminine & sleek parts of the female body. Pair this top with the appropriate bottoms or even opt for a one piece & you’ll be beach-ready & more confident than every this Summer.

Style #7: The Bustier

The bustier is exactly as it sounds: for those who need a bit of a boost. All of the small busted, thin torso, athletic & long & lean ladies should be rocking this look all Summer long. It comes in one piece suits or bikinis & will provide amazing support, major sex-appear & allow you to be active the entire time. Note: as mentioned earlier, the completion of this look will be dependent upon finding the right bottoms & cut.

Swimsuit designers will no doubt continue their studies of the female body & what they believe works best, but it’s truly up to you & your own personal style to decide what makes you feel beautiful & confident. There is nothing worse than planning a great vacation or pool party only to find yourself hiding under a towel or beach dress for fear of being seen. Trust your body, trust your instincts & use the tools listed above & your swimsuit fears will subside in no time. But hurry, because Summer’s only here a few more months babes…

Xx.

June 11, 2014June 10, 2014 styledbylyric2 Comments

Shaded

Ever wonder why your best friend can rock a pair of sunnies that will simply never look the same on you? It’s more than likely that she’s honed in on her face shape & perfected the art of sunglass purchasing. I’ve personally struggled with this issue in the past & have had many girlfriends question me on the following topic, so I’ve decided it’s time we take on the fun subject of Sunglasses.

We are all different shapes, sizes, colors & ages [duh] & styles will vary from person to person, but possessing the general abilities to pick & choose fashionable pieces without fail is one of the most important goals for my clients. Sunglasses are not only a wardrobe staple, but for many a necessity & selecting the right pair for your face can be frustrating & costly. I’ve broken down this overwhelming task into two simple steps to help aid in finding you the perfect pair for your beautiful face, without exhausting your efforts.

Step One: Determine your face shape.

There are six different shapes to a human’s face:

Round: less definition in sharp corners or edges, but rather curvatures around the perimeter of the entire face.
Square: length & width are nearly equal across the face, with strong jawline.
Oval: gently rounded & even features throughout entirety of the face.
Oblong: long & narrow in shape with little to no edges, also known as rectangular.
Diamond: narrow jawline & strong cheek bones.
Heart: most narrow part of the face being the chin, widest being the temples & forehead.

Step Two: Know Your Styles.

Fashion is ever-changing, but as of today there are currently eight major styles in eyeglass wear:

Wrap: the Anna Wintour; these shades will protect your eyes & possible hangover without compromising your fashion sense. Wrap sunnies are classic & should be worn to intensely play up the features of the face. However, their heavy frame make for a little extra effort on behalf of your nose & ears. Ideal for oval, oblong, & round shaped faces only.

Square: best for hiding a make-up less face & blocking major sunshine during brunch; these bold shaped frames add intense definition & angle to the face. Ideal candidates: oblong, oval & round shaped faces only, as sharper shaped faces may look too contrasted.

Shield: the motorbike babe; with one simple, single lens, these glasses provide major UV protection. Heart, oblong & round shaped faces are the only ones meant for these bad boys, as the long, curved lines help elongate the face & bring focus to the temples. But as they say, rules are often made for the breaking.

Wayfarer: one of the most versatile pair of sunnies on the planet; with their round lenses, cat-eye temple bars, & butterfly-edged rims, the Wayfarer can be worn by any face shape, however, are better suited on oblong & oval, as the unique shapes bring definition to otherwise shapeless features.

Aviator: the common misconception sunnies; men & women worldwide rock these shades without caution. Unfortunately for them, diamond & square-shaped faces are truly the only ones who should be coveting them so intensely, as their round shape & gentle curves help balance out any sharp edges on the face. Remember: the width of these sunglasses should never be larger than the width of your cheekbones.

