Rain, Rain, Come Again

I am learning many things since my recent relocation to the East Coast. One of which is that you should have an umbrella with you all the time. At all times. All the time. No exceptions. It rains here a lot. You might say it rains all the time.

The good news is, while the prim and proper businessmen of D.C. have to carry big, black, boring umbrellas, I can add a little flair with my rain protection. And so can you. Check out these adorable options.

If you want to blend in with what's happening above your head, try this rain drop patterned umbrella from umbrellas.net.

Or if you want to offset the gray skies, try these bright and bold stripes, also from umbrellas.net.



For a little old-fashioned flair, check out these custom umbrellas from signaturebella.com. The pagoda-style canopies have just the right amount of vintage flair, and the handles come separately, so you can mix and match all you want.





And if you want a better view of what's coming down, maybe one of these clear options will appeal to you, both from umbrellas.com. (A little rain and a little love? Yes, please!)

With one of these in your hand, you'll be begging the rain to stay.

And, around here at least, the rain just might oblige.

Use Your Head

I went to see a dinner theater performance of "High School Musical" last night. (Yes, you read that right. And no, it's not really any good without Zac Efron. And yes, saying that makes me feel a little creepy.)

Anyway.

You know that song, "Get Your Head in the Game?" Well, it got me to thinking about heads, and what sort of game they should be in (stick with me, everyone) and that brings me to... headbands!

Voila!

Luckily, one of our totally fabu Shabby Apple interns, Kate, had her head in the same place (that place being the game. Is this getting old?) and put together this totally fabu article all about this year's hottest head-gear trends.

So, get your head in the game and read away! (That was the last one. I promise.)

It seemed the headband might be headed towards fashion extinction.

Headbands came in with a bang (or, shall we say, with bangs. Get it? Joke!) in the mid-2000s with outlets from high-end department stores and speciality boutiques to Target and Claire's carrying the favored hair accessory in wide patent leather, stripes, polka dots and everything in between. Soon, nearly every retail clothing store in the book was carrying headbands, and suddenly what was once hip and cutting edge became expected and overly familiar. Nothing but another headband.

Had this hair accessory reached its carrying capacity in the world of fashion? Would this item’s overabundance lead to the wiping out of the entire headband population?

Such a grim outlook on the headband’s future has been decisively refuted by recent innovations and alterations. In fact, spring 2009 has seen such a complete reworking of the headband’s basic makeup, the season seems to offer the gift of a totally new hair accessory rather than a slightly modified regurgitation of an old staple.

For starters, we have the “headwrap” variation. With one or two bands crossing from the back of the head across the forehead rather than over the scalp, this take on the headband expresses a casual hippie look. Some are thin elastic bands embellished with small stones or braiding. Shabby Apple has also taken up the trend. Our women's accessories include headwraps made of thick and colorful bands of fabric, adorned with whimsical flowers. (You can't say no to whimsy!)


{Like this look? Try Urban Outfitters.}
{Like this look? Try Shabby Apple.}

The “new headband” for spring also appears in ultra-feminine varieties, including skinny headbands garnished with soft petals or bows fluttering near the ear of the wearer and headbands in soft colors, such as pink, and covered in soft materials, sich as satin and chiffon.


{Like this look? Try J. Crew.}

Another innovative take on the headband for spring expresses a vintage, 1920s flair. Colorful feathers decorating headbands call to mind the retro style of the flapper, but you don't have to travel back in time to get them. In fact, you only have to travel as far back as the Shabby Apple Web site for a fantastic collection to get you started.


{Like this look? Try Urban Outfitters.}


{Like this look? Try Shabby Apple.}

So, whether in a hippie headwrap, a girly, flowered skinny band, or a feather-embellished flapper style, the new headbands of spring 2009 can make any look head and shoulders above the rest. (Can you stand the hilarity?)

Looks like headbands might be here to stay after all.

Beach Bunny Bingo

I am just going to put it out there that the beach is probably one of the Top Five most romantic places to fall in love. I am not speaking from personal experience, mind you. I just have a feeling.

The only catch being that you want to look your best while you are falling in love, and looking your best on the beach can be tricky. Unless, that is, the "I didn't shower this morning and just spent half an hour in salt water" look is your best look. But I doubt that it is. I just have a feeling.

