March 21, 2016March 21, 2016 styledbylyricLeave a comment

Spring Fling.

Every year, Easter Sunday sneaks up on me & I’m left to pull out that over-worn, very tired floral number that makes me look weirdly large in areas that I’d rather not mention. I refuse pictures the entire day & usually go home feeling completely frumpy & annoyed. Thus, this year I’m prepared & hoping to prepare all of you babes to #ditchthefrump & pull together an unforgettable look that will leave you feeling confident, beautiful & focused on the true meaning of this special day & the people you’re sharing it with.

Whether you observe the holiday or not, this Sunday marks the true beginning of Spring. We’re talking cute sandals, fun dresses & all the pretty pastels. Not ready to make the switch from Winter layers, just yet? Start small. Ditch your heavy coat & opt for a denim jacket instead. Replace your all-weather boots with an ankle boot or sneaker. Add transitional colors [such as soft blues, blush pinks & nudes] to your cold-weather looks. These simple switches will ease you into the new season without stress or confusion.

So grab yourself a handful of Cadbury Mini Eggs & get ready for this week’s Master Class: Spring.

Forever Floral: Spring & florals go together like sunshine & tanning oil–there’s simply no denying it or making it go away. However, this Easter, switch it up with a bolder statement. With a larger print you eliminate the predictability of a Spring outfit, while helping hide any Winter imperfections you have yet to work off. The key to owning a floral look this Spring is finding the unusual & unexpected. Here are some of my favorites:

floral romper

Just a Touch: can’t imagine decking your entire body out in pastels & florals? No problem here. Adding just a slight nod to the changing season is really all it takes to perfect a transitional Spring look. Throw suede into the mix. Swap out heavy knits for light ones. Try a silk scarf on for size. These simple, painless changes will help keep you sane in warmer weather months. Here are a few of my favorites that give just enough credit to the times, without overdoing it.

Denim Daze: one of the absolute best parts of Spring is all the denim options that open up–white, black, green, blue, skinny, wide-leg, flared, overalls, distressed…the list goes on & on. Get creative & play up your bottom half this Easter with fun options that you regularly wouldn’t rock. Whether you’re hosting, drinking, running the Easter Egg Hunt or simply chasing after your little ones all day, denim is the perfect candidate for this specific day. Here are my absolute favorite looks for ~~Easter~~ Spring 2016 & beyond:

Fem Footwear: one of the easiest ways to get your mind right about Spring is footwear. Take a favorite pair of denim, a white tee & add a delicious shoe…you’ve got yourself a fashionista dream. It doesn’t have to be complicated; even a sneaker can be feminine if executed properly. The key to owning footwear is confidence & size. More often than not my clients come to me & don’t know their true shoe size. Ladies, you can’t rock great shoes if you’re hobbling around in them. Take a peek at some of my favorite Spring footwear finds. Wild or not, these looks are show-stoppers:

Whether you’re celebrating Easter or simply need styling direction for the coming warmer months, my hope is that today’s master class taught you that taking risks is crucial in helping identify exactly what it is you like about fashion & don’t. A single outfit can be transformative; put you in an entirely different place & time. It’s storytelling. It’s powerful. & it’s a skill that I hope to continue to instill in my clients word by word, post by post, consultation after consultation.

Keep working at it, keep taking risks & have a beautiful Sunday with family, friends & a fierce outfit.

Happy Easter, all.

Xx.

February 2, 2016February 2, 2016 styledbylyricLeave a comment

Varient Valentine

Hi Babes. In case you haven’t looked at a calendar lately, it’s officially February. How this happened? I have not a clue. However, it’s here & you’re sure to find hearts & candies && rainbows wall to wall pretty much anywhere you go this time of year. But, never fear. I’m here to help with all things Valentine’s related, both coupled or apart.

Today, I’ve compiled my favorite Valentine’s Day looks for all my single ladies & my wifed-up babes, in hopes that we all don’t fall into the tacky trap that is February 14th. These purchases will see you through the other 364 days of the year, so you aren’t left feeling like the day after Disneyland, stuck with Mickey ears that you’ll never touch again.

