April 13, 2015April 13, 2015 styledbylyric3 Comments

Bach[elorette] Please

If you know anything about my personal life, you know that this year I will be attending [& participating in] 12 weddings. Yes. I just said that. TWELVE. It was one of those things where I was casually going through my 26 years of life thinking, “Hm, why doesn’t anyone invite me to their wedding…” & then. Thanks manifestation.

However, here I am, & bring on the love.

That all being said, with all this love comes engagement parties, bridal showers, bachelorette parties, rehearsal dinners & obviously, the big day. But what the hell do you wear & how do you select pieces in a productive & efficient way without turning into bridesmaidzilla?

Here I am darling, to help save the day.

Seeing as I now consider myself a wedding spectator expert, I’ve consolidated my top wedding tips on what to wear without losing your mind.

ENGAGEMENT PARTY: your bff, sister, friend, cousin…whomever, has just said “Yes” & you’re invited to the engagement party…

What To Wear: engagement parties are just the beginning of the process, so going overboard is not for this affair. Opt for feminine details [dresses being easiest], solid basics, soft prints, & minimal accessories [things that prevent from taking away from the bride]. Think cottons & polys. Top it off with a fun shoe & call it good. Here’s a few examples:

BRIDAL SHOWER: it’s time to show the bride your love; likely with mimosa’s flying & afternoon sunshine beaming, today is about being your classiest self. Think tea time with a little edge.

What To Wear: I say go all floral, sequins, chiffon, & lace on the brides shower day. Make it as whimsical & beautiful as possible. & if you can’t rock a cute heel, then at least play it up with a stylized flat or sandal. Like so:

two piece

BACHELORETTE PARTY/WEEKEND: it’s bound to get wild, so put on your best Vegas & go all in.

What To Wear: chances are high that you will be at a club/bar/restaurant at some point during this time together, thus having your best hairspray & sexist LBD is vital. However, don’t forget your most comfortable sweatpants & tee shirt for the morning after. Like this:

REHEARSAL DINNER: chances are if you’re a bridesmaid, you’ll be at this event; a crucial & probably most serious part of the wedding process.

What To Wear: the rehearsal dinner is the time to put on your best professional attire & not get sideways. Grab your favorite pair of grandma-approved heels, a cute top, or maybe even a reasonably long skirt & prepare to memorize your role.

As for what to wear to their Big Day, well you’ll just have to wait & see what I conjure up in coming blog posts ;]

Regardless of when the wedding festivities begin or how badly you ~~even~~ want to go, finding great pieces that represent who you are, while remaining comfortable & theme-appropriate is not an easy task. But it also shouldn’t cost you your sanity [or your life savings]. If you like any of the pieces shown above or have questions on finding the right outfit for your specific event, feel free to reach out in the contact section.

Fashion should be fun & approachable. & so should wedding season.

Happy Bridesmaiding, babes. Xx.

March 30, 2015March 30, 2015 styledbylyricLeave a comment

Basic Bunnies

Whether you’re meeting your significant other’s family for the first time, or simply spending time with your ~~least~~ favorite relatives, Easter outfits can be a tricky thing. Department store racks are currently spilling over with floral ensembles, so I’ve decided to not let you go the easy route; just say no to floral this holiday #dontbebasic. Instead, I’ve put together my six favorite Easter 2015 looks, so you too can get inspired & find your inner creative pastel bunny, in hopes to make this Sunday’s outfit one you’ll actually want to look back on.

Let’s go.

Ditch the typical floral maxi, find yourself a beautiful lavender, soft pink, even powder blue one instead. Keeping with the pastel theme, this dress will make you feel like a princess in a room full of frogs [don’t worry, they all have the potential to be princes].

Keep it fresh with an unexpected print like this oversized polka dot tunic; it adds texture & dimension to a once simple design. Find one in a gorgeous pastel? Well, you’ve won the freaking lottery.

The one cliché fabric that I’ll always let slide is lace. This always beautiful, always chic, effortless garment stands alone without fuss. Julia Engel rocked this one above with her amazing [$1,000] Valentino pointed-toe slingbacks, but a playful gladiator sandal or wedge would team just as well.