There is no perfect solution, but these tips might help speed along your own summer lovin'. You can thank me by naming your first-born child after me. It seems only fair.


For starters, get yourself a trendy suit. One-shouldered suits are hot (or should I say h-o-t-t) this season, as are cut-out bikinis. One-piece cut-outs are a nice compromise if you only want to give away a little peek.

{Photo courtesy of fashionsing.com}

If you are looking for a printed suit, leave the dainty stuff behind and go for bold graphic stripes, colorful paisley or some other stand-out pattern instead. Celebrities are sporting eye-popping hippie-style prints up and down all kinds of coasts.

{Photo courtesy of Glamour Magazine}

This summer is also a great time to experiment with the classic black suit. A saucy cut-out bikini or one-piece is a great option. Or look for basic black suits with some non-basic embellishments such as ring details, a flattering halter top or retro-cut bottoms.

{Photo courtesy of Glamour Magazine}

Next, pick out some swimwear accessories. Remember, that suit isn't just for swimming. (And, frankly, might not be for swimming at all.) Our goal is romance here. And sheer cover-ups, one hot trend for this hot season, have romance written all over them.

{Photo courtesy of fashionsing.com}

Or, you can adapt a non-beach-related trend, such as bohemian chic, and take it to the sand.

{Photo courtesy of fashionsing.com}

Short shorts are also an emerging cover-up trend. Try some sporty shorts or some edgy denim cut-offs. They're the perfect way to get some coverage without leaving everything to the imagination. (If you've got it, flaunt it. Right, ladies?!)


{Photo courtesy of Glamour Magazine}

Short dresses, long shirts and robes are also good cover-up options for this summer.

For the finishing touches, think about a beach bag with a large graphic print or design (again, anything retro is a safe bet this season), and some kind of sun hat. My favorites are straw, in either the floppy or cowboy varieties. A good hat will cover your ocean hair, protect your beautiful faces and make you just the right amount of straight-up adorable.

And then true love can't help but find you seaside.

Planning to hit the beach this summer?

What is your must-have oceanside accessory?

Brooch-ing the Subject

I don't like to judge, but I saw a woman wearing a brooch the other day and it looked ridiculous.

It looked ridiculous because it was a brooch of a friendly bug of some kind, like a little dragon fly or something, and she had it pinned to her shoulder. That's right. Pinned right to the top of her shoulder, as if it had just landed there and decided to stay. But it didn't look whimsical and cute. It looked ridiculous. (Have I mentioned that already?)

So, I got to thinking. How can you wear a brooch creatively? Because perched on your shoulder can't be right. But I have a lovely collection of shiny, vintage brooches from my mother and grandmother and I would love to use them more, while also avoiding the fate of this poor woman. And I bet you would, too.

Can you guess what's coming next?

It's tips! Tips are coming next!

1. Instead of pinning a brooch to your lapel, pin it to a chain and wear it as a pendant. You can also turn brooches into bracelets by attaching them to a cloth wrist cuff (homemade is fine.)

{image from http://www.robincamille.com/}

2. If you are going out for a fancy night on the town (as I am sure you all have hot dates every night of the week), use some bobby pins to attach a blingy brooch to your updo, maybe nestled in a bed of messy curls, as a hairpin in a sleek bob or even attached to the side of a cloth or elastic headband.

{image from http://www.liveweddings.com/}

3. Got a dress that doesn't fit quite right? Gather the extra fabric (under the bust is a great place to do this), and secure it with a large, striking brooch. I have also used brooches to spice up the waistlines of dresses that fit. Other non-traditional placements include at the V of a sweater or shirt, or higher up on the shoulder of a sleeveless blouse or dress. (But, remember, not actually on the shoulder. Because that looks, say it with me, ridiculous.)

4. Another trick I love is using a large, usually round-ish brooch to cover up an ugly button or other closure on a cardigan or shrug. If you have a cover-up with no button at all and you want a makeshift closure, a brooch also comes in handy.

5. You can also ditch the clothes all together and use a brooch to add a little class and bling to an evening bag, a satin belt, a hat or a scarf.

