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 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.

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 13, 2014August 13, 2014 styledbylyric2 Comments

Treasure Trove

While most of my posts pay tribute to womenswear, I wanted to take this gorgeous Wednesday afternoon to pay my dudes a little fashion respect. I’m ever-searching the virtual corners of the internet for new & exciting brands to share & today I’m soooooo stoked to share these two gems.

The first being Yellow108; a headwear & accessories goldmine. Holy. Their designs are so classic, they’ll make any guy feel like a he just walked out of a 50s ad. They’re rugged, meets runway, meets just let me pack a bag & go on a freaking journey. & yes, ladies, they have amazing pieces for you, as well, but this is for the guys remember? ;] Oh, & did I mention they’re an entirely sustainable company? Meaning, recycled & salvaged materials go into all of their designs & they donate 2% of all sales to local LA nonprofits. What? Rad fashion for a good cause? These dudes have it all figured out & I’m honored to share their site & brand with you.

The second is just pure genius. Olde Soul Merchantile is for any guy’s guy; one of a kind, hand crafted, amazing pottery to get you through the frigid Fall days. A little coffee with your whiskey? I think so. I personally think every dude should have one of these babies on their desk or in their cupboard this coming season. #stockingstuffer

Regardless of your gender, there are unbelievably talented designers & artists out there in the smaller fashion sphere & I’m determined to keep finding them & bringing them your way. As much as I love me a great big designer name, I respect the little guys that much more. There’s something still pure & honest about their work. Just me? Meh…

Happy Hunting, megadudes.

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 29, 2014 styledbylyricLeave a comment

Summer Sun is Setting

Still have a few key Summer items that you have yet to purchase, but can’t convince yourself to spend hundreds on pieces that will only live to see a few more weeks? September 23rd will be here before you know it & your good money should go towards some amazing Autumn layering selections [blog post to come], instead of tank tops that will be shoved in the deep, dark depths of your closet in 9 weeks. However, with 100 degree heat still lingering among us a few wardrobe edits couldn’t hurt, so long as the price is right. Thus, I have decided to share with you one of my favorite budget-shopping secrets: ChicNova. The online site that doesn’t force you to hide your receipt from your husband/boyfriend/mom/etc. & their selections are vibrant, fun & so reasonably priced that you’re guaranteed to find those last minute Summer scores.

So go on. Shop. & don’t feel sorry about it for one single second, because you’re doing it right with this site. && you deserve it.

Xx.

PS. Here’s a few of my favorite pieces…

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.

Bejewel My Heart

May 9, 2014 styledbylyric1 Comment

Bejewel My Heart

Do you ever shop for jewelry & find that products are just plain cheap nowadays? Costume jewelry is wall to wall at department stores, which is great for one-time wears, but I’m curious where all the good jewelry is? The pieces that will last more than one season without turning brassy…well, here’s one amazing source: Jewelry by Leandra.

This San Diego surfer//mega beach babe [who I know personally] has been making jewelry by hand for over four years now & is unbelievably committed to her craft & it’s quality. Her stackable pieces are fun, creative & so unique & make the perfect addition to any gift for a girlfriend [or mommy on Mother’s Day, hello].

Check out her pieces & what inspires her here or purchase directly through her site here. She won’t disappoint, I promise.

Happy Friday! 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.

It Happened

April 22, 2014April 22, 2014 styledbylyric1 Comment

I’ve officially launched the Lyric Instagram account @styledbylyric. To stay up to date on my latest outfits, inspirations, styling sessions & advice follow the account & enjoy the ride. Thank you to everyone supporting this vision & our love for fashion & personal style! Let’s continue empowering wardrobes worldwide. Xx.

The Big Reveal

April 14, 2014April 14, 2014 styledbylyric6 Comments

I figured it was probably time for me to debut the face behind the words & show that I really am a fashion-friendly, credible source for all things style & wardrobe.

I made myself one major promise upon starting Lyric & this blog in it’s entirety & it was that I refuse to relentlessly post pictures of myself on here. I want this part of the blogesphere to be about my readers & [potential] clients & about helping them identify their own personal style, not to mimic mine. However, if you find yourself inspired by any of my pictures, outfits, jewelry, etc., when they seldom do appear on the blog please don’t hesitate to reach out & inquire!

So here it is. Me. A shameless car selfie [taken on my iPhone]. Today’s fit & gems. & some major post-manicure debris.

Happy Monday, babes! Xx.