Not feeling a dress this Easter Sunday? Try a monochromatic look instead. Julie Sarinana [my favorite style blogger on the planet] is the white on white queen. Pair neutral colors together [white, tan, grey, charcoal, black, taupe] & don’t look back. Just be sure you’re ultra stain-conscious throughout the day.

As much as I love a stand-alone maxi, I’m more interested in unique pieces like this tie-dyed beauty. A stylish way to ring in the Spring season without looking like you just stepped out of High Times Magazine. Top it off with a sexy heel & you’ll feel like JLo on the red carpet circa 2000.

& finally, one of my favorites; shorts. This look is perfect for a chilly morning brunch turned afternoon hellish sun. Team a waffle knit sweater with a soft pair of shorts & you’ll be the most prepared fashionista in the room.

Lastly, make me one single promise this Easter Sunday & say it out loud to yourself: “I will not ruin my adorable Easter outfit that Lyric helped me style with an awful pair of old flip flops. I will take the time to pair the appropriate footwear to finalize my outfit & not break Lyric’s heart.”

Nothing makes me more devastated in my clients than when I catch them being lazy with their footwear decisions. Always take the time to top off your entire fit.

& with that, I wish you well in all of your outfit decisions. & remember, regardless of anything, this is a day to spend time together, to love on one another & to feel good about yourself.

Happy Styling.

Xx.

March 9, 2015March 9, 2015 styledbylyric1 Comment

White Out

Does anyone else have a full fledged meltdown when white denim starts positioning itself on the shelves of your favorite retailers? As it is, I have a legitimate issue with denim; I need every wash, ever created. #certifiable. But white denim is my kryptonite. I want 100 pairs, all the exact same shade, no matter the cost. But. I cannot, for the life of me, find a thick enough pair that doesn’t show every single tiny little imperfection of my legs. Nobody wants to see that I ate an entire wheel of brie this past weekend. That’s not ever cute. So why do designers continue to make these flimsy, see-through versions year in & year out?

The struggle is real.

Thus, today, after scouring the internet, department stores & questioning friends & family alike, I’m posting my absolute favorite white denim finds. One’s with serious structure & texture, to prevent from looking like an awful 80s jazzercise outtake. In hopes that all of my fashion-hungry babes can attain this chic, clean look this Spring without compromising their comfort & security.

Here goes…

AG ‘The Prima’ Mid Rise Cigarette Jeans, Nordstrom, $164

For a more relaxed, everyday-wear pair, these AG’s are my favorite. They’re thick, hug every flattering inch of your lower half & are perfect from day to night. [Order up, they run small].

KUT From The Kloth ‘Catherine’ Boyfriend Jeans, Nordstrom, $79.50

We all know how much I love a great boyfriend jean & these KUT From The Kloth jeans are no exception. For a more relaxed fit & aesthetic, these crops hit right above the ankle & are perfect for the beach. [Order down, they run big].

Mid Rise Destroyed Cropped Jean, Express, $79.90

There is always a time & a place for a distressed pair of denim & these Express pair hit the mark. Keep in mind, they are a skinny jean, so they hug…a lot. More ideal for my thin legged babes, these jeans are the perfect partner to Spring tunics & days in the sun.

Reid Cone Denim Jean, J.Crew, $95 [on sale now]

J.Crew can pretty much do no wrong in my book when it comes to denim, but they seriously nailed it this Spring with their Reid Cone jeans. Soft, breathable, structured…need I say more? You will live in these this Spring//Summer. & they’re on sale right now [use code: SPRINGSTYLE]

MiH Marrakesh Flare Jeans, Anthropologie, $195

& for my boho babes who need a little flare, come these MiH pair. Rich in texture, they have the perfect fan around the bottom to create an element of surprise & interest. Perfect for Summer concerts or BBQing with friends; these are a must have.

Whether you choose a pair mentioned above or find yourself shopping for others that better suit your fancy, just remember that fit, fabric & coverage are the key factors to perfecting white denim. & babes, don’t pair them with bright undies. You’re just setting yourself up for failure.

Happy Hunting. Xx.

March 2, 2015March 2, 2015 styledbylyric1 Comment

Forget That. Get This.