{image from http://www.butterfliesandhurricanes.co.uk/}

6. Also, don't feel like you can only wear one statement brooch at a time. If you have several smaller pins, bunch them together on your lapel or around the neckline of a simple dress or blouse for a new twist on an old favorite.

{image from http://www.jckonline.com/}

Are you ready to pin one on?
What are your favorite tricks for getting the most bang out of your brooch-y bling?

And A Dash of Retro

My mama was in town over the weekend and we decided to tackle a sewing project while she was here. I will not get into the particulars of whether or not this was a good idea, but I will tell you that said sewing project yielded the most delicious retro-style apron, and I have decided that retro-style aprons are totally the new black! Or something like that.

Of course, we all know the practical benefits of aprons. For one thing, they save your darling clothes from being ruined by cooking-time messes such as  flying powdered sugar (or whatever it is that happens to fly around your kitchen). But retro aprons give you so much more. In addition to the necessary kitchen protection, they also add a dash of whimsy and a pinch of adorable to your ensemble, instead of drowning you in frumpy homemaker garb. And, who wouldn't be more excited to roll their sleeves up in the usually mundane kitchen if it meant tying on a charming apron? Well, not me. That's for sure.

If you are a skilled domestic diva, making your own apron is definitely an option. (I used a vintage handkerchief that says, "Feeling Lucky Cowboy?" on mine, and that is sass you just can't buy in a store.) But, if you do go the retail road, here are some suggestions.

You can go dotty, striped or patriotic with these sweet cover-ups from Carolyn's Kitchen. (These sweeties don't even need clothes underneath. Oo-la-la!)

This sweet pink number from Cupcake Provocateur would make the perfect hostess gift. Or, just might turn you into the perfect hostess. I love, love, love the panels and piping.

And this handmade retro-style apron from Etsy shop Boojiboo has it all: sweetheart neckline, circle skirt, fitted bust. Could there be a more flattering accessory? (Answer: no.)

Can't wait to get into the kitchen with one of these confections, can you?

And, am I the only one craving a cupcake now? (Mmm... sprinkles...)

Bathing Beauty

It's a little hard to believe since I am still wearing long sleeves and multiple pairs of socks, but I am already getting bombarded with e-mails about spring swimwear lines. That's right, swimsuit season is almost upon us! And, may I just say, I am loving this new trend of retro swimming suits? I may? Well, thank you kindly. I am loving this new trend of retro swimming suits.

For one thing, they make one-pieces hip again, which is good news for those of us looking for more coverage rather than less. I am especially digging the styles with a lower cut leg. I've got a little junk in the trunk, you know, and I don't need everyone seeing all of it.

But, more than that, these suits are just plain adorable! I adore the flirty ruffles, the old-school prints and the overall classiness. A quick online search will probably bring up dozens and dozens of options, but here are some of my recent favorites.

I just can't get enough of these cheery polka dots.



The ruching and halter top give this retro throwback black swimsuit just the right amount of sass.



If you're looking for something that really makes a statement try this boldly striped suit, just the right mix and daring and demure.


Never mind that I still have to sleep with a heating pad, perfect sunny days by the pool or the waves will be here soon enough, and I think we all deserve a smashing new suit to celebrate. Don't you?

And please, tell us.

What are your must-have features in that perfect swimsuit?

Fly Girl

{BCBG Max Azaria cardigan from Macys.com}

For the past few months I have been obsessing over flyaway cardigans. I love them. I can't really say why, exactly. Maybe it's the creative, hipper twist on an old favorite. Maybe it's that they are so flattering on everyone. Maybe it's because flyaway cardigans are "trendy," to be sure, but I don't think they'll ever actually be out of style. Or maybe it's because Little J. was wearing a totally stylin' striped flyaway cardigan with an edgy rock T-shirt a few episodes ago on "Gossip Girl" and I wanted to look just like that. All the time. Urban. Effortless. Totally cool.

So, I finally went and got a few flyaway cardigans of my own. (One awesome thing ab0ut a down economy is that I don't feel guilty about shopping anymore. It's my patriotic duty!) I think the thing I really do love most about this particular wardrobe item is the versatility. Throw it over a tank or a T-shirt and jeans for flawless weekend casual, pair it with a pencil skirt and a wide belt for office chic, or put it over a summer dress to get some mileage out of off-season clothes. The options are really endless.