The key to owning a themed holiday look: don’t be overly intentional. As humans we tend to choose the obvious choice[s], but holidays [whether Hallmark or not] like St. Patricks Day, Christmas, or even Halloween often lead us towards shades of green, red & orange. Pick other alternatives; they exist & long to be worn.

Here goes…

Really Red: should you still feel the urge to rock a red-ish ensemble February 14th, be unexpected with your look. Opt for burgundy, plum, or even blush tones versus a bright vibrant, traditional red hue. It adds a different feel to a worn out Valentine’s tradition.

[Shop this look]

Bold Black: whether you’re feeling anti or simply want to rock a sexier V-Day look, black is the best option. Add slight pops of color & texture; tulle, beading, reds, pinks, etc. to take this look to the next level & still feel Valentine’s Day-esque without all the hearts & kisses.

Baby Blues: not feeling the stark black vibe this year? Blue is a great alternative. Not quite as harsh, works on nearly every skin tone & still makes you feel the tiniest bit antiestablishment on this themed, snuggly day. The key to this look: stay classic; pencil skirts, skater dresses, wrap dresses, traditional necklines…keep it simple, but add a little spice with your jewelry.

Poised & Purple: the obvious Valentine’s Day choice is always red, however, purple is an incredible alternative. It’s chic, romantic, gives almost every woman a modern wardrobe lift & translates easily with all hair types, skin tones, & eye color. Oh & did I mention, it makes you look tan? #upgrade

[Shop this look]

Wintery White: one of my absolute favorite colors [year round] is white. It’s versatile, flattering, & so romantic during the Winter months. Oh & obviously it’s perfect for V. Day…was I not making that clear? ;] The possibilities are pretty endless with white hues: skirts, denim, tops, blazers, dresses, pantsuits, rompers, heels, etc., but I’ve narrowed my findings down to these four February 14th looks. Note: white with soft blues, pinks & nudes fit best together.

So whether you’ve got a sexy date planned with your special someone, or you just want to plop on the couch with some salty ass popcorn & pretend it’s another day, do Valentine’s Day justice with a small hint of style. Spruce up your winter robe, or go big & throw on a full pantsuit for your romantic dinner.

Whatever you decide to do, love on yourself this February. Because you’re wonderful, beautiful & your wardrobe thanks you for all the good decisions you’ll be making this 2016.

Happy V.Day babes.

Xx.

December 29, 2015December 29, 2015 styledbylyricLeave a comment

Frump-Free Winter

So in case you haven’t stepped outside in a few days, ~~it’s effing freezing~~ Winter is upon us. And I’ve had about 100 women contact me regarding Winter-wear & how to do it right; sans all the bulk & masculinity. Having just taken a trip to Tahoe & survived 9 degree temperatures in ~~relatively~~ cute outfits, I feel as though I’m qualified to fully take this discussion on head first. Not to mention my obsession with being warm & hating a funky outfit…but who needs particulars ;]

Below are my top Winter looks that remain feminine, sexy, & warm without all the fuss. I’ll be breaking down my favorite layering tips & tricks, fabric preferences to keep it cute, & best ways to put it all together. All in hopes to help you make the perfect cold-weather fit for your body type & lifestyle. Let’s get straight to it…

Few things are more annoying than a bulky, heavy knit sweater, even when the weather permits. Opt for a lighter weight one this season & layer it with a soft, high-low piece underneath [complimenting colors, please]. This fit allows mobility all while keeping you plenty warm. Key to this look: size up on the layering pieces. Top it off with a great pair of leather leggings & you’re rocker-chic heaven.

Love the look of boyfriend denim, but don’t know how to incorporate it into your Winter wardrobe? No prob Bob. To add femininity, throw on a great heel [can be a bootie or sandal] & roll the cuffs to give dimension & shape. One of my favorite Winter pieces this year is a side-slit sweater; it gives a little peak of your torso, while still keeping your warm. Add that under a fitted leather jacket & you’ve got the best city-chic fit this side of the Bronx.