Butterfly: the Jackie O sunnies; much like the aviators, butterfly rims help soften intensely shaped faces & features with their flowing lines & corners & add a balanced contrast to unwanted features. Ideal for square & heart shaped faces, as well as those who seriously “Just can’t” today…we’ve all been there.

Cat-Eye: the ever-specific sunnies; meant for heart, oval, & square shaped faces only, as the elongated temple bars add definition to high cheek bones, bright, big eyes & balance out strong jaw bones by drawing attention upward. These glasses say “I know fashion” without having to try too hard.

Round: the serious fashionista[o] sunnies; these babies are not for the faint of heart. With all attention & focus drawn to the eyes, round glasses are meant for square & diamond shaped faces, allowing the cheek bones, high forehead & strong jawline to be softened. Warning: don’t take these on as a fashion experiment, know & trust your instincts.

Adding a fun pair of sunglasses to an outfit can change it’s entire feel, but only if executed properly. Remember, the above tools are guidelines not laws, but I hope they at least ease the stress & frustration of shopping for your new wardrobe staple. With the 100 degree heat attacking the West Coast & shortly making it’s way across the nations, you will seriously thank me. I promise.

Xx.

June 2, 2014June 2, 2014 styledbylyricLeave a comment

Bee Bee Que

I wanted to apologize for being a bit slower on the draw for posts this past month; it appears being a homeowner is much more work than anticipated, ha! BUT I’m back & have some amazing tips for my ladies that want to get down on some major BBQing with their friends, family & men this Summer. Today we take on: The Backyard BBQ Fit.

Rule #1: WEATHER IS EVERYTHING! Always anticipate being overheated vs under; meaning separates & layers are ideal for this event. Depending on your lifestyle & party-habits, this shindig may go all night & you want to be prepared for the evening Summer chill. Always pack a sweater or jacket for the possible late night fire pit hangout & even a pair of sneakers or boots to be sure that you aren’t sitting there freezing your bones off.

Rule #2: Focus on fit & function. Backyard barbecues are for making memories, & fussing with your malfunctioning outfit all night is not going to promote that. Go for simplicity; a fitted [& age appropriate] maxi dress, a fun pair of distressed shorts & a tank, or even a pair of loose fitting printed pants & a cute blouse. Your outfit should be fashion forward, but not so much so that it prevents you from participating in outdoor events & fun. Skirts & short dresses are not ideal candidates for this day; imagine playing horse shoes with a skirt thats blowing up & hair all over the place. Not the look we’re going for…

Rule #3: Be cool & comfortable. This is not the place for Vegas makeup & heels; barbecues are relaxed & easy, & your outfit should follow suit. A simple pony-tail, braid or loose waves are all that you need on this day, not to mention hats are a perfect addition. They’ll provide shade & outfit oomph, but remember hats keep the heat in, so 100 degree weather may not be the time or place. Here are a few of my favorite Summer hairstyles:

Rule #4: Go flat. There is nothing worse than thinking you’ll be the best looking one in the group in your new heels, only to then fall on your face while carrying your purse, plate of food & beverage on the newly landscaped lawn. Not cute. Do yourself a favor & just wear flats. There are so many amazingly chic & party-appropriate styles of gladiators & strappy sandals out there this season that you should have no trouble finding ones that you love. Plus, sandals let the heat out & there is nothing sexy about being the one in the corner with an ice pack on her face to prevent from heat stroke.

Rule #5: Four eyes. Don’t be the one at the party squinting the entire day; bring your sunglasses & be done with it. You can bet your ass someone will snap a few pictures this day & migraines don’t make for cute photo sessions.

Rule #6: Be present. There is nothing worse than being at a BBQ [or hosting one] where everyone is on their phone Instagramming in silence or [my personal favorite] the host is nowhere to be found because he/she didn’t plan ahead. Be a helpful guest & allow your host to enjoy his/her party alongside you not for you. As for those few IG pics, take them upon arrival then put that thing away for the night. This day is about spending time together.