And the styles are, too. Check out Express.com for some bold stripes, or here for a slightly softer flyaway cardigan design, or here for a heavier, more textured sweater.

Then tell us, have you caught the flyaway fever?

And what is your favorite way to wear your new wardrobe staple?

Tie One On

{Image from moeys.net}



Whether you live in cold weather (I feel your pain) or warm weather (I hate you), temperatures are bound to drop some time, and when they do, a nice scarf is the perfect accessory to keep you feeling warm and looking good.

And scarves aren't just for outerwear anymore either. A lighter-weight scarf in a trendy pattern (I hear buffalo plaid is in) or a unique fabric (knit! sparkly!) is the perfect accent to a graphic T-shirt or a solid-colored blouse.

Now, if you are like me (and I hope at least one of you is), wearing a trendy fashion scarf is a sort of intimidating proposition. I am always afraid I will look, well ridiculous. But, Shabby Apple friends, never fear! Follow these simple guidelines (with examples set by our celebrity friends!) and you'll look flawless every time.

Do: Choose a classic monochromatic look.

Tone on tone outfits plus scarf look best with neutrals, such as black, navy, camel and cream. Up your sophistication, and keep your outfit from veering to boring, by mixing fabrics, including satin, velvet and wool. {Image by Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images}

Don't: Think a scarf can save a bad outfit.

If it looks bad without a scarf, it won't look any better with one. Another hint: save skinny scarves for more fitted tops and jackets.

Do: Wear a flattering color next to your face.

If you wouldn't buy a chartreuse shirt or sweater, you probably shouldn't buy a chartreuse scarf either. But a flattering pop of color can add excitement to a fluffy winter coat.

Don't: Overwhelm your look with a scarf.

If people feel like they need to stop your scarf from choking you, it's probably too big and too knotted. And what is the point of putting on a shirt at all if you are just going to cover it with an enormous scarf? Instead of going for a huge knot at your throat, drape longer scarves, or tie them with a loose not further down. {Image by Amy Sussman/Getty Images}

Do: Make a scarf your spotlight accessory.

A simple scarf in an elegant fabric, such as pashmina or cashmere, is a perfect winter substitute for showy jewelry. Choose a bold, clean color that contrasts nicely with the rest of your ensemble for a winning evening look.

Don't: Throw on a scarf as an afterthought.

You can't just toss on a polka-dot scarf with a cocktail dress and expect anyone to think you put a lot of thought into it. Make sure the style of your scarf matches the tone of the rest of your outfit. And, if the scarf takes away instead of adding, skip it. Just because scarves are stylish doesn't mean they look good all the time.

Do: Wear a scarf for dressy events.

A broad scarf in a classy color, such as red, and a classy fabric, such as pashmina, can add color and warmth to more formal ensembles. Wrap a longer scarf loosely around your neck once and let the ends hang down, or drape a scarf around your shoulders and toss the ends over either side. Use a sparkling decorative brooch to keep it in place. {Image by Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images}

Don't: Overaccessorize.

Put a floppy hat with a long scarf and a pair of sunglasses, and you'll look more like a fugitive than a fashion-plate. Remember that there is such a thing as too much of a good thing, and make sure your accessories are not competing with eachother. (Also, if a hat and a scarf got in a fight, who do you think would win?)

Do: Try a print scarf.

The right pattern can set of your outfit perfectly. For example, a colorful plaid is the perfect compliment to a muted pea coat. And a lighter-weight scarf with a trendy pattern is a great way to spice up a simple black or white T-shirt.

Now, once you have the perfect scarf picked out, there are as many ways to tie it up or twist it around as there are people reading this blog post. (And, by that I mean a lot. There are a lot of you reading this blog post, right?) For example, do you want to wear a scarf around your head? As a belt? Under a coat? If you are looking for a little inspiration, here are some pointers on how to tie a scarf.

Good luck!

And tell us, is a scarf one of your go-to winter accessories?

That's Tight

I came across this image on The Sartorialist earlier today, and was reminded how much I love boldly colored and patterned tights. In fact, I am wearing bright pink, knit tights as we speak and I'm not going to lie. They look pretty hot.