Tired of the over-worn beanie look? Us too. Switch out that knit top & pop on a hat instead. It keeps you equally as warm, without the “I just got off the slopes, bro” look. The perfect boho fit: a gorgeous, asymmetrical knit sweater [the brighter the better] & a complimentary pair of fitted denim. Remember, oversized sweater=tighter denim, oversized denim=tighter top. You always want to make sure you’re still giving your body shape, especially when layering. Finish the look with a comfy pair of heeled booties [again, think soft, feminine pieces] & you’ll be the cutest snow bunny that ever was.

Want to remain chic, business-ready, but warm? Totally do-able. Invest in a great camel//soft pink coat this season [preferably wool]. This will be your go-to piece for years. The neutrality of the color will allow for major versatility; denim, white, black, grey…the colors are nearly endless. As for a complete look: pop on a favorite heel, work some casual, comfy denim or pants in, & finish it off with a fine-knit turtleneck or funnel collar. This fit will see you through an entire work day & into a great cocktail night with comfort & ease.

Cute layering seems impossible, no? Wrong. It’s possible; it exists. The key: finding light-weight pieces that compliment one another without adding too much bulk. The best purchase a woman can make for Winter weather is a chambray button-up, as it’s soft, warm, & works effortlessly with nearly any fabric. Top it with a soft, waffle knit sweater [preferably turtleneck or crewneck] & an awesome pair of fitted leather leggings, & you’ve got a classic, comfortable look that keeps the heat in while bar-hopping in the cold Winter air all night.

Afraid to throw some color in during Winter? Don’t be. My favorite way to break up those sad winter neutrals is to hit em with the unexpected. Find a hot pink, mustard yellow, or cobalt blue fold-over turtleneck sweater this season, team it with a great pair of fitted denim [dare I recommend skinnies?!] & top it all off with a super tall pair of pumps. This look is casual but fierce bottled up in one & it will not go unnoticed.

What’s more Wintery than white? Break all the rules this season & pair the best neutral ever created with every sweater you own. Seriously. White denim works with basically everything, particularly if they’re fitted//skinny. White with white, white with tan, white with black, white with blue, white with yellow…am I making myself clear here? However, be sure to add a point of interest; be it a loud shoe, handbag, etc., to add a little madness to the perfection. Your look will be unexpected & so ahead of the game. #takeawalkonthewildside

Whether you’re simply dressing for a day of shopping or heading to a major event, try something new this Winter season. Push the boundaries, make yourself a little uncomfortable in a new style or piece & growwwwww. Your wardrobe needs you, ya know. And so does your creative side.

Happy Styling, mega babes.

Xx.

December 14, 2015December 14, 2015 styledbylyricLeave a comment

NYEverything

I’m backkkkkkkk. Please accept my apologies for falling off the face of the planet for a solid month. To say that my recent happenings have been crazy lately is basically the understatement of the year. However, I’m here & HAVE to break down one of my favorite holidays [as far as styling goes]…NEW YEARS EVE!

This is the one time of year that you can rock costume jewelry, six inch stilettos, sequins, leather & a boa without any judgement, so tell me again why you wouldn’t? #youwouldandyouwill. Today, I’m showcasing my favorite NYE outfits of 2015 so you can stop buying mistletoe & stocking stuffers, && invest in a great pair of leather leggings instead.

Spoiler alert: prepare for major sequins.