After finishing up my past few consults & conversing with my clients about their major needs//wants out of this industry, I’ve concluded that people love a good deal. & bargain shopping is at an all time high. As much as we all love designer brands & high-end everything, it’s not realistic for the average human to spend $1,000 on new Jimmy Choo’s or a great handbag. One day. But not every day. So for those other 364, I’ve decided to help a babe out.

Today’s post is for my bargain shoppers who want a great product [or five] without the all the guilt. I’ve selected a few of my favorite 2015 shoes & found [reasonably priced] comparable products that you can purchase instead, without lacking quality. Capiche?

If there’s one thing I want my clients to learn through Lyric, it’s that personal style does not have to cost thousands of dollars; find pieces you love, that work for you & forget the rest. Thus, I’ll be doing a Forget That. Get This. post every month with my favorite bargain finds, to prove that personal style can be incredibly affordable & fun.

Today’s focus: SHOES. Let’s get started.

Forget That: Stuart Wietzman Nudist Single Band Sandals, $398

Get This: Mossimo’s Pamela Heeled Sandal, $29.99

Forget That: Sergio Rossi Mermaid Cage Booties, $1,895Get This: Zigi Soho Duran Bootie, $79.95

Forget That: Pour La Victoire Camila Lace Up Sandals, $265

Get This: Impo Tanny Sandal, $39.95

Forget That: Joie A La Plage Sable Two Band Sandals, $125

Get This: Joie Sable Flat Sandal [nearly the same sandal], $64.95

Forget That: Joie Dalton Suede Booties, $325

Get This: Crown Vintage Rita Booties, $39.95

Forget That: Derek Lam 10 Crosby Campbell Wedge Sandal, $295

Get This: Crown Vintage Rebecca Wedge Sandal, $39.95

Clearly these are very small examples of a much larger concept; seek & you shall find. In this case however, ask me & I’ll seek for you; if you have any questions about a specific product & are on the hunt for a similar but price friendly version, shoot me an email [see contact tab for details] & I’m more than happy to help!

Happy Hunting, babes. & remember, don’t just buy it because it’s designer.

Xx.

February 9, 2015February 18, 2015 styledbylyricLeave a comment

The Friend Zone

You know that terribly awkward place between what is & what should be. The noncommittal place where making any kind of move seems sudden & unprepared. The grey area that seems safer than anything finite. Yeah. This place. This is what I call February & March.

What? You ask.

The seven weeks between Winter & Spring that should [frankly] be their own damn season. Where you constantly feel uncomfortable because none of your clothes breathe enough, or keep you warm enough, or let in enough air…the list goes on & on. Regardless, it’s the annoying friend zone of the fashion world that you want to get out of as quickly as humanly possible. & I’m here to not only help that transition, but help you enjoy it, too.

There are five small changes you can make to prepare for this awful land of limbo. Let’s get to it.

1. Lessen The Load: swap out those heavy wool layers & opt for lighter fabrics. Layering with softer, light-weight fabrics can still keep you plenty warm without that gross overheated feeling.

Outfit Recommendations:

A light weight blazer//sweater//jacket, over a soft tank & a great pair of wide leg pants.

For a more casual feel; pair a cute pullover sweater, with your favorite boyfriend denim, add a leather jacket for some edge & top it off with a super feminine pair of flats//heels. Done & done.

One of my favorite looks during this season; a fitted white tee, denim//chambray topper, awesome printed pants & a simple heel. Effortlessly chic.

2. Add Some Va Va Voom: color is everything during this transition. To help you relinquish your desperate need for an all black ensemble & reintroduce you to pinks, blues, peaches…anything that makes you think of Spring, you’ll need to reach for colors that are complimentary in your color wheel & throw them in the mix. You don’t have to pack away all those darks just yet, but adding Spring-focused colors to each outfit [even as simple as your handbag] can help things move along quickly.

Outfit Recommendations:

Chartreuse & black are the ultimate duo. Adding this pop of color to your Winter-focused outfit can hurry the Spring season along in a major way.

Don’t want to change out those dark colors just yet? Understandable. Just invest in a fun, bright handbag to keep your look fresh & transitional. A small change that makes you look more fashion forward than ever.

By now you should all know my ~~obsession~~ love for an amazing blazer, & this is the perfect time to bust one of those babies out. A [colored] fitted blazer will help you ditch those heavy coats & bring a softer layer to your outfit. Not to mention, make you look prepped for basically anything.