Bright and patterned hosiery made a scene on the runways this season and, unlike mile-high hats or dresses with huge pieces cut out, this is one trend that translates into real-life as well. Not to mention that bright colors, bold stripes and funky patterns are a great way to warm up the dreary winter months and your little leggies.

Here are a few tips to help you put your best stockinged foot forward. 

Leg up

Keep your clothes simple and let your tights take center stage. For example, if you're wearing tights with a geometric pattern, don't wear clothes with a busy pattern as well. If you're feeling adventurous and want to mix subtler patterns and textures, stick with solid colored shoes and go with a head-to-toe monochromatic color scheme. {'Heather Hip' Diamond Tights from Nordstrom}

Mute button

If you are afraid you can't pull off some of the season's more outrageous colors, such as lime green or fuchsia, you can still follow the trend but keep a lid on it, with more muted colors such as plum or khaki. 

Left to the Imagination

Another way to ease yourself into a bold print or pattern is to just show a little glimpse. Pair an eye-catching geometric design with a skirt and boots and let the pattern fill the gap, without overwhelming you or your outfit. 

Wear the Pants

Who said hosiery always has to go under skirts? The season's hottest colors and patterns are available in thigh-high, knee-high and ankle-high options as well and can be just as striking when paired with pants, especially if you finish off the look with a killer pair of shoes. Round-toed shoes, court shoes, sling-backs and strappy sandals add a little vavoom and let the colors and patterns show through. {Image from Nordstrom.com}

Layer Up

Why only wear one trend when you can wear two? If you are looking to pack a punch in both color and texture, layer a pair of fishnets over a pair of colored opaque tights for a unique, runway worthy look.

And that's not all! Check out this photo slideshow from About.com for more hints on how to get the most out of every kind of hosiery.

Then tell us: what's keeping your legs warm this winter?

Coats on Top

The first snow flew here in Utah earlier this week, and I think it is safe to say winter has arrived. There are very few things I like about winter. Hot chocolate and staying inside watching TV online are some of them. Also, finding money in the pockets of winter clothes I haven't worn in months is always a bonus. (I found $6 this week. Score!) And, I am not ashamed to confess a deep and abiding love of winter coats. I actually get pretty excited to break my wool and down outerwear out of storage. So, whether you love winter or not, here are some tips to help you pick a coat that will keep you happy all the cold season long.

Before You Buy

Before you even start looking for a new winter coat, there are a few questions you should answer.

How much money do you want to spend? A winter coat is worth investing a little cash, since you'll probably be wearing it for many seasons to come, but coats come in a variety of prices, so set a budget and only look at coats within that range.

What level of warmth will be necessary? Do you walk a lot in the winter? Drive? Take public transportation? Determining how much time you spend outside in the winter months will help you decide how warm your coat needs to be.

What function will the coat fulfill? Are you looking for a casual coat or a career coat? A coat you can ski in or a coat you can wear on a date? (Unless you are going on a ski date. I don't do such things, so I have no advice for you there.)

Will this be your only coat or will you be able to have more than one? If your budget, and your closet, can accommodate more than one winter coat, you can go for one traditional selection and one more funky and fun. If you're just getting one winter coat, versatility is best. Ideally, every wardrobe should have an outwear coat and a knee-length coat.

Have a Looksie

You'll want to start in stores that have a decent coat selection. Department stores and other large clothing retailers should have a wide variety of styles and colors. Look for coats that are high-quality fabrics, with lining that is thick but not bulky. Other extras to look for include inner pockets, fleece hand pockets and hoods for extra warmth.

The length of your new winter coat will be determined largely by its end use, but choosing a coat length that is flattering to your body type is also crucial. If you're tall, you can generally handle any silhouette. Just make sure knee-length coats are not too short, and hit just at the top of the knee. If you have wide hips, tailored, straight lines are the most flattering. Stay away from wide-belted silhouettes and full skirts. Three-quarter length jackets are better than short jackets, which tend to cut your body right in half. (If it's a magic show, cutting your body in half is pretty cool. If it's fashion, not that cool.) The same advice holds if you're short. Also, be sure that longer coats hit right at your knee. Coats that are too long can overwhelm smaller frames. If you have a large bust you want to minimize, share the wealth! Also, stay away from puffy, short jackets that accentuate the upper torso, and baby doll and empire styles that add volume from the bust down.