A bright blazer & a great pair of sequined short-shorts are the perfect show stoppers for any night out. Keep your mid-section neutral [a simple, fitted cami is ideal] & pop on a great bracelet or watch & you’re NYE ready.
Want to spice it up a bit? Take your blazer to the next level with some fun sequins. Let that be the focal point & keep the rest of your fit minimal; black on black being the best color combo, some understated jewelry & a fun clutch. Add a playful pair of pumps [the higher the better] & you’ll receive free drinks all night long.
plunging jumpsuit Feeling your wild side? Embrace it with a plunging neckline [chest permitting]. A romper, jumper or top with an outrageous neckline is the simplest & sexiest way to own the night. Keep your makeup light, but throw on a major pop of lip stain [my favorites here & here] to draw [some] attention away from your chest & towards your pucker. Keep your footwear appropriate & you’ll be killing the competition all night long. Feeling understated & like it that way? No harm there. Rock a pair of sequin leggings & your favorite blazer && call it good. NYE isn’t about all the fuss of an outfit, but rather the fun you can [& plan to] have in it. Add a few pieces of jewelry [focus on the wrists & neckline here] & a muted pair of heels or flats [pointed-toe always, I say] & you’ll be dancing all night sans the gross blisters.
Like the idea of pants without the casual feel of a blazer? Play it up a bit with a fitted peplum top [be cautious, as this look is difficult on some body types] instead. Swap out the pumps for a heeled sandal & stack some serious bracelets on your wrist. Keep your makeup simple, but your lashes BIG & you’ll be the belle of the ~~bar~~ ball.

If you have the body for it [which I certainly do not], NYE is the perfect time to break out that outrageous romper you’ve been holding on to for the Vegas trip you’ll never actually make happen. Throw on ~~my favorite Fall styling addition~~ a neutral cape or fitted-coat & a few simple pieces of matching jewelry. Keep your locks simple, as well as your footwear–your romper is loud enough, & you’ll feel like you’re at the Bellagio no matter where you end up. Don’t have any wild plans for NYE? No worries. Throw on a comfy pair of leggings [sequined, leather or cotton], your favorite oversized pullover & a bright pair of heels. The chic-nature of your footwear will offset any ~~lazy~~ cozy vibes you put off through your upper half. Feeling a little edgier? Add an oversized blazer, then prepare to watch the shit out of some Carson Daly NYE Live.

New Years Eve is one of the wildest & most celebrated days of the year && with good reason–it’s the kickoff to a new year & a new you. Take this opportunity to play up one last 2015 outfit & go out with a freaking bang. Why? Because you can. Period.

Happy Styling, beautiful babes.

Xx.

November 16, 2015November 16, 2015 styledbylyricLeave a comment

Tighten Up

Why do tights seem like some archaic accessory that our moms wore a hundred years ago? Every time I pull them out of my drawer I cringe a little at their sad, limp shape & wonder, “how can I style you better & not age myself ten years?”

Well, today’s the day.

I’m breaking down my five favorite winter looks incorporating tights, in hopes to eliminate any weirdness we have toward these sheer, wardrobe gems. It’s time to look cute, age appropriate & actually be warm while out in the city having a holiday beverage this season.

Let’s go.

One of my favorite ways to style tights; rock your favorite pair of dress shorts [keep the sex appeal with a pair that hits way above the knee], a fun ankle bootie & a long, seasonally appropriate vest. This look gives your legs amazing shape, showcases each individual piece of the fit & keeps you warm in cold winter months.

Want to own your inner Parisian? Work an extra short, fitted skirt with a pair of deep opaque tights & an extra pointed-toe ankle bootie. Add a pullover sweater & some great bracelets & you’ve got the best day-to-night outfit in all the land.

Ancient fashion rules would cringe over mixing black & brown, but this is one of the best color combos. That being said…take your favorite pair of black tights [distressed or not], throw your favorite winter tunic over them & layer the crap out of it. Add a wool coat with a heavier jacket & maybe even a fun printed scarf. The more layers the merrier. Your fit will be screaming “I’m winter ready, bitches!”

Not ready to put those summer shorts away just yet? We can compromise. Find an ultra sheer pair of tights [black preferred], mix them with your favorite button-up or blouse, add a chunky pair of heels or booties & work those short shorts, girl. The key to this look is mixing grungy pieces with ultra feminine pieces; balance is everything, right?

Staying in or keeping it casual? Grab your favorite flannel tunic & find the heaviest knit tights you can. Add a boyfriend watch or simple gold necklace & you’ve got the perfect homebody outfit this winter. Need to head out? Throw on a pair of rugged lace up boots & a beanie. You’ll be a sexy cross between a lumberjack & a Victoria’s Secret model. Who can’t get with that?