If you follow these few easy steps & rules, I can promise you that you will be having some of the BEST Summer BBQs without compromising yourself or your identity. You worked hard all Winter, now it’s time to enjoy yourself & the ones you love.

Happy Cueing!

Xx.

May 28, 2014May 28, 2014 styledbylyricLeave a comment

OF ONE SEA

Although I’m not one of those people who keeps a baby box or even has visions of my wedding day, I have always dreamed of having my [future] littles running around the sandy beaches of San Diego or Kauai…but dreams they may be for awhile, seeing as my family is located in Northern California & I don’t see us leaving anytime soon. Thus, I take my wishful thinking to THIS site; where I can fantasize about my [future] wavy-haired little munchkins, with sand in their toes & adorable smiles on their sun-kissed faces. Oh & need I mention they have ADULT SIZES, too? Yeah. Count me in.

OF ONE SEA is a surf brand based on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawai’i. Their inspiration comes from the simple forms and beauty found in nature which they aim to translate into comfortable and stylish pieces for the whole family. They remind us through their understated but beautiful stylings & designs that life is about the experience; the travel, the family, the unity. It’s about dirtying your clothes & living a little. Do yourself a favor this gorgeous Wednesday & pop over to their site. If nothing else, it will make you smile.

Xx.

May 15, 2014May 15, 2014 styledbylyricLeave a comment

Brunch Wear

Please excuse my absence as of late, I’ve been working like a maniac on the website so I can finally launch & start better assisting my fashionistas one on one. But for now let’s keep rollin like this…

I’ve been approached a handful of times this week about brunch wear. You know, that time between breakfast & lunch when we meet up with our girlfriends or double date & nine times out of ten sit outside on a gorgeous patio & drink bottomless mimosas until we’re completely sunburnt & sideways? No? Not how you do brunch…? Hm, anywho…I love me a good brunch, but I love it even more when I feel beautiful & presentable. Let’s break it down…

1. Come Prepared: I don’t care where you live, the weather can change at any time, so layering is crucial for this event. Chambray is one of my favorite wardrobe pieces because it layers with everything, adds a structured dimension to any outfit & is much lighter than adding a sweater or jacket. I always recommend, when layering, putting together three major items: a tank or tee on bottom, a chambray or light layer between & a heavy jacket [usually leather] on top. This gives you plenty of options & versatility throughout the elements of your day.

2. No Money Shots: dresses are [visually] ideal for a brunch, especially the ones showing up all over stores, given it’s Spring & florals are the ‘it’ pattern. However, chances are your group will be bustling around an oblong table or climbing over one another to get to the restroom, so be wise. If you do opt for a dress, remember to wear a nude biker short underneath or a cute pair of Hanky Panky’s to prevent from flashing your Britney to the entire restaurant. I almost always recommend my clients wear floral print dresses to this event, because they’re age appropriate, effortless & the patterns can be incredibly unique. Just be practical about your event & it’s whereabouts & your outfit will follow suit.

3. Opt Out: if you decide that dresses aren’t for you & you’d rather sport a cute pair of boyfriends jeans or shorts, just be sure to add feminine pieces & colors. Brunches are much like a garden party; think florals, pastels & sunshine, & your outfit should play off of these themes. You don’t have to go super-fem to feel super-sexy; throw on a funky, bright heel & tease your tresses & you will feel as beautiful as ever.

4. Burnt Up: if you are anything like my boyfriend, you leave the house nearly every day without your sunnies & find yourself turning around three miles from home to grab them. Don’t. You will need them more than ever on this day; sitting outside, roasting under the early afternoon sun. Plus, sunglasses are the perfect addition to an outfit. They’re like the tiny, but perfectly red cherry on top of this day & you mustn’t forget them. I’ll be doing a sunnies styling post in the next few weeks, so stay tuned for that! But for the time being, trust yourself & your taste. You know what shape, size & style is right for you, so honor it.