Also, this might seem like a no-brainer, but be sure to actually try on the coat before you buy it. It should not feel bulky, and you should be able to zip it up or button it easily. If you're going with a more fitted style, be sure there is still plenty of room for layers underneath.

Trends on Top

For those of you looking for a slighly edgier winter look, here are some hot trends warming up this season. (Get it? Hot trends? Warming up? I know, the wit is overwhelming.) Anyway. Back to hot trends.

Colors that Pop: Everyone needs a neutral and versatile winter coat, but bright colors are in this season in a big way. Look for rich shades of red and purple with berry variations, including raspberry, blueberry and shades of pink and maroon. Solid colors still allow for some versatility and bold accessorizing.

Biker Chic: This might not be a very good option for our vegan friends (sorry, Natalie Portman), but leather jackets are everywhere this season. Pair a biker jacket with feminine, floral prints for a little contrast, or throw it over a turtleneck sweater and add some leather boots for an all-day weekend outfit.

Details, Details, Details: Dramatic detailing around the sleeves and collar spices up even a simple style or color. One of the most frequently used fabrics for detailing is fur (or faux fur for our animal loving friends), for oversized fur cuffs and collars. High, face-framing architectural colllars will also keep you warm and stylish. Other details to watch for include big buttons, large yokes or lapels, cowl necks and other statement collars, belts and piping.




Military Might: The military jacket trend started several seasons ago, but it still going strong. The clean and polished look of these coats means they can be worn anywhere from the office to a night out on the town. Keep your eyes peeled for well-cut coats in dark, rich fabrics with brass buttons, braiding and other interesting detailing. Salute!

Who else is excited to bundle up?

Tell us about the winter coat feature that keeps you happy all winter long.

Polishing It Off

When we talk and think about fashion (which is probably more often than not, right girls?), we are usually talking and thinking about clothes, but there is so much more to looking and feeling great.

For instance, how many of you work at a computer and spend all day looking down at your chipped, jagged, unpolished nails? (I do! I do!) A flattering nail shape and the latest, greatest shade on those fingertips is a quick, feminine and inexpensive way to finish off an outfit and keep up with the trends of the season , without worrying about how to keep up with your credit card payments.

Nail polish trends change just like shoes, belts and dresses, so keep reading to find out what should be on your fingers and toes this fall.

Just Plum-my 

Purple is one of this season's most popular colors for clothing, and nails are no different. Save your bright purples and lavendars for next Spring, and instead try a deeper shade like plum, aubergine or violet. Pair your dramatic nails with a classic black dress, or use them to help transition some of your summer favorites, like this dress, into fall.

More chocolate, please!

A few seasons past saw fashionistas from Hollywood to Houston to Hartford sporting edgy black nails. This year, put a twist on that trend with chocolate brown nails instead. Brown nails have a more classic look, and the earth tone is a great way to get into the fall spirit. For brown polish, rounded square nails that extend just past the finger, and a flirty fall frock, are best. 

Heavy Metal

Another big trend this autumn is metallics. Metallics can be broken into three shade families: champagne and bronze; pewter; and silver. You can never go wrong with the gold standard,but but we've all been there and seen that. Switch up your finger-game with a gutsy copper instead. Warm and darker skin tones should stick to champagne & bronze shades, while cooler skin tones are more suited to silver. And anyone can paint on a little pewter since it is a mix of copper and tin. Metallic shades are particularly good for those of us who have trouble maintaining a manicure (I do! I do!), because they adhere to nails better than their shimmerless counterparts. Use some precious metals (on your nails, that is) to complement a shiny party dress or vampy cocktail dress.

Going Grey

You might not want it in your hair, but grey was a major trend on this fall's runways, and it's made its way to nails as well. You can go anywhere from a soft grey to a bold gunmetal, and grey polish with a metallic twist is a great way to combine two trends into one. Short, well-manicured nails painted a soft grey are a perfect backdrop for a boldly patterned dress like this, or the perfect complement to a simply sophisticated dress as well.

Think you can nail it? 

What polish trend are you excited to try out this season?