There is a happy medium between the looks our moms used to wear & the great winter looks coming off the streets of New York, San Francisco & Milan. The key is to keep the rest of your outfit current. Tights can look stale & outdated if you’re mixing them with pieces that aren’t comparable, so work your tights into an outfit with an extra short dress or skirt & don’t look back. When else would you be able to show so much of your stems without fear? Exactly. #workitgirl It’s the holidays after all…

Happy Tightening, babes.

Xx.

November 2, 2015November 3, 2015 styledbylyricLeave a comment

Party Problems

Well babes, November is here, which means it’s officially all-things-holiday. This is the one season of the year where sequins, patent leather pumps, opaque tights & champagne make the best of friends & you don’t have to apologize to anyone for it.

Thus, today I’ve chosen my top five male & female looks to rock this 2015 Holiday. Making a statement during these few months is the name of the game. With so many fun prints & colors && textures to work with the options are pretty endless. Plus, you don’t want to be the one in the corner with Barbara from Accounting eating your feelings at this year’s holiday party, right? So it’s time to rework your wardrobe & accessories && make this your best outfit season ever!

Menswear: the looks I’ve chosen work for nearly any body-type & allow my male clients to feel enough creativity to represent their own personal style, but not take away from the professional atmosphere of work//family//co-worker-realted parties. Each piece varies from causal wear to black tie, all dependent upon the invite.

For super casual environments, try a black on black ensemble with a subtle pop of metal or color.
Not ready for a suit? Work a nice slack, a simple button-up & a great pair of loafers.
Event too casual for full suit & tie? Ditch the tie & work in a great shoe & pocket square instead.Time to suit it up, but want to stand out? Try a fun color or print on for size. Black Tie? Opt for true black hues, a vest, & a unique pocket square & tie [at max].

Womenswear: the looks I’ve selected for my ladies today are versatile, flirty & on-trend with the season, yet they allow serious room for creativity & personality. Women get to cheat a bit with party-wear because our looks often fit somewhere neatly between casual & black tie dependent upon the woman’s tastes & preferences. However, each piece chosen has either a unique shape, texture or print & will help kick your holiday season up a solid ten notches & still be invite-appropriate.

Not down with a dress? Try a great blouse & unique skirt. Top with a killer heel & you’ll be show stopping.
Keep it classic & professional with a beautiful burgundy lace dress, but spice it up with some sequins.
Want to keep it comfortable? Rock some amazing sequin pants. Tip: keep everything else simple.Nothing says Carrie Bradshaw like a tulle skirt. Perfect for holiday parties, but always add tights. Need some color in your life? An emerald cocktail dress is my go-to this holiday season. #sogood

So whether you have corporate events planned, your in-laws in town, or you just want a night out with friends & a hot-toddy, this season is the time to try new pieces & looks. Put on those leather chestnut loafers, guys. Purchase those five inch Louboutins, ladies. && get ready to own the shit out of Winter. You’ve worked hard the last ten months…

Happy Partying, party animals.

Xx.

October 12, 2015October 13, 2015 styledbylyricLeave a comment

Sweater Together

Believe it or not, Fall is here. Californian’s be like “suuuuuuure it is…” But in all seriousness, it’s going to get really cold here shortly & one of my favorite but most difficult Fall styles is circling back around. && I want to make sure you babes are wearing this one to it’s full potential.

[The pullover sweater.]

That super cute, but super impossible wardrobe item you have a thousand of but are never quite sure how to style…that’s when I enter. The pullover sweater can be epically bad if not executed properly, so I’ve come up with the Five Sweater Commandments to alleviate any stress related to this item moving forward.

Let’s get to it.

Commandment #1: mix fabrics. With heavy knits & big blocked stitching, sweaters can quickly become terribly masculine, so adding a smidge of lace is the perfect feminine touch. Take your outfit to the next level with some of my favorite lace pieces here.