3. Print It Up: ditch that entirely solid ensemble you’ve been rocking all Winter & reintroduce yourself to prints. Yes, those floral, patterned, beautiful things that you’ve let sit in the back of your closet for the past eight weeks or so. But don’t forget, you have options here; tribal, floral, animal, chevron, houndstooth, etc. Get creative.

Outfit Recommendations:

A printed shoe can be exactly what you need to add a little pop of Spring to your once Winter outfit.

A monochromatic printed pant is a subtle way to add dimension, but not take away from the basic feel of an outfit.

Don’t limit yourself to typical prints. Challenge yourself this season to find the most unique & outspoken print you can find, team it with subtle pieces & voila, you’re a fashion icon.

4. OMG Shoes: nothing shows that you’re more prepared for the coming season than the perfect shoe. I know it sounds ridiculous, but how many times have you witnessed an amazing outfit be completely ruined by the wrong shoe? Uhg. Pet Peeve #1. If you’re going to make all the effort in the world on your top half, pay mind to the bottom half while you’re at it. Starting with your feet. Your outfit & stylist [me] will thank you.

Shoe Recommendations:

One of the easiest ways to transition your footwear is by rocking a black//grey//taupe, edgy sandal with tons of hardware. The dark color & heavy hardware gives a cool Winter feel, with breeziness fit for Spring sunshine.

Not ready to put your cute Winter boots away just yet? Totally fine. Just try to find yourself a pair with a peep-toe for a little sex appeal & a major nod to Spring. [Be sure to wear an awesome, bright toe polish to top it off].

Much like a good blazer, pointed toe flats are basically the loves of my life. They’re so sexy, so chic, & so practical. You can run errands in them, go out with friends, rock a date night, or look like the most put together employee at your next company meeting. Try them in red, blue or grey for an added edge & you’ll be the hottest thing the room.

5. Shaded: clothing is not the only staple that needs revamping between seasons. Your lips should get some love, too. Find yourself a few fun, bold shades that will bring your kissers from the dark to light with one quick swipe.

Color Recommendations:

Twig by MAC is the perfect daily neutral for those of you not quite prepared for Spring just yet.

For some major Spring pop, Candy Yum-Yum by MAC is my go-to color.

MAC’s Kinda Sexy is a fun, subdued transitional color for your lips, if you aren’t prepared to go rogue just yet.

Ready to go pink? Try Pink Plaid by MAC & your wish is my command. Perfect for warm Spring days, this color will help ease the transition away from Winter.

So the next time you find yourself in that terribly awkward place between what is & what should be, remember these tips & solidify exactly how you want to be personified. Stand out & be ahead of the game. Because the grey area sucks anyway.

Xx.

January 27, 2015February 18, 2015 styledbylyric2 Comments

Shredded.

This time of year, pretty much every year, my lips start to absolutely fall apart. They stare at me blankly in the mirror, with their shredded edges & cracked lines, as if to prove once more that I’ve neglected their entire existence. However, this is the furthest from the truth. I drink endless amounts of lemon water, devour vegetables, & even drink my coffee//tea through a straw [I’ve convinced myself that this helps my lips somehow]. But it’s the constant dry outdoor air mixed with blasting heater vents that eventually destroys your smoochers. Thus, I’ve decided to do a post on my favorite lip rescue treatments, so you & yours can get back to lip locking this blustery 2015.

Let’s start with the facts: lippies with salicylic acid, camphor, menthol & phenol can actually make your lips drier, irritated & more chapped than when you started. Not to mention, some ingredients are completely synthetic. Annoying right? [Everything is a business, after all]. If you do a little research & truly think about some of the ingredients used on our mouth multiple times a day, you might have a borderline freak out. [Don’t worry I had mine, too]. But fear not, there are still honest companies out there that want to better your kisser without all the crap.

What to look for: lips are incredibly self sufficient; Winter adds extra stress, but your lips retain moisture relatively naturally. To give them a little extra help during harsh weather months, try to lessen your lip licking, find lip treatments with cetyl alcohol & petrolatum [in small doses, as it can suffocate your lips if used too often], & be picky about your lip scrubs.