5. Hats Off: a hat is always a good idea. Not crucial, but a fun addition. Not to mention, I can’t even count how many times I’ve left a brunch with a burnt scalp due to #hatproblems. I’ve linked a few of my Spring/Summer favorites here, so be sure to check that out & find the perfect head piece for you.

6. Hydrate: ok so you can’t wear this item [or I guess you could, but it would turn into a weird wet-tee shirt…let’s just not], but it looks good on everyone! Hydrating is such an important part of beauty & fashion, & no one wants to be the downer on this day because they drank too many mimosas or sat too long in the sun without consuming any H2O & get a migraine. Play smart.

& ultimately, have fun. Events with friends & family are times for us to slow down & enjoy the company of one another. We are some of the hardest working creatures to ever exist & we deserve a break sometimes. Trust these guidelines, drink & eat responsibly & love on one another & you’ll have the perfect brunch date. I promise.

Xx.

May 12, 2014May 12, 2014 styledbylyric1 Comment

Rent The Runway

Considering it’s Prom season & every high school babe is manically searching prom boutiques & designer racks for the perfect dress, that they will [sadly] never wear again & will wonder how they were ever that small at any point in their life [wait til your late twenties when it all starts changing, honey]…I figured this post was entirely appropriate & completely necessary for all of my promzilla moms out there. Yes, you exist & we don’t blame you; having your teen daughter running around the house screaming about her color scheme & which nail color she needs & that her strappy heels aren’t tall enough & the florist is an idiot & screwed up the boutonniere for Jimmy & she doesn’t even want to go anymore…can put a damper on your week. But be strong Mommy’s, because this is milestone #1 of MANY & I promise you, she will thank you. Later. Like much later. Like when she has her own daughter doing these same things to her.

Regardless, I found this company, Rent The Runway, remarkable. Not only for Prom season, but for literally any event in which you want to wow your friends, husband, boyfriend, co-workers…the list goes on. These geniuses created the site to allow women of any shape & size rent real designer gowns & dresses [with insurance plans included] for incredibly reasonable prices. The process is so simple: find it, book it, wear it, return it. Done. They give you a second size of your choosing, for free, to guarantee that your size will fit like a glove [otherwise, what’s the point?] & to top it all off, they have an 800 number for personal styling advice if need be. WHAT?!

Am I the only one who’s shocked by this? Where was this company when I was 16? It’s pure brilliance. I suggest you tell your friends & get to renting, because this is major.

Xx.

May 8, 2014May 8, 2014 styledbylyric2 Comments

The Biz

I’ve had quite a few people message me about the following topic & I really wanted to take some time & thought on this one. Let’s talk business attire; the one area of the fashion world that somewhat limits our options & freedom for authenticity. However, I strongly believe the following advice will bend this sad principle & help every heel-wearing, blazer-sporting, mega business babe show her voice & personality in & outside of the office. [Keep in mind, this all varies depending upon where you work & their dress code requirements.]

The big hitting question: what do I purchase? There are so many ways to wear business attire & blend in pieces from your personal, daily wardrobe, but the key to looking professional is finding timeless pieces that make you feel confident. Here are some tried & true rules:

Find The New Classics: purchase pieces that hold longevity. Sweaters, button-ups, flowing blouses & slacks are ideal. These pieces mix & match flawlessly & will never go out of style, but don’t be afraid to play it up. The shapes of these classic pieces are ever changing to keep up with the fashion world, so I say go for a wide-legged slack & a statement belt, as these slight adjustments can change the entire era of an outfit.

Be Reasonable: sky-high pumps are not office friendly. Instead, opt for a pair that won’t make your feet feel like balloons. Generally, a one to two inch heel is the “safe zone” for office wear & try to select a pair in the nude, cream, black or tan family, as these will move fluidly throughout your entire wardrobe. I usually go for a pump that I can wear outside of the office to validate my investment & assure me that I’m still respecting my fashion voice.