Commandment #2: add a layer. Some of my favorite wardrobe additions this Fall are all these beautiful trenches & coats showing up everywhere. [It’s like designers finally figured it out.] They add dimension to any outfit & kick up the class & sophistication. Pair a neutral-toned sweater, a statement coat & a great necklace…you’ve got Fall nailed. Next level: try a cape.

Commandment #3: never fear the cowl neck. The key to a great pullover look is fit & function. A cowl neckline flows effortlessly & adds a stylized element to a look that takes you from bargain shopper to runway walker in seconds. Pair it with a great pencil skirt or pair of denim & heels, && you’re set.

Commandment #4: leather always. The best partner to a big bulky pullover is a sexy, skin tight pair of cropped [faux] leather pants. They make your stems look thin & sleek, & add an edgy element to an otherwise conservative look. Some of my favorite pairs here & here. Key: wear this outfit on chilly days//nights #sweatingisntcute

Commandment #5: know when less is more. Sometimes a pullover calls for a big statement necklace & other times it needs nothing at all. To know the difference: identify how loud your sweater is [color, fit, neckline, knit, stitching, etc.] & work from small drop necklaces to heavier layered pieces & determine what look you like best. Tip: the thicker the knit, the less likely it needs a necklace.

These commandments are meant to guide not dictate. You & only you know what works best for your body & style, but tips & tricks are always helpful, especially when dealing with a tricky wardrobe item like sweaters. Start trying new sizes & fits, & work your outfits to a place where you feel confident & sexy…because that’s the entire reason we invest in these fabrics in the first place, right?

Happy styling, babes.

Xx.

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.

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 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.

November 17, 2014October 21, 2021 styledbylyric2 Comments

Be Jeweled.

Having had about a hundred people compliment//question//touch my stackable, hammered, gold band rings throughout the past few weeks, I’ve decided it’s time to do a post on one of my absolute favorite jewelry staples in my wardrobe; delicate jewels.

Although I can’t share with you the woman who makes mine, because she’s an amazing gypsy-goddess that travels all over the world selling her pieces & only comes to Berkeley a few times a year with her 30 inches of stick straight, amazing, grey locks…I can share with you some seriously swoon-worthy jewelry brands that I’ve been pining over lately.

Deal? Deal.

Chisel & Chain: Angela Herrera’s designs are absolute insanity; they’re so beyond their years, so unique & seriously sexy. She mixes gold with gemstones & textures that you couldn’t even imagine. Not to mention she’s from one of my most favorite cities in the world [Encinitas, Ca]. Check her pieces & try not to go totally broke. I dare you.

Torch Light Jewelry: A Santa Barbara based brand, these babes do it all; leather goods, silver, gold, & accessories. Founder, Louisa Kimble is inspired by mystic, vagabond style & seems limitless with her designs. Their Sundown collection is my absolute favorite [I think I’ll take it all, please], but their Lyra collection takes a strong second place. Their entire website is a designers dream; it’s clean, organized & showcases each & every one of their amazing pieces. Just go. Now. Seriously, go.

Hunter Gatherer Jewelry: Australia is hitting the jewelry game hard lately & this amazing brand is no different. Renée creates amazing jewels for gypsy souls. Her pieces hold authenticity like nothing I have ever seen before & her pricing is incredibly reasonable. I challenge you to not get completely lost in her site…because you will. I promise.

Amarilo Jewelry: Ali Heiss’ LA based designs are probably my favorite of them all. Her concepts are delicate but strong, tough but sweet & simple but incredibly unique. She works with 14kt gold, Argentium sterling silver, & high quality gemstones. My absolute favorite piece in her current collection is the Amelia Wrap Ring. It is so chic & goes with literally everything. Not to mention, her Stackbook on the website will have you drooling. Go get yourself a few pieces of this goddesses work before it’s all gone. I mean hello, Christmas is coming soon.

With the holiday’s fast approaching, you deserve a new piece [or twelve] for all the parties you’ll be attending. Not to mention, each of these beautiful designs would make perfect Christmas presents for your girlfriends or loved ones. Not sayin…just sayin.

Happy Shopping & Happy Holidays, babefriends. Thanks for being wonderful.

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.

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.