My Favorites: as a woman with some major lips, I’m incredibly selective about what I put on them. I love me a good lip color, but I always use a chapstick prior to every application. Below are a few of my favorite pre-lipstick-application brands & products.

Favorite Daily Wear: Smith’s Rosebud Salve [original scent]
Favorite Organic Balm: Osmia Organics Lip Balm
Favorite Non-Organic Balm: Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment
Favorite Scrub: Fresh Sugar Polish
Favorite Lip Cure: Dr. Dewy Lip Cure

What to abolish from your makeup bag: as well-marketed & cute as some lip moisturizing brands can be, you should always educate yourself on what to truly never waste your time with. However, considering you probably don’t have the time to sit & read up on all kinds of lip treatment ingredients, I’ll do the work of you [that’s just the kind of girl I am]. Consider the following blacklisted:

eos Medicated Tangerine Lip Balm: as a big eos fan myself, I was incredibly disappointed to find that they used “phenol” in this particular ball of supposed Tangerine goodness. I literally wrote eos a letter & sent this product back to them. Click above [phenol click-through] to get all the nasty ingredient deets. I would recommend the rest of their line for a quick go-to purse chapstick, but always read the fine print.
Carmex: a brand that has been under scrutiny for years now & continues to alarm me. Any brand using acids, phenols & menthol all in one balm should be banned. Period. Lest we forget the fiberglass rumor of the early 2000’s? Just saying…
e.l.f. Studio Lip Balm: SPF 15 is certainly a great additive to your lip balm, but masking it with harmful chemicals, acids & cheap waxes doesn’t make for a good product or purchase. Treat yourself & your lips right & spend a few more than $3 on your next lip treatment.

Winter doesn’t get to take all the fun out of kissing, so long as you take the initiative to protect your lips the right way. So the next time you get that pesky crack or sore on your lip, remember what you’ve learned here & put your knowledge to good use. Your lips will thank you. & so will those smoochin you.

Happy Kissing.

**Please keep in mind that the brands mentioned above are my opinion. They aren’t meant to harm or hinder anyone’s use of a particular product, but rather open our minds to what we’re potentially ingesting day in & day out.**

January 19, 2015January 20, 2015 styledbylyric1 Comment

Alexis Russell

As you’ve probably caught on by now, I’m basically a slut for jewelry…in the nicest way possible. The more dainty & delicate the piece, the heavier I’m drooling//panting//doing whatever it takes to make it mine. [& yes, I react the same way over statement jewelry, but we’ve already done a few blog posts on that. Duh.] Thus, Alexis Russell has become my new love affair [sorry babe, I’m leaving you for fine, gold & diamond gems]. I legitimately find myself spending countless hours on her website, Instagram & Twitter, imagining all the ways I could style her pieces with my current wardrobe & for my clients. She mixes classic metals with edgy angles & shapes, & tops it all off with a perfect little diamond or stone. Who needs more than that? Oh & Brides-To-Be, she’s got a bridal collection, too. Oof.

Enough talk…just scope her stuff out for yourself. But grab a napkin, you’ll need it.

[Images Courtesy of AlexisRussell.com 2015]

January 5, 2015January 19, 2015 styledbylyric4 Comments

Similarly Opposite

As I scoured department stores the past few weeks [not forgetting to add congratulations to us all for surviving yet another holiday shopping season without a warrant for our arrest] for that “perfect gift” [whatever that even means] for my loved ones, I naturally found myself doing what I do best: fashion stalking. No, I don’t get weird or harm anyone. I just look. A lot. I silently survey fellow shoppers, I view mannequins, I look at wall decor, & colors & patterns & sidewalks, & I touch everything; clothes, hardware, curtains, blankets, jewelry…I’m basically a freak for texture. I watch for patterns, trends, habits, pretty much anything that tends to lead the pack in one general direction or another. & then…I break it. Mentally, of course. I imagine a world turned upside-down, where these trends no longer drive a major group & I conjure up ways in which I can educate my clients on how to do it differently & for their own self.

After slamming two [possibly three] Cinnamon Hazelnut Latte’s from Peets & heading home, I reviewed my findings. & I recognized a major common thread among many of the men & women I’d seen during my research: over-planning. Outfits that reeked of over-intention & matchy-ness. & I started to wonder, what is it that makes for a successful outfit?