Draw The Line: pencil skirts are the perfect way to spice up a blank or boring office wardrobe, but be picky, as length is everything with this look. Walking the line of office appropriate & chic can be tricky with any leg-showing item, so keep it safe at knee-length & you won’t ever fail.

Blazer City: if my previous posts on blazers weren’t inspiring & intense enough, I will once again remind you of my blazer obsession. They are the perfect office attire addition & move incredibly well between business meetings & your after work glass of wine with a friend. Find yourself three favorites: one black or grey, one white or tan & one bright or bold. Having these three staples in your closet will dress up ANY look & make you feel chic & put together. Rememer: the true fit of a blazer is in the shoulders; if the stitching doesn’t line up with your shoulders, it doesn’t fit.

Add Some Pop: nothing says “put together” with more intention than a hint of creativity & personality in your outfit. Even in the most traditional work environments, a light pop of color is acceptable [& just plain fun]. Try to stick to pale pinks, blues & even light lavenders & plums. Remember: bright tops = muted bottoms. Never do both with work wear.

Slacked: the most important investment for your business wardrobe are pants. However, the 80’s are over & there are hundreds of options for business women today. The choice is yours, but I always believe that a fun pair of cropped pants or drawstring pants [particularly ones with strong pleats] can add interest & focus to an outfit, making it stand out among the sea of monotonous office wear. Not to mention, printed & non-printed pants are everywhere right now, so the options are basically endless.

Know Your Environment: if you spend your entire day out on the streets of San Francisco or New York running from appointment to appointment, then be realistic about your footwear & outfit. Always opt for slacks versus skirts or dresses & a fun pointed-toe flat; the wind-chill could seriously freeze your bones, your heels may slow down your pace & your focus will be on how quickly you can finish your meetings & ice your swollen sausage toes when you get home or where your next cab is because you can’t walk anymore. No one wants to lose agility & work ethic because of their attire, particularly your boss.

& last, but not least, keep learning what pieces & shapes work for your body & your body alone. Even if Amy in the corner cubical is rocking some amazing jump-suit & five inch stilettos, it may not be right for you. The entire purpose of fashion is about finding your own style & feeling beautiful doing it, so try not to be susceptible to trends…but you already knew that, because you’re a mega powerhouse business woman who blazes her own trail. Duh.

TGIT. Xx.

April 30, 2014April 30, 2014 styledbylyricLeave a comment

Buckle Up

I had a curious reader ask if I wouldn’t mind discussing belts & which ones work for which body types. Seeing as Summer is [nearly] here & dresses & skirts are about to dominate our wardrobes, belts can be the perfect addition to almost any outfit. They help break up single-print fabrics, they add shape & contour to a waistline & well, help keep our pants up [I know, people still actually use them for this, ha]. Let’s get to it…

The way you decide to buckle or tie your belt[s] is entirely up to you; I always say the more creative the better. For some fun examples & fresh new ways to acheive this look, head over here to get the scoop. What matters even more than this fun styling trick, however, is fit.

Pear-Shaped Babes: opt for thin belts, particularly if you plan on wearing them at your hips. Also note that the more belting the better, as belts for your body type highlight your tiny waist. Blending single-tone & printed belts is perfect for your wardrobe, as each piece will elongate you & help bring the outfit together.

Hour-Glass Babes: thin to medium belts are staples for your body type, as your waist is also one of your smallest points. When rocking a skirt or dress, belting higher up on the waistline [right over the belly-button] will reset the focal point to your ribcage.

Petite Babes: don’t over-do it; thin, simple, monochromatic belts are in your wheelhouse, as over-embellishing could make you appear larger than you truly are. When pairing belts with dresses or skirts be sure to wear them right at your hip line, to give you definition & shape.