My answer: the sweet spot. The similarly opposite place in your world that holds all things in balance.

The sweet spot is the tiny nook in your fashionista[o] world where color, individuality, comfort, pattern, intention, practicality, & flair all come together to make a beautiful outfit baby. & it exists. Without much energy exerted on your behalf. Yes, really. [That’s why I’m here].

Where do we start? The color wheel.

To understand fashion [or basically life itself] one must first know & understand the color wheel & what it all really means. Most importantly: color harmony [the theory of which colors are analogous with others]. Layman’s terms: find the color you’re feeling that day on the wheel above & match it with the three colors next to it. Literally. That’s color harmony. The second most important concept of the color wheel: complementary colors. Take the color you want to focus on//rock the hell out of that day & pair it with the three to four colors across from it on the color wheel. This ain’t rocket science people.

& now you’re a color expert.

But visuals make everything better…

[Pink meets Mint meets Yellow meets Blue meets Leopard]

[Chartreuse meets Blue meets Leopard]

[Purple meets Green meets Brown meets Stripes meets Coral]

[Navy meets Orange meets Chevron]

[Gold meets Grey meets Coral meets Black]

Need I say more?

Sometimes those two pieces you never imagined working side by side are dying for you to finally bring them together. & you should. For fashion’s sake & for your own creative identity.

& the next time you find yourself reaching for that black on black ensemble that you’ve been working all Winter long, try some color on for size. After all, creativity drives greatness.

Happy 2015 babes. Xx.

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:

September 22, 2014September 22, 2014 styledbylyricLeave a comment

Runway to Realway

It’s easy to find yourself “oohing” & “ahhing” over New York Fashion Week; all the Instagram posts, fan pages & [my personal favorite] the fashion blogger/vlogger outfits flooding the streets of NY…it’s intoxicating. NYFW is a global event that seemingly stops time; for those eight magical days people of all ages & backgrounds are allowed [& enticed] to fall madly into the entire experience & give their full attention.

But the real question is: what the hell does it all mean?

I watched the unbelievable Ralph Lauren show in Central Park this year. I drooled over Whitney Pozgay’s joyful collection & fabrics. & I nearly passed out over Oscar De La Renta’s pastel//floral//heaven of a show. But even I felt overwhelmed & lost about some of the designers direction & focus. So I’ve decided it’s time to break it down; make sense of these fabrics & textures & sometimes downright weird fashion trends, so you can feel confident & realway-ready for the Fall shopping scene.

I will be breaking down NYFW’s Spring 2015 collections into the four major compartments I saw most prevalent. Here goes…

1. Progressive Pastels: shocking, I know. Spring pastels. BUT, this year’s runway shows provided a few fresh takes on what we deem “pastel” & not. For example, we saw plenty of ashy grays, granites, blacks mixed with bright colors & metallics, leaving room for interpretation & creativity within your Spring wardrobe. Designers also added some wild pops on color: tangerine & vibrant yellows to offset the standard Spring color wheel. My personal favorite however: dusty lilac. Be still my heart. The reality is pastels aren’t going anywhere, so get those steamers ready in 2015, because you may find that your closet is already full of amazing “re-do’s” for the Spring season.

[Here are a few of my favorite looks c/o the Oscar De La Renta SS15 Show]

2. A Nod to Nature: a fresh take on a classic concept; designers coerced the old standby “floral” concept to become a simple statement. Designers allowed these once busy floral patterns to stand alone with graceful & simple prints, mixed with delicate fabrics & styles. Both dark & light backdrops with beautiful foliage on jackets, skirts, tops…it was truly artwork. I remember feeling as if last year’s Spring concepts were too neon & hectic, so this elegant change makes me more than excited. Although designers definitely gave a major nod towards femininity at this year’s NYFW, they also played into androgyny with a sexy edge. Never have I seen more darks mixed with lights & bright patterns mixed with ominous backgrounds. So perhaps I am saying once Spring 2015 rolls around think botanical garden with a lot of thorny rose bushes. Ya dig?

[Some of my favorite floral concepts c/o the DVF SS15 Show]

3. Whimsically White: Labor Day is no longer a determinant of fashion & who can wear what, when, how, & why. White is ready all year round & this year’s NYFW proved that it takes no prisoners. It’s counterpart? You guessed it: black. The two seem to be nearly fighting each other throughout some of the prints from this years’ shows. With lush, creamy whites & beiges come dark edgier, leathered black fabrics & pieces…it was pretty damn sexy if I do say so myself. Not to mention designers definitely played up the Winter to Spring transition throughout many of the their looks, making our lives that much easier when the time comes. Don’t get me wrong, black & white weren’t the only color pairings making major headway, they threw in some military greens, peach, reds, flannel prints & some really beautifully vibrant blues to mix up the matchy-ness. So when Spring 2015 rolls around think “What Not To Wear” except, break all the rules.

[Here are some of my favorite examples c/o the Rodarte SS15 show]

4. B is For Boyfriend: much like the past two seasons, the boyfriend look is here to stay. With blousy button-ups, oversized denim [both pants, jackets & dresses] & plenty of flannel print, this year’s NYFW proved that comfortable can still be sexy. Designers selected gender-neutral prints & shapes, toning down the ever-expected Spring femme styles & creating versatile over-sized pieces. Not to mention the lack of sharp heels on the runway; it seemed as if designers wanted to give their models a break this year [ha, lets be real]. More shows debuted sandals & sneakers than they do in their Summer months, or so it seemed. So my take on the coming Spring season is “less is more”. Sometimes simplicity & comfort can be the sexiest of things; throw on some sneakers, pop on some lipgloss & be ready for your day.

[Here are a few examples c/o the Jason Wu & Rag & Bone SS15 shows]

Although we’re slowwwwwwly moving into the Fall season, Spring will be rearing it’s shiny little head shortly there after & I want my babes prepared & [more so] excited to find new pieces that fit your wardrobe & style. The above are just tools to help navigate the endlessly interesting, but complicated world of fashion & runway. I hope they helped! Now get busy window shopping…there’s so much more to see.

Xx.

September 3, 2014 styledbylyric2 Comments

Clever Cardigan

I’ve had quite a few women approach me &/or message me to do a post about the appropriate styling of cardigans for the coming Fall season. With layering at the top of it’s game during this chilly season, teaming the right sweater/cardi with the right top can be tricky. Here are my fool proof rules & stylings to perfecting the best cardigan looks for your lifestyle & body…

Layering: one of my favorite ways to pair a few contrasting items together for warmth, comfort & an effortlessly chic outcome. Pair your cardi with a leather moto jacket & a great pair of denim & you’re ready for a breezy night out in the city.

Belted: sometimes cardigans can be woven with intensely heavy knits & add unwanted bulk. Choosing light to medium knits for this style is ideal; belt high on the ribcage [with a decorative belt knot] for a beautiful hourglass shape.

Overstated: as mentioned above, cardigans are often made with heavy knits & fabrics, which make for a wonderful weather deterrent, however, I advise only my petite babes to rock this style, as adding unnecessary bulk to any body type is difficult to manipulate in a positive way. Team with a white tee & a sexy pair of jeans & you’ve got yourself an effortless night in with your loved one.

Swept: one of my absolute Fall favorites this year; the floor length cardigan is so elegant & adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. I’m loving this wardrobe staple paired with distressed shorts, an awesome top & casual booties or even a super sexy stiletto.

Buttoned Up: for my preppier babes, this look is amazing with a collared shirt layered underneath. Higher, round necklines work best, but even buttoning a cardigan & wearing it without a top underneath can be sexy & edgy.

Tucked: sometimes cardigans can feel overly lengthy & can often give you grief throughout the day. One of the best cures is the cardigan tuck; simply tuck the ends of your favorite cardigan into a pencil skirt, denim, or high-waisted slacks. This gives the body & hips a nice silhouette, but be mindful of your sweaters fit- slimmer is better.

Draped: best worn with straight-legged denim or pants & a tank or styled cami, the draped cardigan is one of the most on-trend looks for Fall. This piece is perfect for layering necklaces & a great big boyfriend watch. Note: less is more with such a stylized item.

Fall is almost upon us [thank God], so start getting creative & make it a point to perfect your own layering styles this season. Your body [& stylist] will thank you.

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.

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.