Apple-Shaped Babes: the higher the belt the better; wearing belts under the bust-line will help draw attention to your thinnest point [as well as give the girls an added boost]. Opt for large, wide belts to tighten & accent your waistline & throw in pops of color for added focus.

Last but absolutely not least, trust your instincts. If you don’t feel like the best version of yourself then try working in other accessories or colors. One of the hardest things to teach my clients is that styling takes time & work; the first outfit isn’t always the right outfit. Be patient, don’t get frustrated & remember to love your bones, they’re the only ones you get.

Happy Buckling, babes. Xx.

April 23, 2014April 24, 2014 styledbylyricLeave a comment

Mix It Up

I’ve had a few readers asking my thoughts on mixing prints & I’ve decided to put together my fool-proof guide to perfecting this look. Mixing prints can be incredibly uncomfortable, difficult & just plain…weird, if not executed properly. Below are my guidelines to understanding what prints can be deemed “neutrals” & how to make even the most outrageous print work alongside another print.

Rule #1: leopard is a neutral [yes, I really did just say that]. It goes with literally every color & hue & adds an elevated element to every outfit, particularly those among other prints. One of my favorite examples of this is the picture below; the checkered button-up with the pop of candy-apple red & leopard to top it off, is print-mixing perfection:

Rule #2: pair opposing sizes; if you choose to rock bold, wide stripes, be sure to contrast them with a tighter, more subtle print. Remaining organized & put-together is still important for this look, regardless of how far you wish to push the limits. Such as the following; the polka-dot print is small & tight, while the stripes are bold & overstated. This helps visually balance out the look, helping the prints work together rather than apart.

Rule #3: keep it in the family; regardless of which shapes & patterns you choose to pair together, be sure that they are in the same color family. [Click here for a quick lesson on all things color wheel] The biggest trick to perfecting this trend is to follow the true colors in each fabric. Find a common color that brings the look into one fluid outfit & highlight it. Sometimes it’s even more interesting to choose the less obvious of all of the colors. See below:

Rule #4: be subdued, but loud; throwing in camo prints to different looks is the perfect introduction to this type of styling, as camo is very understated & can be deemed a neutral. Add in a bold-colored accessory or two & you’ve got yourself your first mixed print fit. Helpful hint: camo’s best opposites are coral, leopard print & stripes:

Rule #5: it’s all in how you wear it; be bold with this look & trust your instincts. Personal style is about letting your clothes do the talking, so if you love your look, allow that confidence to shine through the way you walk, talk & carry the outfit:

Now that you have some basic tools for this type of styling, be sure to attack your closets & create a look that speaks for who you are & what you love. That is the entire purpose of fashion, ya know. Happy mixing, readers! Xx.

April 21, 2014April 22, 2014 styledbylyric3 Comments

CONFESSIONS OF A MAKEUP BAG

Lyric was originated to focus on wardrobes & styling, but I’ve noticed an incredibly important & under-appreciated part of a woman’s wardrobe; her makeup. While I won’t sit here & proclaim to know all-things-makeup, I do in fact know the importance of cleanliness & maintenance of your beauty products. As displayed above, today was cleaning day & I’ve decided to share the knowledge I have, my tips & tricks to keeping clean brushes & makeup bags, & some shocking statistics that may have you buying double the soap in your household. Here goes [squeamish ones beware]…

The Chicago Examiner conducted a survey & found the following results:

56% of women go months without replacing their mascara [hello styes, nice to meet you]
55% of women admit to sleeping with their makeup on daily [poor pillowcases]
53% of women simply “forget” to wash their makeup brushes [bacteria heaven]

I noticed long ago that my skin would break out along by cheek bones, nose & forehead when I didn’t wash my bronzer brush & even my eyebrows would get a blemish or two when I didn’t clean my brow brush. Then, during my [broke] college years, I would randomly wake up with a stye on my eyelid, never noticing the relationship between sharing makeup, old makeup & my new red, eye bump. I decided it was time to change these frustrating circumstances & become aware of my makeup cleanliness & have since never looked back. To this day I clean my brushes, bags, scissors, applicators & tweezers weekly. Here’s my never-fail process:

BRUSHES:

Hand wash every item in your bag with warm water & soap
Grab your daily face-wash & saturate every bristled item in your bag with a drop of this product
Wash thoroughly until bristles are back to their original color
Repeat this process with your liquid &/or powder applicators

MAKEUP BAG:

Flip bag(s) inside out
Wash & scrub heavily with hot water & soap
Repeat this process, but with your daily face-wash [be sure not to miss the corners]
Let air-dry inside out

MAKEUP SHELF LIFE:

While there are no legal requirements for makeup expiration, there are certainly suggested dates that have been compiled over the years. I recommend keeping a log of dates for each new piece of makeup as it’s purchased. Regardless, here are some tried & true timelines for your makeup:

Mascara: throw out your mascara [regardless of how expensive it was] after 3 months
Eye-Pencils: let these babies go after 2 years [keeping a clean sharpen each use]
Eye-shadow: dry shadows can last up to 2 years, while liquid shadows should be tossed after 12 months
Lipsticks: these stainers should be ditched after 2 years of use [or non-use]
Powders/Blushes: cream blushes & foundations can be held onto for up to a year, while powders can last up to 2 years
Foundation & Concealer: liquid concealer should be let go of at 12 months, while stick & moisturizing foundations can last up to 18 months

If you commit to this process weekly, you will find that your skin & pores will love you more than ever. “EVERY WEEK!?” you ask…as this experiment shows, bacteria can start growing on your brushes as quickly as 24 hours after use. Um, gross!

Your wardrobe & overall appearance is not isolated to just clothing, but rather the entire end result. These steps will elevate your look & maintain your overall well-being. Who doesn’t want that?

Happy cleaning, beauties. Xx.

April 18, 2014April 22, 2014 styledbylyric2 Comments

Nailed It

While spending the majority of our time & energy on redefining our wardrobe & what works within it, we may forget to dress our most visible feature: our hands. Your hands are two of the first things people see [& often touch] upon an introduction & keeping them clean & polished matters just as much as the rest of you. I’ve decided to share a few of my favorite nail secrets & colors for Spring 2014, to keep you looking fresh, put together & ahead of the game. Here goes…

“Butler Please” by Essie is one of my absolute musts this season. It’s a stunning, deep cobalt blue that brings life to any outfit. Never do I get more compliments on my nails than when I rock this color.

Pastels are everything this Spring & Orly’s “Harmonious Mess” is the front runner for my tan-hand babes. This color will, unfortunately, wash out any pale-hued hands, so perhaps put this one off until the true Summer months.

I love the versatility of this soft pink by OPI titled “Pink-ing Of You”. It’s chic, not overdone & makes any size, shape & colored hand look gorgeous.

If the pastel look is something you appreciate, but you can’t quite get on board with, then try “Merino Cool” by Essie. This unique purpled-taupe hue will make for an effortless Winter to Spring transition & dresses up incredibly well, without the harshness of black.

I have a lot of clients & friends that have careers that prevent them from sporting bright-themed nails, so this perfect nude by OPI titled “Mimosa’s for Mr. & Mrs.” is my recommendation. This isn’t your grandmothers nude polish, it adds just a hint of color without aging your hands. Not to mention, it is the perfect wedding polish.

And now for my secret weapon: Barielle Gel Top Coat. This extra layer will gloss & prolong your mani for up to two weeks. I use it on my [at home] pedicures & my feet look amazing for weeks! The price point is a little steep, but it’s way worth the investment, as this product will last you. I promise.

So the next time you’re on a Target run to get that loofah & those whitening strips you’ll end up forgetting throughout your trip, be sure to pay your hands & feet some mind. They deserve some dressing up just as much as you do. Xx.